~16 Fr:Operation Last Rites – Prologue
"Long before time and existence ever occurred, light and shadow fought one another as energy. Realizing that the darkness cannot go away, the light used its special power to create a phenomenon later known as the "Big Bang", creating all universes and their respective timelines, alternate realms and pocket dimensions. That light took on a physical form…and created a world and eventually a city to allow stories of all time be written…" Deidi Firestone, Free! ESC Book 4: Triad Vengeful Entourage
Storyline B: Our Free!
As Albert was the only person from Iwamara to get the bronze medal, the other three watched from the hallway before heading back to the base.
"Was this really a good idea?" Kaede asked, "Preserving ourselves for that?"
"But this wasn't like all an act," Kyle answered, "We did throw all our efforts."
"I guess that means we have to make sure all of us are ready for what is yet to come," Haruka said.
"At least he won't feel alone like that," Kyle agreed.
As they made their way back to the room, they saw Alex staring outside from one of the massive windows. Kyle nodded to them and made his way over. Alex turned to him and hugged him with tears.
"Kyle…I'm so sorry," he said.
"Sandro…" he whispered, "We did our best. At least one of us made it this far."
"Yeah but…" Alex looks at his hair and his eyes, "Was I really being too optimistic again?"
"It's okay to let it happen sometimes," Kyle replied, "But this is a good reminder that life goes on…among other things."
Alex nodded as they released the hug before adding, "I think after all what has happened…just seeing you here and alive is enough."
"I have faced many losses in swimming," Haruka revealed, "Faced barriers and trying to adapt to change."
"I think most of us say that we do," Kaede shrugged before looking at Alex, "Listen. Just because you didn't get past the preliminaries does NOT make you less of a swimmer than anyone, even us. We know you have grown. Anyway, that's the most pep talk you'll ever get from me. But get yourself ready tonight."
"E-eh?" Alex looks at him suddenly, "A-are you…?"
"Yeah," Kaede implied, "Let's say two birds have told me about your strife and commissioned me to get you to keep going. 100m of free this evening."
"And this is all…approved?" Alex tilts his head.
"Don't worry about that," Kaede answered, "Face me tonight and we go on from there."
Makoto, Momotarou, and Hiyori were changing to get ready for the finals when Sousuke quickly arrived at the scene.
"Anything?" Hiyori asked.
Sousuke shook his head, "It's all legit."
"H-Haru…" Makoto lowered his head a little.
"We'll have our time to care for our teammates," Hiyori said, "I'm not going to lose this race."
"Neither will I," Sousuke nodded.
"Let's make this our best shot," Momotarou agreed as they each made a square fist bump.
I'll avenge you, Aoba, Momo thought, I know how much this tournament meant for you too.
Back at the stadium deck, the audience went back and forth between events. With the news about the freestyle finally completed, it was already over social media. Kotetsu took this time to go look for Kaede while Apollo held the fort here with the Articorans.
"A Lha'lian swimmer, Yousef Jaque won first and the gold," Articora!Alex read on the iPad tablet, "And the second-place winner was from here in Neo Sportsbrooke, Daryll Mills."
"I mean it's good that we have allowed a bit of diversity," Articora!Rei agreed, "But no doubt this is going to be challenging and even more difficult as the years go."
"Records are meant to be broken," Apollo said, "Like evolutionary changes."
"But doesn't that mean with evolutionary change, people will forget?" Romio asked.
"I'm sure in due time, the past will be forgotten and doomed to repeat," he answered, "That's why light and darkness are entwined like this."
"Such intense racing," Misaki said, "I hope one day…we get here."
"It'll be a long road for us ahead," Kaoru agreed.
The other sports teams were busy practicing for their upcoming tournaments when they heard about the freestyle finals. Some of them were shocked, others were saddened, more in disbelief.
But it was a reminder indeed, that a loss and a win are also a part of life. A small bunch of the different teams were hanging outside of the venue to see the medalist for the freestyle swim taking place.
"A loss does not always signify the end," Masaki looks at Minato, "Rather, a beginning of something new."
"I wonder if it's because the Greatest Light exhausted everything," Minato said.
"What makes you think that?" Masaki asked.
"You know what I'm talking about," he replied, "The swimmers have sacrificed everything to make this future happen."
"Eh?" Yoichi hears about the last part, "What sacrifice?"
"Something about the Swimming Guardians being superheroes," Sae shrugged.
"The Legend of the Magic Six has span a story of hope and life but it was twisted and turned to fear and hatred," Masaki looks at the soccer folks, "And now that the Final Reckoning concluded…the magic involved paid a huge price."
Mizu Temple, Iwamara
The nine Mizu Gods reflected in meditation on all what has happened with The Final Reckoning. Indeed, it was a battle that forever reshaped the destiny of countless lives. But the confusing part was that, why did they still exist? All the magic used in the final battle unleashed something…but what?
Marotta opened his eyes and walked over to the sacred lake to try to figure out what happened back at the Edge of the Omniverse. Once again, the waters denied this memory to resurface. However, a theory popped in his molecular existence…he turned to see the others.
"I think I might know what happened," he said.
"Could it explain the reasons why our human selves aren't being as fabulous?" Hazuki grumbled.
Ryugazaki slapped him behind the head and answers, "Go on."
"The only possible explanation to all this is that…the magic in them…is gone," Marotta speculated, "The Final Incantation must have been used."
"So, they can't transform?" Tachibana asked.
"No," Matsuoka replied, "Which explains also…on how they appear to not remember the Final Reckoning…like a traumatic event locked away."
"No, I think they do remember still," Nanase said, "But they're too focused on the Olympics to the point that this is their reality now. They moved on."
"But that doesn't make sense," Ghaac replied, "If we were able to transport our human selves to visit here, then…?"
"Wait on that, Ghaac," Ceccon paused, "Our humans don't have any more magic either. It's like we're their vessel but they too can't transform."
"But that still doesn't explain on the fate of Chaos and Cosmos…or even Kronos to that extent," Mikoshiba said.
"It's no doubt the laws of magic have been altered or even erased for the humans," Yamazaki speculated.
"Maybe…things will work out well in the end," Marotta answered, "Even now…I can tell something beautiful will be happening…in less than two days."
Unknown Place…Far into the Future…
The author watched as the king was struggling in a bath of energy swirling around him, still searching for the answer. It had been nearly a day since exploring the truth about the past. Seeing this again caused him to panic, worried that this endless obsession was going to eat his existence.
"WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON!?" the other man shouted as the author turned to him.
"Have faith," the author spoke, "He's gaining his answer."
"The darkness outside is getting worse by the minute," the other king spoke, "Why must he keep dwelling about this?"
"I don't believe he has regrets," the author answered, "Look at the energy on him. You see?"
The king looked at his husband still swarming with light and hope. But why?
"Tell me, why is my husband doing this?" Neo King Odysseus spoke.
"He's trying to remember what happened back then…The Final Reckoning…as well as The Last Race," the author revealed.
"T-The Last Race…wait you don't mean!" the king gasped.
Present Time:
Alex and Kyle sat back down in the other room with the other swimmers as the 100-meter backstroke FINALS were about to start. Sousuke, Momotarou, Makoto and Hiyori were in this one. They all prayed for at least two of them to make a win and avenge the freestyle swimmers.
At that same moment, Alex felt his heartbeat again before seeing the Koi Carp floating in front of him. He reached out to touch it finally as it felt soft and fragile. For a second…
His mind flashed to varying visions, but he had no idea what was happening…from a massive crystal-like castle with two married men standing side by side. They were then accompanied by three cloaked beings with each possessing a light, dark, and some third kind of magic.
"S-Sandro?!" Kyle shook him back to reality.
"Uh, hey," he jolted back, "Didn't you see something floating in front of me?"
"Ummm no?" Kyle looked confused.
They TV finally showed the swimmers readied in the water…
"Take Your Marks…"
"BEEP!"
"MOMO-KUN! SOUSUKE-SENPAIII!" Ai shouted as he cheered the orange-haired man onwards.
"Win this, Otter!" Aoba cried out.
"Mako-chaaann!" Nagisa answered.
"Hiyori, go!" Ikuya added.
The four were already approaching the wall as the eight finalists were reaching their arms out to the sky while keeping an eye on the flag signaling. For a moment, Sousuke felt a parallel reality in which he too was also swimming the backstroke. Hiyori concentrated on the timing of when to make the flip.
Makoto could also feel the ease of happiness of making it here as Momotarou was anticipating getting at least one of the medals. Their hearts were racing like the reality they were in.
All of them made the flip turn and progressed the way back. Sousuke, Makoto and Hiyori were certainly neck to neck with Momotarou trying to get past one of them. The timing was certainly close…
Seijuurou watched this from the bleachers with Isuzu as they cheered him on likewise. It was quite a landmark for this family to have made this far.
"Makoto…" Haruka watched the screen quietly, hoping to see him win something.
"He'll make it," Rin reassured him, "Him and Sousuke."
"Don't forget Hiyori too," Ikuya said, "Those three are certainly there."
Finally, the hands reached the wall as the race concluded with the following:
2nd – Makoto
3rd – Sousuke
4th – Hiyori
5th – Momotarou
"Oh my goodness!" Nagisa gasped.
"Makoto-senpai…" Rei smiled.
"That was still an intense finale," Alex said, "Was it another Lha'lian who got the gold?"
Makoto and Sousuke gave their hugs to Hiyori and Momotarou respectively as the latter felt a little sad.
"You can try wearing one of ours after the photoshoot, alright?" Sousuke said.
"Yeah," Momo answered, "This was a battle for sure. I can see how the others feel."
Makoto nodded, "We still have…that day."
"Oh. That one…hehe, I'll reserve my energy for that!" Momotarou winked.
"Not too loud," Hiyori said, "Not everyone knows that little Operation."
"You did a good job too," Sousuke added, "We'll help each other win."
"Thanks," Hiyori replied.
"Heya Sandro, how about we go for a walk together?" Kyle asked, "It's breaktime anyway."
"Oh sure," he got up, "I still don't wanna miss the photo ceremony though."
"We'll watch it on the recap," Kyle said, "Plus we can at least talk about some other stuff."
Once the two were out of there, the other swimmers quickly rearranged their seats to discuss the recent updates from the IOC. Kotetsu, Apollo and a few others were also summoned to come into the room.
"Turns out they approved this project," Nao revealed, "Upon careful review. All of you do your best."
"This will be quite a memorable one for sure," Nagisa said, "All of us!"
"Not too loud Nagisa-kun," Rei answered.
"Anything we need to do on our end?" Haruka asked.
"We just need to make sure that we keep our traps shut," Natsuya reminded them, "The IOC will print out the schedule as well as the media for photography arrangements."
"I still wonder how all this even became such a topic?" Kaede grunted.
"Well, only the one closest to him would envision it," Nao answered.
"Wait…you don't mean…?" Hiyori asked.
The group turned to see Sergi walking in along with the Marotta parents.
"It was our plan to bring Laura P on the first day before the competition began," the father revealed.
"That's not what they're talking about," the mother sighed, "You stunod."
"And it was I who discovered a piece of lost history," Sergi confessed, "A storyline that should be celebrated with everyone. I gave it to Natsuya and Nao to see if they could bring it to life."
"Sooo that's why we've been getting this whole group email going around," Ai replied.
"Does everyone…well except…?" Momotarou asked.
"Yes, and you all must keep it hush," Nao reminded them, "I know it'll be more difficult as we draw closer to the end, but this project will work as long as we remain composed to our goal."
"We'll send a more proper set of instructions on what to do," Natsuya concluded, "So keep an eye out on your messages."
Outside, Kyle and Alex walked around the garden terrace as they were enjoying the varying plants here. From cacti to trees and several the flowers were blooming with a perfume of relaxation with a mix of tropical seas.
"The Hydrangeas are pretty," Alex pointed to the blue, purple, and pink ones blooming in a nearby foliage.
Kyle was about to reply when he saw a notification on his phone. Upon seeing the subject line, he brushed the phone back to his pocket and replied, "Yeah, the colors are like vivid."
"You…ok?" Alex tilts his head.
"Oh, I'm fine, it's just junk email," Kyle said.
"Ah," Alex nodded, "Some stupid shit."
They continued to walk through the gardens as Alex looked at the one Cherry Blossom tree, "This kinda reminded me of a weird friend we once had…well maybe not weird but an unlikely ally."
"Oh, you mean the one talking tree which Rei was obsessed about?" Kyle chuckled.
"Yeah," he tried hard to not laugh, "I guess that was something back then…"
After gaining the medals, Makoto and Sousuke returned to the multi-purpose room as everyone congratulated them on this historical moment.
"Thank you all," Makoto smiled.
"Yeah, it's truly a sight," Sousuke agreed.
"How heavy is that?" Nagisa asked.
"Nothing much," Makoto shrugged.
"I bet it's light as a feather for Albert," the blond said.
"What are you trying to imply?" the megane asks.
"Nothinnnnggg?" Nagisa tilts his head.
"Where's…?" Sousuke begins to ask about Alex and Kyle.
"They're out for now," Haruka replied, "Operation Last Race is approved."
"Oh!" Makoto gasped, "W-what, they actually did?!"
"That was quite a longshot," Kaede crossed his arms, "I don't think they'd ever do such a silly thing but…"
"We know this is the right thing to do," Rin said, "For all of us…and him."
"Absolutely," Makoto agreed.
"There is one more piece of news we need to share," Nao continued, "We have our guests from Suizei here as well as the Extraterrestrial Swimmers."
"Oh wow!" Nagisa gasped, "Are they…?"
"We're going to invite them for this operation but that's gonna require another approval," Natsuya said, "For this project to work, we're gonna need all the help we can get."
Storyline A: The Final Reckoning
The remaining five Swimming Guardians and Yamato stood together, staring at the looming structure before them. Indeed, this was the real Rhodinean Cathedral Palace. Now it was a matter of time to find Memnon and engage in this final battle. However…
"You will NOT proceed," Suiei Gliese Scorpius readied his Longstaff weapon.
"Your powers are the ones that have driven us all to madness, Suiei Marotta," Suiei Kepler Cygnus added.
"Yeah, and then what?!" Romio shouted, "Why do you blame the likes of our kind if we never met any of you assholes beforehand?!"
Kepler scowled and readied his Crystalized Pitchfork at Romio and Shizuru.
"What we are is OUR business, staying out of it is YOURS," Gliese said.
"Sandro…I'm gonna fight with you," Yamato replied, "I'm getting really fed up with these fake swimmers."
"Y-Yamato…!?" Alex looks at him.
Yamato raised up his hand to the symbolic background of the HD-1 Galaxy with the Aero Star in the forefront. He shouted his following transformation words.
"SUIZEI AERO STAR POWERRRRRRR…MAAAAKKKKEEEE UP!"
The prince of Suizei closed his eyes as his outfit shimmered away into the background. He spun with ribbons of red-yellow energy flashing about as he walked in an elegant pace. His forehead flashed a star-like symbol while his armor and jewelry appeared in varying pieces.
Both his shoulders were covered in golden-red pads with a chest plate made of silver and gunmetal gray with red and gold accents. At the apex of the heart, the yin-yang crystal was embedded there, protected by a diamond coated layer. The armor then created ridges that glowed like neon lights in scarlet, tangerine, and lemon yellow.
He donned a pair of tall, metallic armored boots while his waistline had an armored kilt-skirt like combo where his Crescent Crystal Suizei Dagger was in the sheath. His biceps and forearms were kept exposed, but a pair of leather bracelets were on his left wrist.
A set of earrings similar to the star on his forehead appeared on each side. Following this, an ombre of a red-orange choker necklace shimmered onto his neck.
Yamato finally opened his eyes and took his own pose with the planet Suizei and its moon Ares behind while chanting, "Defender of the HD-1 Galaxy, under the protection of Mizu Yamato, I am the Swimming Guardian of the Xiphias, Suiei Yamato!"
The twins grunted as Yamato readied his attack, "Shigino! Nakagawa! Minami! Iwashimizu! Uozumi! Lend me the remnants of your power!"
He unsheathed his dagger as it was now glowing in energy for his attack, "XIPHIAAAASSSS, SUIZEI, LONG SLASHHHH!"
Multiple illusionary slashes flew from the blade, heading over towards the twins. However, they both dodged the attack and fired back towards him. Yamato carefully scaled their next move before locking in blade with Gliese.
Alex turned to see Kepler about to attack the Articorans but they replied back with their own attacks. He was at a crossroad on what he had to do. Should he charge on in to find Memnon or help out what's happening here?
"ARTICORAN, POLARRRRR VORTEXXXXX!" Romio shouted, unleashing an icy-based spell towards Kepler.
"ARTICORAN, DISPLACEMENTTTTT FRAMEEEEE!" Shizuru chanted, creating a physic-blast attack.
The two attacks swirled together but Kepler readied his attack, "ACHAEMENIAN, SHADOOWWWWW BLIZZARD!"
Gliese snarled as he was facing a stalemate match against Yamato. He jumped backwards and called upon several of the crystal shards before unleashing his own spell, "ACHAEMENIAN, CRYSTALISSSS REVENGE!"
"SUIZEI…FUSIOOONNNNNN MEDLEY!" Yamato raised both of his hands into the air as he unleashed a rainbow-like spiral attack on Gliese. Within the attack, there was also an explosion of star-like orbs interlacing with bolts.
"Sandro, you have to pay attention!" Misaki shook his senses back, "Don't let Memnon's mind games get to you again!"
"WATCH OUT!" Kaoru shouted.
Several of the crystals began to fuse together, becoming a gigantic, monstrous entity as it roared with anger. This snapped Alex back to reality as they both dodged their slamming fists. The evil twins laughed and broke their attacks from the heroes and leaped over towards their Crystal Monster.
"Oh my goodness, are they rallying all the deceased senshi into this monstrosity?!" Misaki gasped.
"This is so messed up," Yamato, "HOW DARE YOU MANIPULATE THE LIVES OF THESE SOULS!"
The monster roared and slammed its fists again on the ground, throwing shockwaves at the senshi and sending them spiraling around.
Camelot Magna
As the skies above were torn by flame and light, the two siblings were locked in an endless combat of metal clanging with anger. Artemis couldn't bear to see his twin like this, especially with the stolen eye from Articora!Rei now a part of him. This had to stop.
"Apollo, stop this! This isn't the way!" Artemis protested.
"YOU DON'T GET TO DECIDE THAT!" Apollo/Suiei Chaos roared as it unleashed blasts of dark energy flying in all directions towards Artemis.
The twin dodged the attacks with his heart racing out of control. He had never thought this nightmare of The Final Reckoning would come to life in this world. Not even after what happened on Duniya…
However, the only way of getting out of this…
Apollo roared angrily and clashed his sword again at Artemis, nearly slicing him. However, the latter watched in slo-motion before unleashing a karate-like kick to throw Apollo back.
"So you hurt me…and you know what that means?!" Apollo/Suiei Chaos spoke, "Your darkness will soon grow!"
"I'm fighting not because of regret!" Artemis answered, "I'm fighting for OUR future! This isn't how anyone should end their story! Destroying me would result in the end of all things!"
"And destroying me would also in resulting the end of all existence!" Apollo/Suiei Chaos spoke.
Apollo raised up the sword and unleashed more destructive storms across the remaining half of the planet, now engulfing ¾ of the realm. The Mahotsukai were being turned back into the energies of the stars and particle matters with their deaths barely heard in the storm.
I have to awaken as Suiei Cosmos, but what's going on with Alex and the others, Artemis thought to himself, Why is this war a burden for even those who are non-human? Did we associate ourselves with a destructive species for too long to the point that we are like them? Has human emotion leaked to our world?
"You of all should know the answer to that," Apollo/Suiei Chaos spoke again, "When the Magic Six from the first generation came here, their feet, their breaths, their humane emotions were introduced…like a virus. We were betrayed by our own kind thinking that it will end the conflict beyond the metaphysical limits!"
"Their coming here was the very reason why time itself is beginning to crack…why The Final Reckoning is the failsafe for stories to be told!"
"That doesn't make sense!" Artemis shouted, "If this place was the birth of creation…then…"
"The birth of creation began…not in this world…it began with us…"
Rhodinean Cathedral Palace
"It began when our union was shattered," Memnon chanted, "The union was divided…conflict, war, peace, happiness…all things became polarized, and the truth shattered."
He watched the ongoing battle of the remaining Swimming Guardians against his two best warriors. His mind flashed back to a while ago when both Gliese and Kepler were outcasts of their homelands for being rebel against their respective societies. Indeed, the years of being ostracized pained them. Pain turned to hate, hate turned to resentment, and resentment became revenge.
Eventually, both these twins obtained their powers as Swimming Guardians, but their hatred and resentment slowly darkened their powers.
After destroying their worlds and getting them here to this place, he had trained them in personal moves and fighting skills that not even a lot of the other Shadow Guardians knew about. They were to become his top protectors of this domain.
Despite this, he still made sure that each of the Shadow Guardians were kept in line as he crafted a lie within them that anyone who still survives during The Final Reckoning will have access to meet with Chaos on a personal note.
Memnon looked up to the crystals as he formulated a new plan in his mind. It was no doubt that Alex and these remaining heroes would break from this conflict and another one needed to fill in place. However, this one was going to be the one that would destroy him from the inside out.
"External attacks are too merciful for you," Memnon whispered, "If I'm going to destroy you…"
Back outside, the Crystal Monster roared and fired more attacks towards the Articorans. The four were able to reply with a defensive barrier quickly to avoid getting solidified. Once the dust was clear they quickly dispersed, splitting in different directions.
God this is a lot harder than it seems, Misaki thought, at least I can combat sword to sword.
Alex readied on the Solar Astro Destiny Tiare, hoping to at least break apart the monstrosity and send the crystals back to their homeland. However, he saw the twins readying their next attack together as they twirled their rods in the air before charging downwards.
"SUIZEI…FUSIOOONNNNNN MEDLEY!" Yamato chanted again to repel the twins but it was indeed a struggle. He turned to Alex, "NOW!"
"MACEDONIAAAAA DRAGOONNNNN, LIBERATINNNGGGGG, BLISSSSS!"
He twirled on his Astro Solar Destiny Tiare while spinning briefly in a darken blue-ocean blue ombre with sparkles of the stars and the heavens as one. After raising his weapon upwards, great beams of light swirled out before blasting out the attack into feathers. Gliese saw what was coming and decided to betray his twin, pushing him into the blast as everyone gasped to see Kepler being obliterated into ashes.
"W-what in the name of…?" Romio breathed.
"Such a useless twat," Gliese grinned wickedly, "I never liked him the moment Memnon trained us both. Now that I'm the last of the Shadow Guardians of the Shadow Achemenian Empire, I'll finally gained the title of a true Suiei and a world of my own!"
He raised his rod and unleashed a massive spiral blasting attack, throwing them off course. Gliese continued to make a sickening laughter, anticipating on his great reward from Memnon.
"EVERYONE!" Alex cried out.
"You are such a disgrace, Suiei Marotta…for even to exist in any realm. The only reason why you still do exist is because that Great…light of yours refuses to die out," Gliese said.
With this, Gliese vanished and created several illusionary figures of himself firing more blasts to amplify the attacks. Alex replied with a larger light spell, sealing everyone safely.
I have to find the real Gliese, he thought, at any moment he's gonna…
Gliese growled and unleashed a disarming spell to rid the light as Yamato got back up on his feet, ready to keep on fighting. Annoyed, Gliese shatters the Crystal Monster before reshaping it into several daggers. They then appeared right on top of the four Articorans ready for the kill as well as a bunch aimed right at Yamato.
"Your choice…your life…or theirs?" Gliese grins at Alex.
Dammit, Alex thought, this is a checkmate!
Having enough of this, Kaoru saw the two facing off. He closed his eyes and rested his hands on the ground, concentrating on the moisture around him before chanting something silently. Moments later, Gliese's vision went blurry as he roared out angrily. Alex fired blasts of light to shatter the crystal daggers.
"Nice one Kaoru!" Misaki shouted.
"He's gone though!" Kaoru said, "Stand alert!"
They carefully stood in place, readying themselves for what would happen next. Gliese, however, had other plans. He silently made his attack towards Yamato as everyone gasped too late. Yamato felt his body impaled by the rod with blood leaking from his face.
"YAMATO?!" Alex shouted, rushing towards him.
The Articorans quickly threw another shield up to protect the duo as Alex hovered over him and held his hand.
"It's ok, I got you," he said.
"You have…the most awesome team," Yamato breathed, "Thank you…"
"Don't go!" Alex replied, "We already suffered enough!"
"Promise me…there's a future for all of us," the prince answered, "I know we can be reborn again…the Greatest Light will make it happen."
"We will," he smiled tearfully, "Yamato…"
With this the prince concluded, "The crystals…they truly are the answer. I hope someday…we will be reborn again without such horrific conflict."
"YAMATO!?" Alex cried as the prince closed his eyes to accept his death. However, with this being a physical death and not magical, his body remained intact.
Dammit all, Alex tearfully thought, no matter how many times, this war will never end. Even if I were to die, someday…a new great power would challenge the other.
Gliese blasted down the quartet and stabbed his rod between Alex and Yamato, adding, "That's true. If you keep on fighting, so does the pain and suffering!"
"I HAVE HAD ENOUGH OF THIS!" Alex roared, getting back on his feet, and readying his weapon, "THIS PHILOSOPHY OF YOURS IS DEPRESSING AND UNFORGIVING! I WILL MAKE THE FUTURE HAPPEN!"
With this, he unleashed another attack finally striking Gliese down into ashes. Alex sighed in some relief but was still in tears for Yamato's death. The other four were beaten up but still hanging in there.
"Are you okay?" Shizuru asked.
"I'm not but…I can't give up," Alex said, breathing a bit heavily still from the rage, "Everyone I love has died for me. I honestly don't know anymore.
"It's like…no matter how much I try to move on, the bad things come back, crashing down."
"You have to keep on going though like you said," Misaki answered, "We're here for you now. We'll give our lives to you."
"The price of being a Swimming Guardian is steep," Alex warned them, "But I am truly happy you came to help us…along with the Extraterrestrial senshi that came in spirit to relieve us from the fire."
"Heh, so my theory about those other guys were right on!" Kaoru chuckled.
"Eh?" Alex tilted his head.
"We had a little bet…I guess I'll have to pay it up later," Misaki rolled his eyes.
"Sandro, you know…you kinda reminded me of Rei…when he tried to better himself," Shizuru said, "I'm sure he told you the story and all that."
"He did," he replied, "Well I also saw the pictures from the author's book."
"Rei wouldn't want you to give up especially," Romio agreed, "Even though you and him are not a couple like the other ones…you both are connected to all of us."
Alex looked down at the cold body of Yamato as it started to slowly turn to ash. They gasped to see the heart crystal also emerging out of its body as the yin-yang crystal was within it.
"Oh no…who's collecting this now?!" Misaki gasped.
Alex tried to grab it, but it flew away gently before heading towards the palace. They chased after it, heading down a path-like road with more crystals and structures of some kind.
"Which way did it go?!" Kaoru asked.
"Straight onwards!" Shizuru replied.
"Let's hurry!" Alex added.
They continued to run after it before finally reaching the front entrance where the stairwell was indeed massive, long, and somewhat high as well. A sense of great darkness was radiating out of the building.
"The palace…" Shizuru breathed.
"We must be right at the base," Romio added.
"Prepare yourselves for whatever comes next," Kaoru replied.
Yamato's yin-yang heart crystal floated upwards on the stairs before finally, a hand of some sort appeared. The crystal hovered above it for mere moments before it disappeared. A singular shadowed figure stood but more of them lined themselves up one by one.
Before their eyes a small army of some group stood in darkness as a chilling voice of a familiar tone could be heard.
"Your next battle…will be with us…Suiei Marotta!"
Storyline B: Our Free!
Mini-Flashback: About 2 Weeks before the Olympics
Iwamara High School
Several of the swimmers, including the Magic Six, Kyle, Momotarou, Sousuke, Ai, Ikuya and Asahi visited the building which was emptied for a long time. A rumor said that the previous version of the Magic Six came here but their reception wasn't quite too well.
"We're going to set things right," Alex looked at the building, "I'm sure a lot of work will need to be done here, but I think it's possible."
"What happened to this place anyway?" Ikuya muttered.
"It was abandoned last I checked," Makoto replied, "A decade or so after the last class graduated."
"Well, with more people moving here, I am sure it'll become the new Iwatobi," Asahi grinned.
The school was broken down with trees grown inside, broken glass, possibly a few dead animals. However, a lot of the rooms were still somewhat intact. Despite not having magic any longer, Alex could feel the once livelihood of this place. Thankfully, a grant was approved by the mayor of Iwamara after receiving funds from Amakata in Neo Sportsbrooke.
"This was a version of Iwatobi…" he said.
"Our old school then, it really was," Nagisa replied.
"What memories we really had," Rei agreed.
"Absolutely," Haruka nodded.
Alex turned to them with a smile, "Someday, I hope we can share our story with the next generation. Maybe not all the details, but to show the good, the bad, the best, the worst…our story. What they need is hope and inspiration and most of all, what it means to forgive."
Later on, Alex sat down alone by the beach area, watching a family of four with two young daughters playing around with the sand and building a sandcastle. It reminded him of Anastasia's youth when he and Kyle raised her.
"Brings back memories, huh?" Kyle sat down next to him.
"It does," he said, "And now our girl has grown…I still can't believe it."
Kyle wrapped his arm around him and replied, "And we are still here, Sandro…"
"Yeah…" he smiled.
The STYLE FIVE watched them from afar, wondering what the future would be after the Olympics. Some questions were not yet answered. However, some would continue this journey while others may try to explore new options and opportunities.
"We should grab some ice cream or something," Nagisa suggested.
"Nagisa-kun, we shouldn't be spoiling our appetite for the upcoming tournaments," Rei sighed.
"He's certainly an eating machine," Makoto added.
"Do you remember when Ama-chan was still teaching, we had dinner together," the blond winked.
"Oh god, don't remind us that," Rei makes a nervous sweat drop.
"Rin, did you do something with Momo, Ai, and Sousuke back then…?" Haruka asked.
"Actually, we did have a dinner celebration the night before your guys' tournament in Nationals," Rin revealed, "Mr. Sugimoto provided that one. We might not have made it to nationals that time, we still shared our joy together."
"That must've been fun Rin-chan," Nagisa said, "Maybe we should do one again!"
"We're gonna have that cookout a couple days before, remember?" Ai asked as he along with Momo, Sousuke, Ikuya and Asahi arrived on the scene.
"It's still not the same," the blond makes a fish face.
"Maybe someday we will," Sousuke replied, "After all…this is the beginning of a new story."
"A happy beginning," Momo smiled, "Right?"
"Perhaps," Rei said, "But for some of us, I'd say…this is more of a…second chance."
"Couldn't say it better than that," Rin agreed, "A second chance for many of us…"
Finally, Kyle and Alex returned to the group and headed back to the Iwamara Swim World facility. The waters were calm and brushing ashore with the seagulls flying around.
Present Day:
Day 5 of the Olympics
Ikuya and Nagisa were heading their way to the 100 meters breaststroke finals. Like some of the other finalists, they wore the blue-black NATIONAL SWIM TEAM jackets.
"It's been a long road for us, huh?" Ikuya asked.
"Hehe, of course Iku-chan, but I'm definitely looking forward to this match!" the blond answered.
"What do you think about this little Operation?" the teal-haired man added.
"Well…I think it'll be something incredible…a sight truly to behold," Nagisa said, "To be honest, my heart was shattered for him…Rei-chan came up with a good idea about this journey."
"A second chance?" Ikuya looks at him, "You do realize I was there too when he said that, right?"
"Ah yeah, didn't mean to forget," Nagisa makes a quick sweat drop.
"Let's focus on this and discuss after," Ikuya said as they finally made their way to the diving blocks after reaching the stage.
"Nagisa-kun…" Rei clasped his hands in a prayer for him back in the multi-purpose room.
"Ikuya…" Hiyori breathed his name likewise.
As the tournament began for this finale, Natsuya and Nao were busy making a list of names while reviewing the notes from the committee that was agreed upon. However, the older Kirishima brother couldn't help but watch his younger one making history.
"He's come a long way too, huh?" Nao smiled.
"Yeah," Natsuya agreed, "I'm glad I was also given a second chance like my other self…too bad I couldn't be there in the very beginning."
"Well, our time was on pause," he said, "But like I said, we caught up very quickly, holding the mantle of our past selves."
"Looks like they're about to make the flip turn," Natsuya watched the live TV.
"A lot has certainly changed," Nao continued, "Even when all the magic from our Swimming Guardians was used up."
"Well, you told him that his swimming was to be real…nothing of magic, none of the drugs," Natsuya replied.
"Correct. However, there is one more piece of him that's still lingering," Nao looks at the names again of the people, "His reason to swim…his true feelings. None of that has truly surfaced yet. It worries me."
Natsuya nodded as Ikuya finally hit the third place while Nagisa was in fourth. A small, rare tear of happiness came from his eye.
"They both swam well," Nao added, "I hope that this little project will not only bring happiness…but also a stronger team."
"Do you think he'll figure out why he truly swims?" Natsuya asked.
"Something has to spark within him," Nao said, "Otherwise this would all be for naught."
Back at the pool, Nagisa and Ikuya exchanged a brief hug before getting out. While the blond was a little saddened, he was still thankful for making it this far and couldn't feel any regret.
"I'll meet you and the others back there," Ikuya said.
Nagisa returned to the room where he hugged his friends despite not obtaining a medal. Regardless, everyone was happy to see how much progress he had made throughout this last period of time.
"You did a fabulous job there Nagisa," Alex replied.
"Aw, Sandro-chan," Nagisa winked.
"I guess now it's down to us and Natsuya," Rin said, looking at Rei.
"This will be an interesting match indeed," Rei pushes up his glasses.
"Good luck to all of you," Kyle replied.
Tomorrow is the last day isn't it, Alex thought, I wish…there was a second chance. But that won't happen for a long time…I'll have to keep improving myself. I'll improve so I can be with them…until my body gives out.
JINGLE-JINGLE
JINGLE-JINGLE
He looked up to see the fish again floating in the background, waiting. Alex excused himself while following the koi carp across the hallways. However, something was getting darker and darker before he accidentally crashed himself into the wall and fell backwards.
Before closing his eyes, he could hear several footsteps of panic, but his body was feeling exhausted and sadden to look up. However, the Koi Carp was still somewhat seen in his vision before he blacked out.
He woke up in another dream like sequence but this time it wasn't in some darken area. Alex realized he was back in Mayfield where he saw his younger self swimming. But then it rapidly changed when he saw him realizing his puberty growth taking place.
Why do I keep coming back to this, the older Alex thought, is there something in my life that I still can't get over with?
With a shrug, he finally approached him and rests his hands on the younger self's shoulders, "Why are you giving yourself up?"
"I don't look good! I look like a gorilla!" the kid shouted.
"You understand that your choices will shape your destiny, right?" he asked, "Both good and bad choices."
"I…" the kid breathed, turning around, and crying loudly in his arms.
"We live in a superficial world where beauty is misused and misjudged. Unfortunately, I too feel the same as you," the older Alex continued, "But…don't let it stop you or I. We both know, we have people who love us."
"A lot of things and people will come into your life…and it is up to you to keep moving forward."
The little Alex finally stopped crying and looked at his older self as the latter added, "Because it's you…and I am me…we both know…we'll keep on going."
With this, the background started to melt away into the darkness as the Koi carp appeared again but this time it was hovering above the young child. The current Alex closed his eyes as he could feel himself drowning downwards before waking back up.
Finally, Alex woke up an hour later in the medic area as Kyle, Nao, Haruka, Makoto, Asahi, and Ikuya were relieved to see him alright.
"You okay there, Sandro-chan?" Makoto asked.
"T-that dream…" he muttered, "I think I might have started the path."
"Path?" Haruka looks at him.
"Never mind, it was kinda a surreal thing. But I've been seeing the Koi Carp lately, almost like something's going to happen," Alex replied.
"The Koi Carp does symbolize a lot of good things," Nao said, "Success, prosperity, as well as patience."
"Maybe with me being disqualified is a sign that I need to be patient more with myself," Alex sighed, looking at his hands.
"Many of us did not win the medals," Asahi replied, "But we're okay with it. That doesn't change who we are to our team, to our families."
"It's just…I'm embarrassed with myself," Alex confessed, "Mixed with anger, sadness, confusion, nothing is clear to me anymore."
"Well what matters is that you're better now. Thankfully it was just a little bump and nothing internal," Kyle said, "Even…your Mizu God showed up and used some of its magic to relieve the physical wound."
"Tomorrow's the last day of the Olympics…in swimming," Alex continued, "We'll have to start packing up."
"Why rush it out?" Ikuya asked.
"Did something happen?" he looked at the teal-haired man.
"What do you mean?" Kyle adds on the façade.
"I don't know, is there something else going on?" Alex grew confused.
Shit, he's trying to figure it out, Kyle thought.
"Look, it's been a long road for everyone," Makoto approaches him, "We'll have a post-celebration when we get back to Iwamara, alright?"
"Uh, yeah, that one," Asahi adds on.
"At least it'll be nice that we accomplished as a team for sure," Ikuya agreed.
"Wait, what about the butterfly finals!?" Alex gasped, realizing the time, "And I missed out on the breaststroke finals…I can't believe it."
"You can watch it on the live TV there," Nao said, "Natsuya, Rin, and Rei should be taking their marks shortly."
"We should get back there ourselves," Haruka replied, "But one of us will check up on you later."
"I'll grab something for you to eat," Kyle added.
Alex watched them go as he felt like his question was unanswered. With a sigh, he checked on his phone for any news or something but no updates.
I might just be overreacting a little, he thought, then again, I've been in such a hot mess…from the Shadow Achaemenian Empire…to this.
Once they got outside, they sighed in some relief, but Ikuya looked at Makoto, "That was a close one you know."
"He'll still go through with the training tonight?" Makoto asked.
"Yes, he'll be alright by sundown," Nao answered, "Kaede has been notified as well."
"The Men's 100m Butterfly Final will begin shortly."
Natsuya, Rin and Rei finally arrive at their respective blocks, all geared up and ready for this showdown. A battle of two sharks and a butterfly against an unknown crowd was quite an unusual combination.
Now it's my turn to make a stand with this, Natsuya thought.
Father, I hope you are still with me, Rin prayed mentally.
Everyone, let me show you my butterfly, Rei readied himself.
"Take Your Marks…"
"BEEP!"
Outside Venue
Goro sat down with Yamato and the five Suizei Swimmers along with the Extraterrestrial folks from the other worlds. All of them were watching the live swimming events for the last day or so, all enticed by the presentation. There was also some footage recap from the previous events.
"All of them have swam so far," Goro grinned.
"Heh, I bet I'd make a worthy opponent someday," Yamato grinned, "Especially with that other version of myself."
"I still can't believe you two haven't really chatted yet," Hayato replied.
"I'm sure that'll cause an eruption," Kazuki whispered in Takuya's ear.
"It's truly festive here," Marchand was looking at the Cherry Blossom trees.
"I wish we had something like this too back home," Ceccon sighed.
"Well, maybe we can always ask," Sota shrugged, "Some gardening tips."
"Was that what you wanted to do if you weren't a prince?" Gaia-Ya asked.
"What did we get ourselves into?" Shouta turned to Toru.
Goro gasped upon seeing the results of the live swimming for the Butterfly Finals…
2nd – Rin
3rd – Natsuya
4th – Rei
"Onii-chan…" Gou smiled upon seeing her brother scoring in 2nd place.
"Aniki…" Ikuya breathed with some joy for his brother.
"Rei-chan…" Nagisa felt sadden as he reflected his own victory in 3rd with Ikuya in 2nd.
Ikuya wanted to say something, but he instead comforted the blond and added, "He's done very well Nagisa. I'm sure this Operation will pay it off."
"I hope so," he replied.
"It will," Gou answered, "All of you will be swimming together."
Nagisa's phone bleeped, and it was a message from Kyle stating that Alex is finally awake. With a sigh of relief, he had an idea in his mind.
"It's almost sundown, how about we go visit him?" Nagisa asked, "At least those of us who haven't yet."
Alex and Kyle were having supper together as the former was feeling better from that little incident. The TV showed the conclusion of today's events as everyone was talking and being interviewed.
"I'm certainly excited for tomorrow's relay," Tsubasa said, "We have a very strong team, ready to take on the world. But it has never been a doubt that everyone here has done a phenomenal job. Hopefully, this event will inspire many."
"I didn't think he was a chit-chatter," Alex shrugged.
"He certainly does have a face for the public I guess," Kyle said.
The IOC arrived on camera to the podium with a new announcement, "Good evening competitors and audience members. We have had a recent application sent to us for review. But before I get into that, let's explain the background…"
The board member kept on talking for another couple of minutes when they finally said, "…So with careful consideration…we are going to utilize the final seventh day as a beta run competition. Everyone is welcomed in admission."
"A beta run competition?" Alex muttered.
"Interesting…" Kyle feigned his response.
"Did they say anything to you?" he looks at his husband.
"No," Kyle shook his head, "This is all very new to me. I'll see if I can get more info about that later on."
Well, it won't matter to me since I'm already disqualified, Alex thought, why do I even…
He put his hand over his own heart, wondering if there was something else speaking to him.
Later, Alex was already changed into his swimsuit form where he met up with Natsuya, Nao, and Kaede at the side pool.
"100 meters of free," Kaede said, getting on the block, "Make sure you keep up."
Nao readied on the timer as Natsuya said, "Take your marks…ready…GO!"
The two dove into the evening abyss as the water itself came to life in both of them. Alex unleashed his freestyle but realized he was a bit behind Kaede. Something was doubting in him.
I can't, he thought, is this the same anxiety I felt when I swam earlier during the prelims?
JINGLE-JINGLE
JINGLE-JINGLE
"Why do you swim? Why did you go to them?"
Dammit, Cosmos, Alex thought, this isn't the time for me to answer that question! I can't lose to this one against Kaede!
"The stressor is taking toll," Natsuya observed as Nao kept silent.
The waters continued to slow him down, almost trying to stop him and think. However, the dragon swimmer couldn't bear to succumb to his sadness. This was enough pain he endured for the longest time.
Maybe it's just that, I…want to be at home with people I relate to, he thought.
Something happened as Natsuya's eyebrow lifted a little. Alex was suddenly catching up to Kaede as they both flipped the wall and pushed outwards. Kaede grunted and kept going at his pace.
That's it, Kaede thought, stop living in regret and pain there your majesty. We have had our happy ending thanks to you…but only one more remains. And that ending is closer than you believe.
Finally, they both struck the wall as Nao smiled in relief to see Alex's performance back to the standard level.
It's as I thought, Performance Anxiety, Nao concluded his thoughts, when he was on the drugs, he knew that winning was certain. Thus, that was how he was able to keep going with confidence. However, that is not how the world works…for using the drugs and dark magic comes with a price…from personal health to the relations of the public….
"You both did great," Natsuya greeted them.
"It seems so," Kaede grunted.
"Natsuya, Nao…I think I might know why I am still feeling stressed," Alex said, "A lot of it has to do with my past competition experience which was fabricated on my part. It has left me with a PTSD for that."
"Dealing with unknown results can be stressful," Nao answered, "But I believe that as long as you keep moving forward, the stress will decrease."
"Focus on yourself," Kaede replied, "It's not worth to look back."
"Before I forget, did you guys hear what the IOC was talking about?" Alex questioned them.
"Ah yes, the beta run?" Nao looks at him, "We are still waiting on the details about it, but we will notify accordingly."
"There's more…to this?" he tilts his head.
"Just get some rest for now," Natsuya answered, "We'll discuss about this later on."
With a shrug, Alex returned to the lockers to change while Kaede was keeping a hidden distance. He sighed to himself, wondering if this whole little project was worth hiding. A part of him was tempted to say something but doing so would trigger unpredictable reactions from the others.
Oubane Omoir
Apollo, Kotetsu, Albert, Haruka, Sousuke, Rin, and Ikuya sat together here at this ramen and sushi restaurant to enjoy themselves. Now that it was down to the final tournament of the medley teams and the IM, a bit of talk passed around about their time in this season. They had a sushi sampler set as well as a mixed ramen order shared among them.
Of course, with Apollo finally dating Kotetsu, they could all see a happier atmosphere radiating from the brunette-mahogany haired man. True, he might not have made it to finals…but to finally be with Apollo was certainly something he gained.
"I have never used chopsticks before," Apollo blushed a bit.
"Here, it's not that difficult to use," Kotetsu calmed him, "Allow me."
"Heh, at least someone's got his hands full," Ikuya said.
"I'll definitely get back at ya soon," Kotetsu answered, hinting about a future race sometime.
"Fine with me," Ikuya answered.
"This is like the time when I raced with Asahi in some freestyle thingy and still beat him," Haruka recalled.
"Heh, he must've been not too thrilled," Rin replied.
"You're one to talk," Sousuke answered.
"Okay guys, you four especially need to be ready for tomorrow," Albert reminded them.
"On the other hand, I'm happy for the Hidaka and Shimogami teams making it to the end," Ikuya said.
Haruka's phone flashed for a moment. Taking a look, it was a message from Rei about Alex's confusion for the remainder of the events.
"Just keep him at bay" he wrote.
"I have a feeling he's gonna try to figure out this whole thing," Rin replied.
"Just act normal," Sousuke answered.
"Oi, Otter!" Aoba was running after Momotarou across the shopping district. The latter saw a gigantic beetle sculpture and he couldn't help but get a photo or two from it. Ai could only chuckle this as he remembered how obsessed Momo was with his beetles.
Seijuurou laughed at this as he and Tsubasa were holding hands, walking across the night life. Hikaru and Isana weren't far behind with Kotarou and his wife Misae walking closely in a couple fashion.
Shin and Ryouta were on their own little date at a fancy restaurant, discussing their future after this year's Olympics. Ryouta expressed an interest in possibly trying to join the team and train hard enough to make his own history.
Kisumi and his brother Hayato were hanging out with Kazuki, Takuya, Shouta, and Toru at one of the night light fountain parks, eating some ice cream desserts.
Meanwhile, Natsuya and Nao were at the office with the Extraterrestrial swimmers after getting a message from Kisumi about their arrival. They were in talks about the Operation Last Race as they too decided on what their roles would be.
As for Alex, he was back in bed sleeping while Nagisa and Rei sat outside on the balcony, looking at the stars. Kyle watched him rest peacefully and was almost tempted to sleep with him, but knowing that their privacy is somewhat limited, it would be a bit much.
"Sandro…the last day…we'll shine together," he said quietly, "All that happened…will lead to this moment you dreamed of…"
He lowered himself down to kiss him on the forehead before heading outside where Nagisa and Rei were chatting.
At a nearby hotel, Articora!Alex stood outside with Articora!Rei as the former closed his eyes to make a wish upon a shooting star.
"Did you make a wish?" the megane asked.
"I did…but I'm gonna keep that a secret," he winked.
"Well fine," his husband turned his head to the side, "I guess I'll keep mine's a secret too."
"How about we share them after tomorrow's finale?" Articora!Alex asked.
"Hmmm…maaaayyybe?" Articora!Rei pokes at his nose in response.
"Agh, come on!" he said before they both chuckled and headed back into their room.
Day 6: The 'Final' Swim Day
Around 5:45 AM, Alex woke up, but the skies were barely starting to enter the astronomical dawn. Not wanting to go back to bed, he got up and changed into a jogging set of clothes and briefly brushed teeth before leaving quietly. He also geared up on some lighting cords for visibility in case of any unexpected traffic or other early goers.
His mind flashed back on so much of this journey since gaining a second chance of life…he grew his family, they were whisked into this world via Dark Curse, then they were taken by Apollo to Olympia Magna to fight the crisis there. It was where he finally gained his magic for the first time, which grew immensely as time passed on.
Then, he and the family returned home to Terabithia but later discovered that his truth was still masked away by the witches. Finally reuniting with Haruka and the others, they defeated Verrado and began their swimming quest.
He continued to jog through the streets before heading to a nearby park area with some mini hills to go on. At the peak of one said hill showed a good portion of Neo Sportsbrooke like a postcard. At this point, the skies continued to lighten up more.
I want to swim with them, he thought, but today's the final day of swimming. It's too late for me. I was so hesitant on saying anything about how I truly felt…
A lone tear fell from his face as he also reflected about the further past, like his impression on meeting them in Iwatobi long ago.
I wanted to swim with them to make amends for what I've done, he thought, had I kept on pushing to the finals…perhaps that would've been my undoing. But I also know that not everyone gets what they want. I chose to save everyone…and for that, my price…that price…I…
Finally, the sun appeared in the skies as a ray of light shines on him. For a moment, he felt a warmth of hope igniting within his body. Moments later, he heard a soft meow. He turned to see Cali along with his late grandfather standing in spirit.
"N-Nonno?" he softly gasped.
"Sandro, you brave and crazy man," the older man greeted, "You truly have been a great person."
"In your eyes perhaps but…" he began, "I paid a steep price…one of which I know I can't undo."
"What you've done was for that moment in time," the grandfather replied, "However, you've become someone new. Take that new life, and dive into that future."
"I'm sure you'd probably won't answer this next question I have," Alex said, "But I want to know what's going on with them…they're acting a little bit strange."
"You'll find out soon enough. I know you will find your peace," he encouraged him.
Cali meowed again, prompting the human to hold her up, "Cali…do you know what's going on with everyone?"
She only stared at him with a soft smile and silent breathing. Moments later, the grandfather was now accompanied by his wife as well as the other two grandparents, much to his surprise.
"Sandro, you need to let go of that past. Own up to your mistakes but once you do, be free from them," the other grandfather suggested.
"Don't be a pazzo with regret," his wife replied.
"Just live it up and be happy," the other grandma agreed.
"Thank you…all of you," he smiled, "I'm going to do my best for the family…and for my friends that love me."
With this, he set Cali back down on the ground and followed the path of light back to the arena, feeling the spirits of his ancestors finally with him. Every step felt stronger and happier, knowing that there has to be something good coming out of all this. But whatever it may be, he has to wait and let the events play it out.
When he got back to the room, the others were awake as Haruka, Rin, Sousuke and Ikuya were all dressed in their same attire from yesterday.
"There you are," Rin said.
"My apologies. I went out for a little jog and enjoying the sun," he greeted, "Big day for your four."
"It's gonna be an exciting one! Haru-chan, Rin-chan, Iku-chan and Sou-chan will be doing the final medley race!" Nagisa replied.
"I'm sure it'll be well worth it," Alex smiled.
"Just don't make it all for nothing," Kaede remarked, slightly in tsundere mode.
"There's also the freestyle swimming too with the Hidaka and Shimogami guys," Makoto added, "It'll be quite a day today indeed."
"Any news about…um…tomorrow?" Alex asked.
"Still nothing," Kaede said.
"Eh? But they announced it some beta run," Alex replied.
"Nothing has been further announced at this time," Makoto explained, "But for sure, we'll know it soon. It won't just be you."
"We still got quite a few hours left before the tournament," Rei said, "I say we all go to the bleachers this time and really cheer you guys on."
"That'll be great! Oh before I forget!" Nagisa quickly rushed over to his luggage and pulled out a shopping bag of something before revealing a large quantity of bracelets made of corded string.
"W-what's this?" Makoto asked.
"It's for the medley team of course!" Nagisa said.
"F-for us?" Rin looked a bit shocked.
"Nagisa-kun and I kept this under wraps, but we made these. It's just enough for all of us to have," Rei explained.
"These are wonderful," Kyle said.
"I like it too!" Alex smiled.
"We'll definitely wear them especially in your tournament," Hiyori added.
"Pass them to the others whenever possible," Nagisa handed a bunch more out, "It'll symbolize our unity together as Iwamara."
Haruka, Rin, Sousuke, and Ikuya smiled before looking at each other with determination in their eyes. This was going to be their last tournament for the time being. No doubt, this was going to be another historical moment in their swimming career.
"Haru, are you ready?" Rin asked.
"Yeah," he replied, looking at the trio, "The freestyle…is my specialty!"