~20 Fr: Operation Journey's End -
The Last Race
Present Day: Storyline B, Our Free!
Olympus Duniya – Final Swim Day
(Day 7)
The Arena Hotel
At the pitch of dawn, the skies were pure in color without a taint of clouds blocking the view. Today is a very special day, after 6 previous days of the tournaments, one more race is set in schedule. The last race was scheduled to around 11:30 in the morning.
I'm still confused by this, Sandro looked at the schedule from his bed, why is the writing in Japanese? Are they trying me or something?
"Something wrong, Sandro-chan?" Nagisa asked.
"Is there a translation or something?" he replied.
"Um…" the blond makes a nervous sweat drop, before answering, "Well…I'm not sure what is that you are struggling with…hehe."
"You both ready?" Makoto asked as he arrived in.
"Y-yeah…" the dragon swimmer shrugged, "By chance, were you aware of this…Day 7 race?"
"I mean, we do know that it's happening," Makoto kept his professional stance.
"Well, if my name is on here so I assume I am doing something…" he said, "I mean…?"
"I'm sure we'll figure it all out when we get there," Makoto reassured him.
This is a bit tougher than I thought, Makoto no
ted to himself, I'll need to make sure the others keep their traps closed.
"Oi!" Rin called out, "We need to be checked in by 9:30! It's getting late!"
"On the way!" Sandro answered.
Haruka and Rei checked in with the trio as the former was now wearing a blue-white jacket and pants with hints of pink and yellow on the shoulders and leggings.
"Wow there," he smiled, "It looks good on you."
"Thanks," Haruka said, "Some of us will be wearing these today to promote another design."
"I see," Sandro replied, trying to keep a smile but his heart was still crestfallen.
It's too bad I won't get the other designs, he thought, I'll have to keep going…without an official title for now.
"We got so many jackets, it's hard to keep track," Rei shakes his head.
"Don't remind me of the laundry pile later," Sandro crosses his arms as they all chuckled.
But am I really swimming today, he thought, or is it just something else? Clearly my performance wasn't…as stellar as I wanted to be. Then again, my name is on this list for something…
The Medley of Destiny
Gou sat down on the bleachers with both Miyako and Toraichi and Steve as she looked at the roster for today's event. She couldn't believe that such a relay was approved for competition. The Tachibana's, Nanase's, Hazuki's, Ryugazaki's (in spirit), the Marotta's (the girls along with the parents and Sergi), and other families of all the swimmers sat in a large group together.
The Articorans also attended as well as Yamato, his wife, and Samezuka-Suizei Quartet Senshi as they were all intrigued and inspired by these events. Gou had to blink her eyes twice before realizing it was an alternate, yet different version of herself with this version of Seijuurou. Hayato sat down next to Kisumi as they were both happy likewise.
Ryuuji and Mikhail sat alongside Governor Amakata and Goro. The latter was definitely accepted back into the swimming community and was offered to be another coach for up-and-coming swimmers.
All the volleyball community members sat on the opposite side of the bleachers while the skate folks sat not far from them. The skating and volleyball matches started their programs too but today was an incredibly special day that their 'programing events' were rescheduled after today's event in order to make the atmosphere fruitful and fulfilling.
The archery teams were also sitting down not far from skaters as they were all anticipating this theatrical finale.
Back in the locker rooms, the Magic Six were finally changed and ready as several other swimmers were prepared likewise. With most of the rosters written in Kanji, Sandro still couldn't figure out what it was saying except for his name pointed in plain English.
However, what stumped him a bit more was that…the five of them were all dressed in the blue-black jackets but not him. Moments later, the said jacket and pants were given to him.
"B-but I…" Sandro said, struggling on whether to accept this or not.
"It's not yours but regardless, we want you to wear this to show the uniform with us," Rin said, "The committee is fine with it."
"Um, okay," he replied, changing up while the others waited on him. Once he was done, they were in a subtle aw of his appearance.
"It's a little big on me…" Sandro shrugged, "It must be one of the others."
"Don't overthink about it," Haruka said to him, "Just follow us…to victory."
"But I still don't know what we're doing," he answered, "What is this race about?"
"It'll be quite the performance for sure!" Nagisa grinned.
"Heh, don't take it that easy," Seijuurou warned them, "We do have Albert and Kaede in our group."
Oh dear, Sandro thought, for sure, this will be the hardest race! I didn't make it to the final cut yet here I am…what is going on?
"There's nothing to fear," Rei answered.
"Make sure you can keep up with me, honey," Kyle winked.
"Wait, y-you're on the same team as Albert's?" he asked.
"Well…that's up for you to find out," the husband smirked softly.
"Oh, come on!" he replied.
"Have faith in yourself, in us, and everyone that loves you," Makoto said to him.
"Remember why you swim," Rin concludes the pep talk, "And show what you are made of…and we'll make our way to victory."
They started to make their way to the hallways but…
"Wait…" Sandro answered, looking at the five, 'Haru, Makoto, Nagisa, Rin…Rei…there's something I do need to say to the five of you…before we head out."
"Oh?" Rei looks at him. The other four paused in their tracks to see their beloved dragon swimmer making a fist bump greeting.
"We'll meet you all out there," Seijuurou said.
"Don't take too long," Kaede reminded them.
The other swimmers headed out, leaving the six of them here in this locker room area.
"Are you alright?" Nagisa asked.
It's like how we first met back then, they all shown me love, he thought, now it's my turn to tell them.
"I'm not good at this but…I need to speak up," Sandro answered, "It's imperative to get this out of my heart."
They form a hexagonal-circle formation with their fists linked together as the dragon swimmer looks at the five, "Haruka, Makoto, Nagisa, Rin, Rei…when I first met you and everyone in Iwatobi many years ago, I was, mentally, not in a very good place. Everything I expressed was vindictive, deceitful, and unrelenting. These traits made me become my very own villain who hurt a lot of people…including the five of you. I dumped all my problems, my baggage, my venting, all onto your shoulders which ultimately destroyed us.
Memories of the past could be seen as they all remembered that day when he first arrived in Iwatobi with his heart darkened. Yet, his aura captivated them because of his story as a swimmer. The journey from Tokyo, Los Angeles, Rome, and more were all coming back.
Indeed, it almost feels like it was just yesterday when he first came into their lives and already, he was under their wings instantly. Despite this, that darkness lured them all around as they were drawn into each other both in combat and in sexual encounters.
With his own courage, he continues,
"After our rebirth in Terabithia, while separated, I still struggled to express my true love for swimming. Instead, it was only a means to an end thanks to my narcissism. The drugs…the lies…the fallouts with my family and friends…all that almost killed me a second time. Thus, those days of swimming were not real."
His head recalls his swimming days in Arizona and taking on the Olympics before being nearly killed by the drugs. He briefly wiped his moistened eyes and continued while keeping his voice still calm:
"Flash forward to now, I lost early on during this season, probably as comeuppance for my misdeeds. Regardless, it still hurts that I could not proceed in the competition with the rest of you. However, if this race is a second chance, I'm going to give it all I have left. After our Resurrection, I promised that we would all swim again. I may not be a champion this time but, this is our future together we've longed for.
For a moment, they could feel like they were all standing beneath the Sakura Tree in a white-void area with the blossoms spreading the petals. Finally, the dragon swimmer confesses his apology:
"I…I can't apologize ever enough after everything that has happened between us. All of you have been through so much for me, for each other, and many more, never giving up in the slightest. And now, with all of my heart, I hope this race…will finally show you all…my truest feelings!"
"S-Sandro-chan," Nagisa answered softly as they all smiled at their dragon member. The latter wiped his face of tears before looking at them.
"We'll tell you one thing about this race," Haruka makes a small smile, "It is a medley, and we're very happy that you can join us on it."
"A lot of people will be swimming together," Makoto added.
Four of us, 8 or 10 lanes, Sandro thought.
"Regardless, this will be something very special," Haruka continued, "We'll lead you over to the block."
"Yeah," Sandro bumps a fist circle with them, "I want to show the world my true feelings."
"Let's win this today!" Rei said.
"Together with our friends!" Nagisa smiled.
"We're certainly at the peak!" Rin grins as they were back in reality mode.
With that, the teams emerged from the lockers, heading to their assigned lanes. The competitive ones were between lanes 4, 5, and 6 but there were other filler teams too as 'volunteers' to make this race official as planned. The audience roared in excitement as it was now the final showdown.
So many people, Sandro thought, this wasn't like that on Earth, no….
"Oh my god so many people!" Shouyou gasped.
"This…isn't the typical race like the other ones," Kourai narrowed his eyes.
"It's apparently a beta-test from what I've heard," Ushijima said, "But regardless, we will cheer them all forth."
"Amazing…" Atsumu breathed.
"Hope this works out well for them," Osamu crossed his arms.
"Does anyone know how they even got this approved?" Bokuto asked, "I thought relays were only in teams with…"
"Hush! That's a surprise!" Tobio elbowed him a bit.
"Hey…I was just asking!" Bokuto sighed loudly.
"Well, not everyone in the audience knows what will happen with this race," Aran added, "But regardless of who wins…I'm sure something will come out of it…"
Shinsuke nodded as Sachiro smiles a little, excited to see where this is going to go. The soccer folks sat in a different area of the bleachers as they were observing this 'festivity' taking place.
More people arrived in the seating areas as visitors from the afterlife realm were also in discreet areas away from the normal eye. They too, were extremely fascinated to know what would happen here.
The Gen 1.0 Magic Six team sat down as Gen 1.0!Alex smirked softly, "Well then…let's see how much of their training has paid off."
"This is gonna be fun!" Gen 1.0!Nagisa grinned.
"Remember, we can't disrupt too much of the space-time here," Gen 1.0!Makoto reminded them.
Gen 1.0!Haruka kept his usual quiet self while Gen 1.0!Rin crosses his arms with his signature smile of the shark teeth.
Pandora arrived with Dodecadron, Artemis, Apollo, and Rasputin and sat nearby likewise. The former was carefully sitting down as she looked at her abdomen, "Um honey…I don't know how much time left I got."
"If we have to go, we'll head back," he said.
"Please don't let it be another set of…" Apollo begins.
"Don't, JINX it," Artemis glares at the twin while Pandora makes a nervous sweat drop.
"You know, I once teased my other son about this…the Olympics, while trying to destroy everything," Pandora recalled, "And well…here we are. A version of him…experiencing this at last. I want to see him, fulfill that dream."
Nearby, the former Kings of Atlantis took their seating along with the Generation of Miracles and some of the Gen 1.0 Volleyball gang from the Old Sportsbrooke in a similar fashion of discretion.
"A sight to behold…" King Ulysses grins his shark teeth.
"It'll be a very memorable moment for everyone," Neo King Julius smiled.
"I'm glad well…they finally made peace with the powers beyond," King Antonius said.
"Do they still have magic?" King Poseidon asked.
"I'm not sure, and I'm not going to worry about it," Julius replied, "This is their day."
"They definitely deserved it all and then some," King Suijin smiled.
"I agree, a true beauty…" King Romulus nodded.
The Samezuka Trio kings exchanged their looks of smiles and assent.
All the people in the audience continued to cheer in excitement and anticipation as all the swimmers were now aligning themselves for this "Special Edition" event. There were special posters and all sorts of colorful decorations all around as if this was a party.
The Magic Six aligned themselves in Lane 5 in their assigned order while Lane 4 consisted of Momotarou, Ai, Hikaru, Tsubasa, Kotarou, and Kyle. Lane 6 was a group with Sousuke, Ikuya, Asahi, Seijuurou, Albert, and Kaede.
The other lanes had other swimmers mixed from Lha'li, Neo Sportsbrooke, and whoever else filled in. As for Shin, Aoba, Natsuya, Isana, and Nao, they sat in the very front row of the stadium. Ryouta also sat next to Shin.
This relay, Sandro thought, what's going on? It's not the traditional 4 people.
His mind flashed to that brief moment when Rin said that this was something 'special'. He also recalled that 600m writing on that fancy artwork model. Was it...?
They look at each other with nods of determination. With that, the presentation was about to begin.
Makoto dipped himself into the waters as he could feel the thrill of this race finally happening between him and his teammates. To his right was Sousuke and to the left was Momotarou, each of them determined to win the gold.
"Take your marks…"
"BEEP!"
At last, the backstroke swimmers pushed off the walls with their arches like rainbows after an endless storm, diving into the water and unleashing their arms in powerful circles with legs propelling forward.
"MAKO-CHANNNNN!" Nagisa screamed.
"MOMOTAROUUUU!" Ai cheered him on.
"SOUSUKEEEEE!" Asahi and Ikuya called out.
"What a strong start!" Shouyou gasped.
"This will be an intense match for sure!" Atsumu agreed.
"This is the moment of history being made," Nao smiled.
"A race that no one will ever forget," Natsuya narrated.
Makoto was propelling very strongly across the waters as he was neck to neck with Sousuke and Momotarou, heading to the wall. The olive-oiled haired man knew the truth about this race but even still, it was an opportunity for him and his team…especially for their final member.
The trio were approaching the wall to make their flip turn.
"My god they are performing so well!" Hikaru gasped, "A close race!"
"Heh, don't get yourself too loose," Asahi winked, "This genius is gonna take home the gold!"
"That's if my shark teeth don't sink to you first," Rin smirked.
"Ueah?!" Asahi grunted.
"Rei made that same reaction long ago," the red-haired chuckled briefly.
Momotarou makes the flip turn first followed by Sousuke and Makoto as the orange-haired was starting to take into the lead. Ai was smiling to see how much the youngest Mikoshiba improved throughout the entire training regimen.
Makoto, upon pushing from the wall unleashed his legs at his potential, reaching neck to neck on Momotarou with Sousuke not far behind. For a moment, he thought he saw a great star shining on him, setting his imagination come to life…
While out in the middle of the ocean, walking endlessly, a big wave of water was approaching him as he was dressed in his green and white 'prince' cloak. Without hesitation, he raised his hand to stop it, revealing a younger version of himself holding a Chrysanthemum and a silent tear.
"I-It's you…or rather…me?" he softly gasped.
The younger version` looks up, "Please accept this…I don't want to be alone anymore."
"You won't be," he said to his younger self, accepting the flower, "Because I know…that you will succeed in more ways than one!"
"My dream…I want to keep on swimming too," the little one said to him, "It's a fun sport…and I was able to meet everyone through it. I feel like I am connected to the water somehow even though I don't know what my future will be."
"W-where are you from?" Makoto asked.
"A story where…we swim happily like you," the younger self winks, "I hope to one day train swimmers and be their supporter."
Makoto gasped to see what looked like a version of himself standing behind the little kid, dressed in a blue-white coat with pink and yellow subtle lines.
"T-those coats!" he gasped.
"MAKOTO!" Haruka and Rin shouted.
"MAKOTO-SENPAIIIIII!" Rei cried out.
"MAKO-CHANNN!" Nagisa cheered on again.
M-My heart, it's telling me, Sandro thought before he cried out, "MAKOTO!"
Whatever this vision was…he was sure that in another reality, there was sincere happiness. With that, he picked up the speed in the race as he was still neck to neck with Momotarou, finally utilizing the arms fully to approach the wall.
Nagisa, Ai, and Ikuya stepped forth on their blocks and readied their positions for their teammates to strike the wall.
"I'm finally honored to challenge you both," Ai said, "You better be ready for me!"
"Hehe, good luck facing off Ai-chan, Iku-chan!" Nagisa chuckled to them.
"You and I may have both icy animal spirits but don't let mines fool you," Ikuya answered, "I'm not backing down."
The backstroke trio were still neck to neck with Momotarou slightly in the lead followed by Makoto and Sousuke. This race is certainly one to be spoke in legends to come…
Momotarou strikes the wall, "AI-SENPAIIII!"
Makoto makes it likewise, "NAGISAAAA!"
Sousuke cries out afterwards, "IKUYAAAAA!"
The next trio dove into the water, performing their breaststroke across the pool. Asahi, Hikaru, and Haruka helped Sousuke, Momotarou, and Makoto respectively out.
"You did great!" Seijuurou grins at Sousuke.
"Good performance! We're still keeping up," Hikaru noted to Momotarou.
"Let's keep on cheering," Haruka nodded to Makoto.
"Right," Makoto smiled.
"Look at them go!" Reki was in awe.
"They're totally neck in neck with each other," Cherry Blossom commented.
"But only one team will win…right?" Joe asked.
"According to this itinerary, it appears that it's an official match," Tadashi looked at the paperwork.
"But a relay of six people?" Ainosuke seemed a bit confused.
Back down below, someone else was thinking the same thing. Standing among the rest of the swimmers, he began to put two and two together.
"It looks like we may have accomplished the task," Natsuya noted, "But at the same time, will he remain focus?"
"Let them help," Nao said, "They know what they're doing."
T-this race, Sandro thought as he observed this, it's different...I feel like…?
"Something wrong?" Rei asked.
He shook his head, "I'm intrigued by this…"
"Good," Rin smiled with a wink, "Because we're gonna need all of yourself in the water on the last leg."
"E-Eh?!" he gasped, "I-I don't understand…"
"NAGISA!" Rei cheered the blond with Makoto and Haruka.
"KEEP GOING AI-SENPAI!" Momo cheered his teammates.
"SHOW THEM ALL, IKUYA!" Seijuurou shouted.
"IKUYAAAAA!" Asahi cried out.
Nagisa makes his breathes ins and outs, up and down with the water along with Aiichirou and Ikuya. Ai was taking the lead very slightly as he was neck to neck with Ikuya. However, it didn't stop the blond from pushing onwards.
The blonde's vision changed as he now saw himself with a younger version of Rin, Haruka, and Makoto sitting together late at night to watch the stars. They were all dressed in their Elementary Swim team ISC jackets.
The younger Nagisa smiles and answers, "My dream…is to be friends with everyone forever! I want to have fun and smile more often and just have fun swimming! That's why I am happy when we got a chance to watch the stars together like this…so I can love all of you!"
More memories of their swimming days were emerging both in Iwatobi and on Duniya. While it was true that a lot of hardships have happened, these happier, precious memories have prevailed and hold a deeper meaning of life.
"Hehe," the present day Nagisa grinned as he was now swimming among a massive Orca. He grabbed on its fin and feel himself flying faster and faster towards a great light ahead. In the light was another version of himself dressed in a yellow, blue, and navy jacket and a pink shirt standing side by side with Kaede and Kotetsu but also in the same blue-white jacket and pants that Haruka was wearing earlier…
Back in reality, the blond arrives at the wall, making his turn with Ai and Ikuya before finally pushing forward to take the lead.
"H-he's taking the lead!" Rei gasped.
"NAGISAAAA!" Haruka, Makoto, and Alex cheered him on.
"FIGHT ON, AI-SENPAI!" Momo yelled.
"YOU GOT THIS IKUYA!" Albert cried out.
Rin, Asahi, and Hikaru were now taking their positions on the block, readying themselves to perform the first butterfly set. The latter, while specialized in free, volunteered to train in butterfly for further experience as well as to help contribute to this very day.
"I am…a genius…I am…a genius," Asahi muttered his lines.
"You talking to yourself again?" Hikaru asked.
"No," Asahi said as he kept on chanting his lines.
"Heh, you two better keep up with this shark," Rin grinned as he pulls back his goggle's band to make the snap effect on the swim cap.
So loud too, Hikaru thought, I don't know what's worse…?
Ikuya, Ai, and Nagisa were neck-to-neck again as the former two were finally catching up. However, the blond readied his arms to extend and reach out further, hoping to make an inch closer.
Finally, they each strike at the walls in the following:
"RIN-CHAAANNN!" Nagisa shouted.
"ASAHHHHIIII!" Ikuya cried out.
"HIKARU-SAAANN!" Ai added.
The next three dove in with their mermaid-like kicks and their entire arms rotating in big circles while raising and lowering their bodies like a push-up as the first part of the butterfly segment begins. Rei helps Nagisa out of the water while Sousuke assists Ikuya and Momotarou reaching Ai's hand.
"ASAHHIIIIII!" Seijuurou shouted with Kaede and Albert.
"HIKARUUUU!" Tsubasa, Kotarou, and Kyle added their cheers.
"GO HIKARUUUU!" Isana cheered on from the bleachers.
"RIIIINNNNN!" Makoto, Haruka, and Sandro cried out in their support.
"Heh, I never imagined how fun it is to mix up the teams a little," Kotarou grinned.
"Yeah," Kyle agreed.
Sandro looks at Kyle with a slight curiosity. Could he possibly know what is happening? What was the purpose of this race? True, he never swam with people back in his earlier days on Terabithia but his heart…it was feeling different.
He was about to ask but Haruka rests his hand on the shoulder, "Focus."
"R-right," he said, "I just…have too many questions on what is happening. Like what did Rin meant by that earlier?"
"Sometimes, you have to face the unknown…like how you saved us all back then," Rei added, "When I first started to swim, I had a lot of questions…but eventually I found my answers."
"I just…know something is up," he replied, "A medley team is technically a set of four people."
"True," Haruka answered, "However, today is different. Look at the teams around you. It's not like anyone is breaking the rules."
"Something new and fun to try, how's that?" Rei smiled, "But remember to keep believing in yourself."
"And also, you just told us that wish to put all your feelings into this," Haruka added, "Just like I did yesterday in the other medley relay."
He nodded, "Alright. I'll keep my ground. I won't let anyone of us down!"
Rin was definitely taking a slight lead, but no doubt Asahi and Hikaru were mere moments behind him. This relay, this race, was something indeed, truly special. While he and Sousuke, Ikuya, and Haruka won yesterday's final medley relay for the gold as official teammates, this project was planned out in secret.
Finally, the world in the water brightens up for Rin as he could see a younger version of himself running across the water before transforming to his middle school self, then his high school self, finally his current adult form with a red-white and black jacket. Realizing this was another version of himself, he could only pray and hope that he too…finds his happy ending.
He was then accompanied by several butterflies, leading him to the light.
In reality, Rin makes the flip turn along with Asahi and Hikaru, making their way back to the teams calling out to them. Asahi was now in the slight lead but not too far.
The vision continues as the little Rin says to the younger Makoto, Nagisa and Haruka, "My dream is to make it to the pros and win the gold! Swim with me to the world Haru!"
The current Rin makes a wide grin as his heart was definitely feeling love and happiness. Pushing onwards, he catches up, making his path to victory.
Rei finally gets on the diving block along with Seijuurou and Tsubasa.
"Heh, you blue heads better be ready!" Sei smirked.
"Oh, I know I am," Tsubasa winked.
"I expect nothing less," Rei agreed.
The first set of the butterfly trio were approaching the wall closer and closer.
You got this Rei-chan, Nagisa smiled to himself.
Rei bends over properly along with Tsubasa and Seijuurou as they all wait for their respective teammates to strike the wall.
Finally, the trio hit the wall as they each shouted the following:
"REIIIIII!" Rin cries out.
"TSUBASA!" Hikaru called out.
"SEIJUUROU!" Asahi answered after getting his breath out.
The next trio make their dive into the water as the visual shows butterfly wings on them before dissolving into the water upon impact the diving.
Now, this second set of butterfly race begins…
"REI-CHANNNNN!" Nagisa calls out while Haruka assists Rin getting up.
"REEIIIIII!" Makoto cheered on.
"GO GET 'EM SEI!" Albert, Sousuke and Ikuya answered as Kaede assisted Asahi out.
"TSUBASA!" Kotarou, Kyle, and Momotarou answered.
"They're all neck to neck still," Ai muttered, amazed, "This is going to be a tough one!"
Rei was somewhat struggling between second and third as Seijuurou was definitely in the lead though not by much. Tsubasa was certainly gaining momentum. Rei's mind was so much filled with all the events that took place in his life…from his first meeting with Alex, to the betrayal in Italy, the redemption in Articora, his struggle on feelings and his interactions with others…and losing his eye to Chaos…
But today, was a far happier day…this was no time to dwell. He knew that all his efforts have indeed brought him back to this team. More so, being able to swim with the five most precious people…his heart could feel a flame igniting.
Finally, the waters showed him another vision, bringing him to the grassy fields of Articora where the four spirits waited for him.
"Y-You guys?!" he gasped.
"Master, it is time you become now whole again…" Arizona said.
"W-whole…?" Rei asked, "W-wait, you don't mean?!"
"Your other half left you a gift…the last piece of love that you gave to him," Iwatobi revealed.
"But if I do take it back, won't it cause a rift between them?" Rei looks at them.
"The future is yet to be decided…for now, take this piece and use it to bend your strength…unlock your potential to its fullest," Mayfield answered.
The sphere of light shows a younger version of himself holding a symbolic heart of love. The current Rei looks at his younger self who was offering his heart back.
"I promise…I will use this lost love and make it into a will that will strengthen our team!" Rei answered as he takes both his hands to clasp with his younger self's.
Back in reality, Rei feels his heart finally ignited fully once more…as he now pushes himself forward faster towards the wall before making a very strong flip turn, shocking both Seijuurou and Tsubasa as he was now in…
"HE'S IN THE LEAD!" Nagisa gasped, "REI-CHANNNNNN!"
"KEEP GOING!" Rin, Makoto, and Haruka shouted.
"DON'T STOP!" Sandro shouted.
Rei could feel the love in all of them, even Alex…now with this final piece of his feelings back into place. With all of his strength he bursts even faster to the wall.
Haruka gets on the block and readies himself. Albert and Kotarou also prepare to dive in as the former makes a small grin of acknowledgement.
"Swim to your true self," Haruka says to Albert.
"Right," he smiles.
"Heh, you both better be ready," Kotarou added.
Time was ticking away between the competitors as everyone was eager to see the outcome of this race. At the right moment, Rei strikes the wall.
"HARUKA-SENPAIIIIIII!" he screamed.
Split moments after, the other two reached the wall and they shouted.
"ALBERTTT!" Seijuurou answered.
"KOTAROUUUU!" Tsubasa cried out.
Albert makes a strong dive in and was going at such high speed after Haruka. Kotarou wasn't far behind but both him and Haruka were now facing off against a very fast freestyle swimmer. However, that didn't stop Haruka as he was making sure that all his special training from Natsuya and Nao would build up to this moment.
"Oh dear, looks like Albert has taken on a good race too!" Ryouta gasped.
"It will certainly be a great test for the main heroes," Shin winked.
The white-creamed hair man was still in the lead, but Haruka was not giving up on this. Kotarou was also gaining momentum as they were approaching the first wall.
"HARU-CHANNNNN!" Nagisa shouted.
"HARU!" Rin and Makoto added their voices.
Alex assisted Rei out as the latter gasped on his own heartbeat but smiled and said, "Thank you."
"You did fabulous," he replied.
"And soon it'll be yours," Rei answered.
"Just now I was able to get you out without any shocks," Alex noted.
"Well…I say it's because our love for swimming and for our team has helped us significantly," Rei said, "After all…this race…"
"This…race?" he asked.
"Ehhh um, never mind that for now. Keep focus and get yourself ready. Haruka-senpai is gonna call you once he reaches back," Rei informed him, "Our team needs you to make it to the finish line."
He nods as they continued to cheer on. Haruka had faced many struggles during this training especially when he was working with Albert. Not to mention Kaede taking matters into his own hands to make the medley team but…
He was still afraid of himself in the water, Haruka realized, just like I was…water…is a living thing…like the Mizu Gods. It may bare its fangs but…you can't be afraid of it…
Haruka and Albert were neck to neck in first as Kotarou was just sneaking up likewise. They finally flip turned on the wall together as they blasted their way back to the other side.
Finally, Haruka's visuals around him show five spirit animals consisting of the butterfly, penguin, shark, orca, and the koi carp. They glowed before revealing themselves as Rei, Nagisa, Rin, Makoto, and Alex respectively soaring side by side with him.
In front of him, a bright star shines on him, showing a world where he too…was a swimmer who fought his way to the top…from the humble beginnings in Iwatobi Elementary…to the challenges in Iwatobi Middle and High Schools…his advancing career in Hidaka and finally the Olympics with setbacks and achievements.
"You and I…are the same," the Olympic!Haruka greets him, "In every realm…"
"You're right, we are both one with the water," the current Haruka replied, "Thank you…for allowing another version of me to exist…somewhere."
"My encounter with you is brief and I sadly won't remember it due to space-time continuum, but I'll know deep in my heart…that we swim for those we hold dear," he answered.
The current Haruka sees all versions of himself in that other reality and nods, concluding, "The water…is our friend. Never give up on it."
Back in reality, Haruka pushes himself forward on his freestyle, finally getting closer and closer to the wall. Alex grips himself carefully on the block along with Kaede and to his surprise…
K-Kyle, he thought, I-I don't believe it. No! I have to stay focus!
I may be your husband but we're gonna face each other off in this water, Kyle thought, give it your best shot, sexy dragon!
My freestyle will shut both you lovebirds up, Kaede grinned to himself.
"H-honey, is he's gonna go in?" the mother gasped.
"It looks like it," the father watches their older son.
"S-sandro…" Sergi breathes out his name quietly as he looks at the pages of the book now showing the new text and images from this race.
Albert strikes the wall, answering, "KAEDEEEEE!"
"KYLLEEEEE!" Kotarou shouts after reaching the wall likewise.
Haruka grasped his hands to the wall, taking his breath on the surface and shouting to the final team member, "SANDROOOO!"
The final swimmer dove in with full force, awing everyone in the process as time almost stopped in midair but it was certainly reality. He struck the water, made his undercurve before hitting the surface on his freestyle.
"Good start," Nao narrowed his eyes.
"Let us hope that this is all what we have hoped for," Natsuya muttered.
"Perfect dive," Rin noted.
"He's really back into his element," Nagisa smiled.
"Brother…" Sergi clasped his hands in prayer, "Please be happy no matter what the outcome!"
"Pootsie," the mother smiled.
"This is definitely a real race this time," the father watched with anticipation.
Makoto helped Haru out of the water safely. They watched as their swimmer was neck to neck with Kyle and Kaede.
"Such a heated race," Albert commented before looking at Haru, "Thank you for swimming with me, again."
Haruka smiled and replied, "I look forward to another one, someday."
"Sounds like you're finally getting the hang of it," Rin grinned.
"Let's cheer our teammate home," Rei focused back on reality.
"Right!" Nagisa noted, "SANDRO-CHANNNN!"
The three medley teams shouted to their respective freestyle swimmers out to the water.
Kaede was about to pass both Kyle and Alex but noticed that the latter had tireless legs as if he were a machine of some sort.
Tch, the neon-orange haired man thought, let's see how you can handle my free!
Come on Sandro, Kyle added his thoughts, you need to win this race! I'm giving you all what I got! Beat us fair and square!
Both Kaede and Kyle did pass him up slightly as they were now getting closer to the wall to make their flip turn. The STYLE FIVE gasped, fearing that something is bothering their teammate between the waves.
Finally, a glimpse of a star reached out to the final swimmer as he extended his hand out towards the light. Moments later, he found himself running across the seemingly still Niagara River with several yards away from the Horseshoe Falls back at the border of the United States and Canada.
"W-what is…?" he muttered, slowing down his run-in confusion.
Moments later, a bunch of Koi Carp were jumping out and splashing back in. Taking a fast look at the waterfalls, they were not moving…almost like frozen in time. He saw a series of rocks that looked like it was possible to climb on.
Without realizing it, he ran his way over to start his way climbing. Each step caused the water to start to slowly move again. Worried that he would be blown away by the strong hydro forces, Alex thought of the things that mattered to him…his family, his friends, the successes, the failures, everything…
I-I can't give up now, he thought, not after everything…that we've gone through!
The waters started to move faster and faster, but Sandro was determined to get to the top. Suddenly, he saw a flash of color as one of the Koi Carp followed him up likewise before it started to transform into a powerful sea dragon.
T-that dragon, he realized, it's the one when I used to unleash my old magical attack!
With a nod, he leaps onto it as they both reached the top together…
Finally, he reaches the upper river and got off from the steed. However, upon realizing where he was standing, it was out in the middle of an 'ocean' with no land in sight. At first, he was blinded by the great light until a warm, soft breeze filled in with three cherry blossom flowers drifting past him until they began to manifest themselves into…
"A-all of you!?" he gasped.
"Indeed," Gen 1.0!Alex greeted him as he was dressed in his yellow and white cloak, "You have done far better than me…or anyone of us could imagine."
He nodded as he saw Neo King Julius smiling likewise, "You have saved everyone, the future, and helped Artemis and Apollo make peace with Cosmos and Chaos. Because of that, you have released all of us from the great burden of the war."
"But I lost all my magic," the swimmer replied.
"You don't need that kind of magic for something like today," Neo King Julius smiled, "The truth is, your own smile brings the greatest magic of all."
"Have no need to fret or regret of the past," the DM!King Alexander added, "For now, you have a race to finish…and realize that dream with everyone!"
Sandro nodded as he turned around to see the STYLE FIVE but all of them were in their Elementary forms as four of them were dressed in the white and sea green Iwatobi SC jackets with Rei dressed in a cream-colored sweater with black pants and a red bowtie.
He then realized himself being a little kid too again with a black jacket and the white paw print of Mayfield. Behind him was a darker, pale version of the world of water but in front of him was, pure, bright, and colorful.
"There's no need to be afraid anymore. The water has always been with you," Haruka said.
"We're all here together now. All thanks to you," Makoto smiled.
"Swim with us to the world, Sandro! Let's win this and get to the gold!" Rin cheered widely.
"We are waiting for you at the end of the journey," Rei and Nagisa greeted.
My first dream was to love and forgive myself, he thought before he reached out both his hands to them, answering out loud, "Now my dream…to swim among with all of you together in this new journey!"
"Why is it your destiny to swim?" said the voice of Suiei Cosmos echoing all around.
"I swim to achieve…NIRVANA!" Sandro cries out, pushing further to reach the STYLE FIVE, "TO BE AT PEACE, TOGETHER!"
All their little hands touched at last as a new birth of light sealed their fates….
In reality, the waters shifted as the STYLE FIVE sensed their final teammate catching up to Kaede and Kyle at his fullest potential.
"S-Sandro-chan…" Nagisa breathed.
"He's finally…here!" Makoto gasped.
Haruka smiled as Rin and Rei anticipated with excitement as their final teammate was passing both Kyle and Kaede like butter.
"ALMOST THERE!" Rin shouted.
"KEEP GOING!" Rei cried out loud.
"SANDRO!" Haruka, Makoto, and Nagisa added their voices to the race.
"POOTSIE!" the mother cheered on.
"GO GET 'EM!" the father shouted loudly.
"FATHERRRRRRRRR!" Anastasia and the girls screamed.
"BROTHERRRRRRRRR!" Sergi screamed with a couple of tears.
Sandro gasped as he could feel the voices reaching him as the imagery now shows all of the swimming guardians together in the same peaceful, scenic calm waters with the skies as heavenly and welcoming. They were all dressed in white-blue coats, pants and/or their respective swim trunks with strips of colors decorated around.
"COME HOME, YOUR MAJESTY!" they all shouted.
The final swimmer roared out a charging cry with the dragons and koi carp swimming explosively side-by-side, determined to finally settle everything once and for all with the scenery changed back to reality.
They were now at the last several yards before hitting the wall. This hopeful energy pushed him to finally reach with Kaede and Kyle as the trio were now about to make history. The trio splashed their way to the final moments, determining the winner of the last race.
At the strike of all their arms, the teams reached the wall with the results of the race pending in seconds. Alex breathes out to gasp his air as time stopped for several moments. Meanwhile, the audience roared in applause as a warm hand rested on his shoulders. Kyle guided him to look at the timer board above to see the score:
Magic Six: 1st GOLD, 5 mins. 6 seconds. 92 milliseconds.
His eyes widened in sheer shock, registering this moment of victory. Kyle smiled as Kaede smirked a grin-like despite not winning first.
"You won," Kyle congratulated him after taking a few breaths to calm his husband, "At long last."
"…I…I did it, I…" he breathed with tears finally pouring from his eyes as Kyle hugged him from the side at first.
"I'm so proud of you…my love," the husband spilled a happy tear as he turned to him before finally grasping for a hug likewise. Both the parents and Sergi were also teary in their eyes to see their beloved finally making this victorious end.
"Kyle…let's do this again," he answered, looking at him, "So you can win gold too."
"You know I will, sexy dragon," Kyle replied with a wink.
With that, their respective team members pulled them out of the water as Haruka and Rei helped their dragon swimmer out while Seijuurou assisted Kaede and Kotarou helping Kyle. Aoba finally gets a hold of Momotarou with a hug as the latter thanked him for the support.
"You all did great, I'm happy to see you swim," Aoba said.
"Hopefully we can do this together someday," he winked back.
"It would've been interesting if I was in the same line as you," Kotarou looks at his son.
"Uhhhh let's not," Kaede said.
Sandro looks at the five team members glistering with tears of joy before they all finally leap in for a group hug one by one. Everyone in the audience watched the scene with happiness as the Magic Six looked at each other finally and took a moment to breathe with victorious moment.
"That was amazing Sandro," Rin begins with voice cracking emotions, "Your final free of this swimming was like a miracle meant to be made!"
"You were truly fantastic out there, swimming the way you were as your true self!" Nagisa looks at him.
"Such a beautiful sight, this was our best tournament," Rei answered, "We swam together to make a wish come true!"
"We did it," Sandro looks at them, "We finally…did it. I-I can't even…t-this is…"
He hugs them again while crying out with his emotions on full blast as he stumbles between the words, "T-thank you…for m-making this…a reality…"
"Oh Sandro-chan," Nagisa replies, gently rubbing him on the back.
"Your hard work and your passion both finally made this day possible," Haruka added.
"We're all proud of you…not just us," Makoto added, "Everyone in the audience, and all the other swimmers from the other cities too..."
They released the hug again as Sandro wipes his face off the tears before taking a few deep breaths as Haruka rested his hand on the former's shoulder.
"I honestly never thought I'd earned this second chance," he replied as his voice slightly cracked with emotions he hadn't felt since the Resurrection of this team, "And also, I finally found the reason why it was my destiny to swim!"
"And what would that be?" Nagisa asked.
"To be rid of my desire, anger, and delusional…" he revealed, "To achieve Nirvana for myself and everyone who I love."
"Nirvana…huh," Rei muttered with fascination.
"Yes...so that we never again have to suffer. Sounds crazy I know but…" Sandro answers, "Ever since the whole battle against the Shadow Achaemenian, I couldn't bear to lose any and all of you. This is our reality now and I will do my very best to keep moving forward with all of you, as a friend and as a swimmer!"
"You really changed so many lives more than you realized," Rin said.
The other swimmers smiled in awe before they joined the group, showing their appreciation.
"We're glad you were able to swim with all of us," Asahi answered.
"Even if we do teams like this, we are all still together as a community," Ikuya smiled.
"Hehe, remind me to join you on a future medley sometime!" Momo chuckled.
"Hold your horses there, Momo," Ai reminded him with a wink.
"What he's saying is that your love of swimming has really brought every one of us back together," Sousuke concluded.
"Y-you guys…" the dragon swimmer breathed while wiping his tears off. His heart raced so much in shock, awe, and joy he hadn't felt since the resurrection of the team. With a nod between each other, Haruka and Rei approached their dragon member of the team side by side.
"Sandro," Haruka replied, "This race…was made by all of us, both our team and the others dedicated to you."
"T-to me…?" he looks at the duo with widened eyes, "I-I am grateful for this but…I don't know the occasion. I-I mean…"
"It's all for you; being a part of our lives…through the best, worst, and everything between. Without you, none of us would have been here today," the dark-navy haired swimmer revealed.
"So, to give appreciation of our thanks, we have something for you in recognition," Rei smiled.
"W-wait what?!" he gasped as they led him over to where the other swimmers were at by a table. A big red tablecloth was covering something beneath. The Iwamara swimmers carefully each took a piece of the edge of fabric to avoid knocking anything off while the others gathered around to watch. Some of the photographers and the media were recording this very moment.
On three, the team unveiled a crystal plaque written on there with a message and autographs of all the senshi. There were also six gold medals crafted especially for this team with their names etched out via laser. Beneath Alex's medal was also a set of the blue, white, pink, and yellow swim team jacket and pants, and right next to it was the Blue-Black National Swim Team (in his correct size), and finally Red, White, and Black version to the left.
"T-This is…!?" he gasped, almost ready to cry again.
"Go read the message," Haru instructed him.
"Read it through the microphone so everyone can hear you too," Rei hands over a headset.
With a nod, the dragon swimmer places it on before taking the crystal plaque, looking at the message before reading it aloud for everyone to listen:
"Thank you for showing every one of us what love is…
And healing yourself with it along the way, never giving up.
Congratulations on making all the dreams come true.
May you continue to ensure your success and endeavors.
But most importantly…
Carry that star of love, happiness, and forgiveness no matter what.
With love from everyone, all of us…"
-Iwamara Swim World & Planet Duniya-
He paused for a moment to wipe the tears, taking off the headset in sheer awe and emotional to receive such an honor like this. He turned to the other swimmers as they were all proud of him.
"While this race hasn't been fully validated yet, it was approved by the committee to use as a test run. And you have accomplished so much in a short period of time," Nao said, "In addition, your performance today was record-breaking even to your previous stats from training."
"And thus, it is with great pleasure that we now invite you, Sandro, to become our final member of the National Swim Team. With that, you qualify for future Olympic races and other competitions in the Swim World under the IOC standards," Natsuya concluded.
Sandro softly gasped at this offer from the entire swim team. A chance to swim with them…winning this race, and now a commemorative celebration of forgiveness as well as becoming an official member of the team for future events?
Everyone in the audience got all emotional as they also knew what was happening behind the scenes. Sandro looks up to see his family on the right with all happiness on their faces. He looks at all the swimmers from Iwamara, Lha'li, and Neo Sportsbrooke as well as the other athletes in the audience with their families and friends.
More people were also present here, including his Mayfielder classmates, his former human enemies (some appeared in spiritual form). All the allies from Suizei and the other senshi that were formerly brainwashed, all cured. Even Kyle's healed friends stood at their seats. Every, single, one…all happy and at peace together.
Realizing that he has finally fulfilled his road to redemption and many more, his face breaks the flood completely with so many emotions, all finally set free. His heart and brain were now one with endless euphoria. Setting the plaque down and the headset on the table, he opens his arms out to Haruka, Rei, Makoto, Nagisa, and Rin. They finally reach this grand conclusion of the Swimming Olympics.
He leaped into Haruka's and Rei's arms directly as the others joined in. All their faces were too, sharing the same feeling of such a happy ending and beginning.
Above gleams a heavenly, full spectrum on everyone and everything that touched as the Koi Carp completed the transformation. He now stands as the final Dragon form with majestic, endless, beauty of colors and patterns. Together with sublime beatitudo, this surreal emotion radiates to other lands with joy, love, all with the greatest light shine.
"T-thank you…every one of you, for everything! I'm sincerely elated and forever honored in being a part of your world!" he cries with his voice cracked with the purest love, "I, I love you all, always and forever!"
"We love you too, all of us," Makoto smiled with a tear.
"We'll always be with you," Rei answered while breathing happily with tears.
"We are forever connected by our love of swimming, the water, and our dreams," Haruka added with his softness tone.
"We're happy you are with us too!" Nagisa agreed.
"For the team, you'll always be one of us," Rin added.
The group continued to share their circle hug with the happiest joys of tears and bliss as the audience extended all the applause and cheers. History was indeed made here at long last…that future has finally arrived.
He turned to Kyle afterwards as they both shared a brief kiss. Nao handed over the Finale World jacket to Sandro as the others readied their outfits likewise.
With that, the Magic Six each donned their gold medals and were bestowed with flowers. The media crew took pictures of them as they all smiled genuinely for the cameras. They did a set with their swimsuits on with the medals and flowers and another version with the finale blue-white jackets.
From there, more pictures were taken including all the other teams and races from the days prior to. This was a pure accomplishment that no one could ever imagine possible. From fighting the witches, to defeating the three fates, and confronting Chaos in its undiluted form…well…this is indeed a true legend for generations to come.
Not to mention breaking an endless cycle of war that was burdened to them and their past generations.
Both of the parents, the girls, and his brother joined in for a family photo as they all happily shared this great finale…or rather, a happy beginning.
"I knew you'd make your dream," Sergi said.
"Thank you…Sergi," he replied, "For never giving up on me."
He turns to his parents, hugging them both, "I-I did it! Mama, Papa!"
"We're so happy for you pootsie!" his mother wiped her face of joyful tears.
"This is certainly a day to remember," the father agrees.
"You finally did it, father!" Anastasia smiled, "Without anything in your way."
"A-Ana…" his face continues to mist from the tears as they both hugged for a moment. The rest of the girls joined in right after, all crying with joy.
"You were amazing out there," Maya added.
"It was truly a sight to behold," Niki smiled.
"We'll catch up though eventually," Laura winks, "So expect more gold in this family, heh!"
"And we'll support you girls too," Kyle answered.
"Wait…Kyle…what about you?" he looks at him with a little sadness.
"Don't worry about me. This was a very important journey for you. I'll work hard and get to the team by the next Olympics," he winks, "I'll take the silver today. But don't take it too easy now okay, hehe."
The stadium rained an explosion of confetti and cherry blossom petals with music playing in the background to commence the conclusion of the Swimming Olympics portion of Olympius Duniya. Moments later, a series of fireworks flashed in the skies.
The audience members watched with their own teary eyes as several of the volleyball folks cried happily in their arms.
"What a surprise indeed…" Osamu observed.
"Their happiness was far beyond overdue," Oikawa agreed, wiping his own tears back.
Iwaizumi kept a wide smile as Sakusa nods with his own rare happiness. Kuroo and Kenma were also happy to see this beautiful ending.
"I can't wait to start our matches!" Shouyou grinned.
"We will make it as fabulous!" Atsumu smiled, wiping his tears.
"Better be ready for us too," Ushijima winks, "A great match will be happening."
"It's like a movie but even better…" Sachiro smiled.
"Couldn't agree more," Kourai nods.
"They truly deserved all this," Aran agreed.
"Absolutely," Shinsuke smiled.
In a different area of the bleachers, the skater folks were also just taking this whole scene in with breathtaking and in awe.
"He's really found himself where he belongs," Langa smiled.
"Incredible…" Reki wipes a tear off, "I can't put it into more words…"
"A well-deserved ending…or a new, happier beginning," Cherry added.
Miya was trying hard to not cry but Shadow was already wiping his tears off with Oka supporting him. Joe turned to Cherry, Tadashi and Ainosuke with a nod.
"A race that will be spoken in legends," Tadashi noted.
"So, this is what love truly is…" Ainosuke breathed, seeing this example before his eyes as Tadashi held his hand to keep him calm and composed.
"It's one of many…of course that is for the good," he replied.
"Dammit, don't cry…don't cry…" Kazu muttered to himself but a warm hand from his recent fiancée softened him up as he took out a handkerchief to blow his nose.
"What a beautiful ending…" Seiya said.
"No, this is definitely a new beginning," Minato smiled.
"Indeed," Masaki wiped his tears off, "They truly have inspired so many."
"I never thought I'd be tearing up like this," Eisuke tried not to show his tears, but Shuu made a soft chuckle.
"God, why am I crying over a bunch of swimmers? Isagi muttered.
"That was quite a performance," Reo said.
"Indeed," Ryusei agreed as Sae nodded.
After the dismissal of the audience, there were surprise visitors from the afterlife realm including Neo King Julius and his men greeted the swimmers and congratulated all of them. The Gen 1.0 Magic Six team gave their greetings likewise to their respective selves.
"So…this really wasn't a dream!" Gen 3.0!Alex looked at his other variations, "You were both here this entire time!"
"Even if we are long gone, your support is always among us," Neo King Julius smiled, "We are always with you…in your heart."
"I am truly proud of you especially," Gen 1.0!Alex answered, "I may not have been a successful, full-time swimmer but, hopefully someday…our story…will inspire many others both here and beyond."
"I'm sure it will," Gen 3.0!Alex replied, "I know you had some moments of swimming too, and no doubt you also have inspired others. Even when we are long gone…I know it will echo out in space…between Chaos and Cosmos."
"Continue your journey, and someday, we'll be together for the rest of eternity," Neo King Julius blessed him.
With that, the Gen 1.0 team and the Gen 2.0 Kings bid their farewell to the Gen 3.0 folks, thanking them for being a part of this beautiful history. A soft glow emitted on all of them as they were all returning back to Idaina Magna.
Everyone watched as the departure light softly exploded with smaller star-like orbs gently raining down upon them.
Hours Later: Celebratory Banquet
After returning to Iwamara, the swimmers along with their families and friends gathered up at Iwamara Beach as Dodecadron, Osamu and other food vendors prepared a massive banquet to celebrate the completion of the first ever Olympics. Mama Marotta also had her own Italian dishes prepared.
To their unexpected surprise, several of the other sports teams decorated the area with posters of each of the teams that swam as well as individual races.
"Don't worry about our schedule, we have already set this arrangement," Iwaizumi said.
"This is your time to celebrate," Cherry agreed.
"This…is incredible," Rei breathed.
"Hehe, a surprise indeed!" Seijuurou grinned.
"It truly is wonderful," Makoto smiled.
"Thank you everyone!" Nagisa wipes the joyful tears.
"Don't forget to support us too, alright!?" Shouyou asked.
"We will!" Momotarou answered.
"Mama, this is incredible," Sandro turns to his family, "Grazie mille!"
As everyone celebrated during the sunset, the lights were put up with a few torch posts to keep the area illuminated. Everyone brought the atmosphere with joy and happiness as well as some ambitions and dreams to fulfill, hoping to inspire this world with their love and passion in their talents.
At one point, the Iwasame Senshi along with Asahi and Ikuya sat on the sands close to the water as Alex was among them with Kyle, Sergi, and Cali. The girls were hanging out with the grandparents and Roxana in the meantime. Some of the other sports players brought board games while a few showed off their talents on the sands.
In the meantime, the senshi saw the pictures appearing in the book of earlier in the day's events.
"With an incredible victory, the Magic Six team wins their Olympic Race, surpassing their ancestors and inspiring new swimmers to join this sport."
"The Final Reckoning…has concluded. Chaos and Cosmos are no longer tied to their burdens. All their magic has been inactivated but no matter what future lies ahead, there is always hope."
"Truly beautiful," Rei smiled.
"That was such a race indeed!" Rin agreed.
"These last few days were just…surreal," Sousuke smiled.
"It's like…a movie but real," Kyle remarked.
"I hate to cut this in but…anyone gonna tell me how all this happened? This relay?" Alex asked, "Please?"
"What do you think guys? Should we tell him?" Ikuya asked.
"He did ask politely," Momotarou winked.
"Who wants to start then?" Makoto asked.
"Natsuya and Nao sort of came up with it," Asahi revealed, "They found some notes apparently and after a bit of research, they found the older generation storyline…in there was a medley race of six people with times recorded."
"We wanted to keep it a surprise," Haruka added, "As a means of motivation."
"All the clothes, the medals, and the plaque was made on a private commission," Ikuya added.
"As difficult as this was for you to swim without any advantages, I always knew you'd make your way to the top," Kyle said, "As you said…the solo races will take time but when you're with friends…well…it adds its own magic."
"Well that definitely worked," Alex chuckled, "And in all seriousness, I am truly happy we did this. A relay of four people may be traditional. However, this is a new world, it's not like the old reality."
"Actually…there is one person out there who played a key role in this operation for us," Rin added, "Someone closest to you, Sandro."
"Closest to me…" he begins but softly gasps upon realizing.
He turned to his brother who smiled with a nod as once again, the older Marotta begins to tear up and hugs him, "Y-You did all this…for me?!"
"I am your brother," Sergi replied, "That will always be first before being an author. I discovered the story of the past first yeah…and gave it to Natsuya and Nao. From there that's how everything played out. I may not be able to write a happy ending, but I know how to guide people in that right direction."
"I could never ask for another brother, who inspired me so much," Sandro answered, "Thank you…for being a major part of my life…through our ups and downs…"
"You're welcome," he smiled.
"I am happy we all swam together too," Rei said, "It felt like as if…well…our story was coming to a close."
"Nah, I think this is just the beginning of something new, Rei-chan," Nagisa winked.
"You're right, I really don't like endings," Ai said, "It would mean that our story…our lives would be over then."
With a nod, Sandro looks at his wedding band that he and Kyle have been married to. A lot of things happened these last several days…from starting the Olympics, to the destruction, the quest to Suizei and the final battle against Memnon and Chaos.
Even still, there was quite a bit of unfinished business left as he could feel all the emotions around him yearning.
"Is something wrong?" Kyle asked.
"Kyle...when I was swimming earlier…I felt so many emotions," he said before looking at the others, "My love has grown so much since the day I saved everyone back at the Edge of the Omniverse."
He looks at them and adds, "Because of that, I cannot wait to see what the future will hold…for all of us. Win or lose…what matters more is that everyone is here, happily together."
"So then, what's next?" Nagisa asked.
Everyone looked up to the night skies, all wondering about that same question indeed…the world was all in their hands now.
"I think…something bigger is on the way yet," Sandro said, "But I'll only do it if you guys…want to take this next step with me…together."
The skies above filled up with stars that were once absorbed by Chaos. Now each piece of light was a free entity. At one point, some could see the arm of a galaxy shimmering the space. True, while this story may feel like ending, Sandro could only imagine what was in store to come, from swimming, to this newly created marriage, new missions, new teammates, and many more.
Muchuude sagashi teta
Ano hibi e omoi hasenagara imaaaaa
In the days that followed, the swimmers supported their volleyball friends, soccer folks, the archery guys, and the skaters, cheering them to win their own rounds. The world was certainly at peace…without the burden of Chaos and Cosmos.
The Mizu Gods were certainly proud of their human counterparts to finally fulfill "The Final Reckoning" but they all know too that Chaos will one day start again in a new era.
After all, this is the law between the will of Chaos and Cosmos. All creation faces destruction. But every destruction will find a rebirth.
Thus, the story of swimming still continues…with many more opportunities and challenges to grow from.
Whoaaaaa…whoaaaa…. Whoaaaa…ohhhh
Whoaaaaa…whoaaaa…. Whoaaaa…ohhh…whoaaaah
In the days that followed after the Olympics, we see the Iwasame gang traveling the world together with Sandro and Kyle in safari-like vehicles, exploring other parts of the planet never seen. They were accompanied by the Chivashi along with Ainosuke and Tadashi as a tour guide/protecting agent.
Boku ga mita mono to
Hisshide te o nobashite tsukanda koto wa
Ano hi touku mieta saki mo
Shinjite tsukuriageta michi wa
During this, we see Seijuurou finally proposing to Tsubasa as Toto barked happily with the rest of the Takagami gang celebrating the engagement.
We then see Reki, Langa along with Miya and Takashi all hanging out together with Koyomi at Joe's Sia La Luce e La Vita. Following this, the visuals change into the kingdom of Frostella in its new golden era.
(Kakurete ita no ka? Son'na ganbou sae mo)
Hitotsu ni nari
(He'll be fine, you'll be fine, and I'll be alright too)
(Soushitsu kushita n janai)
(Torimodoshita dake)
Saranaru mirai e tsunagaru
(Without, without even saying goodbye)
During this, the visuals transform into Natsuya, Nao, Aoba, Makoto and Seijuurou all training and assisting the newcoming swimmers including Takashi, the Suizei Quartet.
In addition, the five former extraterrestrial Swimming Guardians also made their permanent homes here in Neo Sportsbrooke. Each house is a custom-made based from the elements of their old planets.
We'll take you to the top
(Days confusion ever free)
Motometa hikari e tadori tsuite
(Come through my heart)
Tsugi no tabiji e to mada...
You're breaking down the wall
(Find delight in this silent)
Sumiwataru ano basho de
Tagai ga ima eranda michi e to mata
(Days confusion ever free)
We'll never ever stop
Meanwhile, the Mizu Temple in Iwamara has expanded more space, allowing more stuff for the Mizu Gods to utilize and hold artifacts, legends, and other memories from the water.
Stay cool
This story will never be over
Because this blue will never fade, never!
A visual of Aoba and Momotarou is seen with the former finally proposing the latter for marriage at the Sunrise Park of Neo Sportsbrooke. They were both happily engaged with Momotarou cheering his infamous "YAH-HOO!"
Aratana tobira o aite
Kagayaku ashita e susumi daseba
(Kakushite ita no ka? Son'na ganbou sae mo)
From there, a visual of Apollo and Kotetsu are seen walking on the Iwamara beach, holding hands as they were now dating officially. In addition, Zulion and Takela are also in the picture with Kuroo and Kenma. A symbolic spirit of Suiei Cosmos could be seen soaring high above the heavens and stars.
Kawaku kaze ga mata
(He'll be fine, you'll be fine and I'll be alright too)
(Soushitsu kushita n janai torimodoshita dake)
Tobikomu hizashi suikonde
(Without, without even saying goodbye)
At a different time, Sandro and Kyle were with the family as they were all camping out somewhere near Frostella. The girls were being their silly selves, causing a bit of chaos around the park as they were debating about how to not get their clothes dirty.
We'll take you to the top
(Days confusion ever free)
Motometa hikari e tadori tsuite
(Come through my heart)
Tsugi no tabiji e to mada...
Finally, we see all the swimmers getting trained again after some time as each and every one of them were ready to keep their momentum. Those that have yet to win a medal were indeed changing their ways and learning from their past mistakes.
You're breaking down the wall
(Find delight in this silent)
Sumiwataru ano basho de
Tagai ga ima
Eranda michi e to mata
(Days confusion ever free)
We'll never ever stop!
On Beta!Earth, we see the traffic going on in Phoenix, Arizona as the young Cytotech is driving in his car with the song "This Fading Blue" on full blast especially at the climax of the lyrics:
(Hey! We'll take to the top!)
TAKE ME, TO THE…TOOOOOOPPPPPPPPPPP!
(Hey!)
On Alpha!Earth, we see Makoto finding Haruka in Hungary by a river in the Budapest. Haru turns to see him as they briefly catch up on some stuff happening since Fukuoka.
Kitaitofuan ga mazaru nogarenai kanjou wa
Aratana hajimari o tsugeru akashi sa
Mata mayoikon demo
Ano hibi ga tadashii michi o terasudarou
Finally, Haruka makes it to a rail crossroad where he sees Rin as the train passes by them. Once it was clear, they also stated their dreams and wondered about the future beyond…
We'll take you to the top
Touku ni kanji tako no keshiki o
Ima kimi to mi teru no sa
Back in Idaina Magna, the afterlife realm, we see the Gen 1.0!cast happily celebrating their descendants achieving the impossible. It was indeed a sight of happiness and peace that was long overdue.
We'll take you to the top
(Days confusion ever free)
Kage shita nozomi e mune o hareba
(Come through my heart)
Ashita ga mata sakete mieru
Finally, on Duniya, at the Aquatics Global arena, we see different decorations, mostly white and some rainbowy colors accent throughout. What is going on? How much time passed there? A set of uniforms were seen with varying-colored ties to match certain individuals.
We'll take you to the top
(Days confusion ever free)
Motometa hikari no naka tadori tsukeba
(Find delight in this silent)
Sonotoki mata aeru-sa
(Come through my heart)
We'll never ever stop
-This Fading Blue, OLDCODEX-