Chapter Text
A little introduction to Olympic terms used in my story:
IOC: The International Olympic Committee is the Olympic Games' guardian and the Olympic Movement's leader.
NOC: National Official Committee. NOCs are responsible for organizing their nation’s participation in the Olympic Games. So, there are 206 NOCs, one for each of the 206 participating countries.
If an athlete has the problem, they don’t address the IOC but they turn to their country’s NOC for help. In my story, Cherry and Joe are both NOCs (although in reality there’s only one), so they are responsible for the Japanese athletes.
“Langa, let’s go. We’ll get your board back now. Come on!”
Langa nodded, and they headed for the building where the participant’s equipment was situated.
“Wait, you two idiots!” Joe and Cherry said in unison, each grabbing one of their shoulders.
“What do you think you’re doing?” Besides, that location is not where you can resolve this. The people in the building who store the equipment are just regular employees. They don’t have any say in this,” Joe scolded them, shaking his head in disbelief.
Cherry reluctantly admitted, “I can’t believe I’m saying this, but Kojiro is right.”
“So, we agree? How boring!” Joe smirked at Cherry, who pushed an elbow into his ribs in response, making him gasp for air.
“The employees there don’t have the authority to ban Langa’s board. The IOC and the World Sports Association have already accepted your boards. Withdrawing that decision can only be done by someone who is way above their pay grade and has much more influence,” Cherry elaborated.
“Doesn’t matter. We’ll still make sure Langa’s board gets accepted. It’s not against the rules to have spinning tracks. The rules only say the trucks must be attached to the board!” Reki shot back, louder than he had intended.
“Huh?” Joe asked, looking at him as if he had talked to him in a different language.
“A skateboard consists of a deck with four wheels attached by trucks. There are no limitations on the shape, materials, or size of the skateboard or its parts. The skateboard cannot be attached to a skater's feet by any physical means. Technical Specifications And Materials for Skateboards, page 12.”
Everyone’s mouths dropped open in amazement when he perfectly quoted the part about the requirements and specifications of skateboards from the Competition Rules of Skateboarding published by the World Skateboarding Commission.
Langa smiled at him from the side, and he returned it immediately before looking around from face to face. He enjoyed their stunned faces, proud of himself and grinning from ear to ear. He knew he loved this way too much but couldn't help but savor the moment.
Langa looked at him with widening blue eyes with a trace of green and that rare soft smile he always got when he did something that impressed him. Seeing that expression on his face alone was totally worth it.
He also loved that Langa wasn’t surprised at all. It was about skating, so Langa knew no one would have broader knowledge than he did. So, he was the only one who gave him an admiring but knowing smile.
Reki was amazed at why everyone else seemed so shocked. When it came to skateboarding, he was an expert. While he might not have been the most motivated student, he did what was necessary to maintain decent grades. However, he delved deep into something when he was passionate about it. He even went as far as reading books and boring explanation guides about the Olympics, especially since Langa didn't bother with them. For Langa, skating was his main focus. That's why he only researched the skating grounds and, of course, the restaurants at the Olympic Village.
Miya, standing next to Cherry, suddenly bent closer to him.
“Wait a minute, you mean Reki, who hasn't even read a single book in his life, has read two guides consisting of around 100 pages voluntarily and actually remembered it so well he can quote it back to someone?” Miya whispered into Cherry’s ear, still completely stunned.
“If it involves skating, Reki’s obsession knows no limits. And this time, his passion for skateboarding could save Langa.”, Cherry stated rationally. Miya stared at Reki for a moment longer, then slowly nodded in agreement.
Reki had heard their conversation and rolled his eyes dramatically, first at Miya, then at everyone else, before scrolling down his phone and showing them a PDF file.
“Please read the specific details outlined in the World Skateboarding Commission’s Competition Rules, particularly the section titled Technical Specifications And Materials for Skateboards, on page 12,” he began, annoyed that no one had even bothered to look at the rules. He had been so excited to participate that he had read and watched anything about the Olympics he could get his hands on.
“According to the rules, the tracks must be attached to the board. However, there are no restrictions on the shape, materials, or size of the skateboard or its components. As long as Langa’s tracks are attached to the board and he doesn’t fix his feet to the board with duct tape again, his board and participation must be accepted. This means that even if I designed Langa’s board in the form of a triangle and equipped it with square-shaped wheels, it would still be within the acceptable standards for the competition,” he explained impatiently. “Am I really the only one who read the rules here?”
“Yes,“ Miya said, smirking in his direction. “It’s over a hundred pages long, after all. I fell asleep while reading it.”
“Not true! The Skateboarding competition rules are only 36 pages long, and the more general explanatory guide consists of 56 pages. I counted on it that Langa wouldn't read it, but from a pro skater like yourself, I expected a more professional attitude, Miya.”
Miya just shrugged. “ I have a coach who tells me the most essential things. And Langa has you to summarize them for him. Problem solved.”
“You should still read the guides about the Olympics like Reki did,” Joe scolded them. “They also explain essential things like accommodation, food, public transport, transfers from and to the Olympic Village, and the different buildings here.”
“Why bother?” Miya said, crossing his arms in defiance. “It’s boring as hell. I only looked up where the skating grounds are and how I‘ll get there.”
“You wouldn’t ask that if you had read about the game center they have here,” Reki said, giving him the most mischievous grin he could muster. “They also have activities and places to spend our free time, you know?”
“There’s a game center? Really?” Miya asked with wide, sparkling eyes before recovering his calm composure and stubborn attitude. “Well, of course, I’ve already known that,” he declared, crossing his arms.
“Of course you did,” Reki smirked at him, ruffling through his hair. If you're nice to me, I’ll tell you where to find it. They have countless Arcade and TV games in the electronic games room. If you had paid attention to Joe and Cherry during our tour around the village, you’d already know where it is.
“I told you to stop that! Don’t treat me like one of your little siblings!” Reki just grinned at him.
“Your sparkling green eyes always give you away. You should be more honest. By the way, Koyomi, Nanaka, and Chihiro behave much better than you. They know how to be honest and say please and thank you.”
“Shut up and rather tell us how we’re gonna fix the issue with Langa’s board,” he stubbornly changed the topic. Luckily for him, it was easy to change the subject this time since the matter with Langa’s skateboard was urgent, and they could waste no more time.
“That’s easy. I’ll slam the damn competition rules into their faces or whack those old geezers with it until they accept Langa’s board. They can’t reject a board just because they’ve never seen one like it. Langa’s board is special. He’s the only one who can wield it. And it’s unique and was made for him. So, of course, they have never seen a board like that. But how is their lack of knowledge our fault? Have they even read their own stupid rules? Or were they drunk when they agreed on them?” he exclaimed angrily, getting impatient. He had assumed the Olympics stood for fairness. Apparently, he had been wrong.
“Reki, calm down, ok? Your hotheadedness will only get both of you disqualified. If you want to compete with Langa, hide your anger, ok?” Joe scolded him, putting a hand on his shoulder.
“I’d like to see that,” Miya chuckled, which earned him a dirty look from Reki and a hit on the head with his fan from Cherry, who stood between him and Langa.
“Miya, unlike you, Reki tries to help find a solution here, even if he’s a bit impulsive,” Cherry chastised him.
Then, he turned to Joe. “So, what now?" How do we solve this? Any ideas?”
“It’s complicated. The boards have already been registered; the IOC and the World Skate Sports Department have checked and accepted them. Their decision is final. So, declaring Langa’s board illegal after acceptance is highly unusual. I suspect some foul play here. Still, even if we’re on the National Olympic Committee and responsible for the Japanese athletes here, we can’t influence such decisions. Getting them to take back their claim before the start of the Games will be difficult.”
“Carla, how does an athlete make a claim if he’s treated unfairly?”
“Yes, because a damn machine will save us from our dilemma now,” Joe exclaimed, his voice dripping with sarcasm while he glared at Cherry.
“It’s not a machine. She’s Carla and much smarter than you’ll ever be, dimwit!” Cherry immediately shot back. Their death glares and the electric sparks flying between them could have easily supplied the whole Olympic Village with electricity during the Olympic Games.
Reki wondered who in the world had had the brilliant idea to invite those two to the Olympic Village together, given their unforgettable history at past Olympic Games. Maybe they had assumed they had grown out of it as adults. Grave mistake on their part. Although he had to admit that they somehow always pulled themselves together if the situation required it, just like now.
Or maybe they just stopped because Carla’s answer interrupted them.
‘If a participant wants to make a claim, he can do the following to contact or address someone:
• In a written form to the hands of the competition secretary.
• Or via an official email address to WS Sports Department.
The World Skate Competition Secretary and the World Skate Sports Department will seek correction and notify about the changes without any unnecessary delays within the next five days.’
“You gotta be kidding me! I have to write a damn e-mail? When I get a reply, the Olympic Games will already be over! Our first competition is in two days!” Reki exclaimed furiously, casting Carla a death glare.
Langa put a hand on his shoulder. “Calm down, Reki. I’m sure Joe, Cherry, or maybe Manager Oka will have another idea. Right?” He looked at them questioningly.
The three looked at each other, then at Langa, and nodded in confirmation.
“Well, basically, Carla’s right. All claims go through your country’s NOC and therefore through Joe and Cherry as Japan’s representatives and have to be sent in written form,” Oka confirmed.
“But - “ Langa said, utterly calm as always, “Reki’s right. There’s no time. We have to talk to someone in person to solve this quickly. As Reki said, our first competition is in two days. And we have a scheduled practice today and tomorrow where we have to participate.”
“We all know who’s behind that, right?” Cherry asked while glancing at Joe, who nodded in agreement.
“I’m lost. What the hell is going on?” Reki asked, glancing from Cherry to Joe to Oka before looking at Langa and Miya, who just shrugged, as clueless as him.
“Do you know who one of the biggest sponsors of the Olympics is in Tokyo?” Cherry asked them.
He, Miya, and Langa all stared at him blankly, then shook their heads in unison. They were athletes and didn’t care about politics, sponsors, and media coverage. All they wanted was to skate.
“The Okinawa prefecture headquarters,” Cherry declared matter-of-factly. When the three of them only reacted with blank faces, Cherry continued.
“Or, in short, Adam sponsors it. I’m sure he has his hands in it,” Joe added thoughtfully, all humor gone instantly.
“But why?” Miya asked, more interested now. “He doesn’t even take part.”
“Yes, because he can’t. He was banned from participating in several Olympic Games, resulting in a lifelong ban from entering the Olympics.”
“Why?” Langa asked.
“Langa, what do you mean why?” Reki exclaimed in disbelief. “Even you should know that hitting people with your skateboard is not in accordance with the ideals the Olympics stand for!” Reki reminded him, shaking his head.
“Reki’s right,” Joe agreed. “Besides, Adam has always been mixed up in shady business deals. The IOC wouldn’t let someone participate as an athlete or accept a sponsor who is rumored to be mixed up in illegal activities.”
“Adam tried to bribe and threaten people to win or cover up his dirty tricks, here at the Olympics and as a politician, even going so far as blaming someone else if he was caught without batting an eyelash. Several of his political enemies took the fall in his place, were wrongly accused or subtly removed from office,” Cherry continued in an earnest tone.
“Skaters and politicians who accused him always withdrew their accusations after a few days, not daring to go against Adam and his rich and powerful family. No one could ever prove anything, so he has never been arrested. His violation of the rules was undeniable, though. At such a great event as the Olympics, someone is always taking photos, filming, or interviewing someone. It’s brimming with journalists here since the Olympics fascinate the world, and people crave to learn any news or rumors. Even his family dared not go against the IOC when they had solid proof for their lifelong ban. Going against the IOC would have made the news and destroyed the stellar reputation they try to uphold. Still, circulating rumors about Adam or his family don’t make him exactly a poster boy for the Olympics who stands for fairness, respect, friendship, and excellence.”
“Exactly. However, the Olympics would still take the money as a sponsor, but only because the party is the official sponsor, not him personally,” Oka clarified, who had remained silent until now. He had watched their discussion with interest but hadn’t intervened.
“Think about it. For him, who thinks he’s a far superior skater, your participation at the Olympics is a provocation in itself. So, he tried to ruin the Olympics for you. If Langa’s skateboard gets rejected, Reki will be disqualified, too, since he designed the skateboard. I don’t think his target was Miya because Adam acknowledged his talent and wanted to see how far he could go as a professional athlete at such a young age.”
“That’s more of an insult coming from him,” Miya muttered quietly.
“However, Adam knows that his scheme probably won’t work if the claim comes from someone with a lifelong ban. So, he probably used someone else to meddle. He’s too smart to leave evidence that leads to him.
“I’m sure he knew his scheme wouldn’t work. Adam just loves messing with people and destroying their lives,” Cherry elaborated further, looking at each of them in turn. “For him, it’s enough to stir up some trouble. I don’t think that he targeted anyone specific. He’s just toying with us for his own entertainment.”
“Kaoru’s right. Adam knows that friends and families are watching, so getting you disqualified before the first competition would make the headlines, and you’d disappoint everyone and embarrass yourselves,” Joe continued with some concern. “And he knows that we don’t have friends in high positions here as he does, so we’re powerless against him.”
“True. And an athlete who was disqualified has to fly back home immediately. So, we’d have to fly back to Okinawa,” Reki reminded them darkly.
“We’d have to fly back immediately? But our parents are watching. My mom was so proud when she learned I got to participate in the Olympics…”
Langa looked utterly shocked. He looked so devastatingly sad that it broke his heart. Tears prickled at his eyes, a rare sight. Langa’s emotions usually weren’t visible on his face. It revealed now how much the Olympics meant to him. His dad had probably hoped he could participate one day. He probably also did it for him.
Reki took Langa's hand and smiled at him encouragingly. “Don’t worry, Langa. I’ll never let that happen, I promise.”
Langa just nodded, and a tiny smile danced across his features.
Reki turned to Oka and looked at him.
“Manager Oka, you’re the expert here. You’re a legend in the skateboarding world and have the most experience. So, how do we solve this? We need your help and expertise. Please!” Reki begged, bowing to him while making Langa do the same.
“Well, basically, we need someone from the higher-ups to solve this—someone at the IOC or the World Skate Sports Department. I don’t know any IOC members directly, but I know some influential people at the World Skate Sports Department. If you manage to convince them, you’ve won,” Oka declared rationally.
“Well, can we talk to them? Cherry and I don’t know anyone like that, even though we're NOCs and, therefore, responsible for the Japanese athletes here. But we have to go through the official channels, and, as already mentioned, that would take too long.”
“Please only speak for yourself. However, I must admit that I know only the people responsible for the cultural part—the artists and entertainers participating in the Parade of Nations.”
“See? Dumb tech freak! I know people in administration responsible for food deliveries, transport, and supplies, as well as other people working at the restaurants. But we need someone higher up in the ranks to beat Adam’s schemes.”
“Let me make a few calls,” Oka said while already dialing a number, moving a few meters away from them to talk in private.
After ten more minutes, which felt like a lifetime to Reki, he finally hung up with the last person he had called and walked over to them.
“Well, here’s what we can do. You can talk to someone higher up in the World Skate Sports Department. They have a conference now. I convinced them to allow you to let you make your claim after the conference. The Skateboarding Sports manager Murakami is among them. Don’t take him lightly. He has 35 years of experience in skateboarding. He worked at skateboard retail stores, was a coach and athlete manager, and held many major skateboarding events and competitions in Japan. Convince him, and the problem will be solved.”
He suddenly approached, met his eyes, and touched his shoulder.
“Now, it’s your turn, Reki. You’ll explain the situation to them.”
“What? You can’t be serious! Why me?” Reki exclaimed in horror, his voice much louder than he had intended. Even he had heard the raw panic in his voice.
“Why don’t you do it? Why does it have to be me? And in front of so many people? I’ll probably faint from nervousness when faced with them. I’ve never talked to a chairperson or something on that level! I’m a student, goddammit, not a lawyer or a politician. And Langa’s fate is in my hands…”
He suddenly got nervous and noticed his hands starting to tremble. He clenched them into fists and put them in his hoodie’s pockets to hide his anxiety while looking down at the ground. He had promised Langa that he would save him. Could he really do it? What if he failed, and Langa would be disqualified? He’d never forgive himself for that…
Oka placed a hand on his shoulder, and he relaxed a little. He probably saw how he was slowly panicking at the thought of discussing such a serious topic with someone far above him. That was not something you learned at school…
Oka met his gaze and gripped his shoulder more firmly.
“Reki, it has to be you. You’re the only one who can do it. First, you’re the only one who knows the rules inside out. Second, you created Langa’s board and know everything about it. Third, you know Langa’s skating style best since you taught him skateboarding. So, you’re perfect for explaining the situation.”
“But – what if I fail?” Reki asked, noticing how his voice trembled. Handling such a situation was way above his power…
“Reki, you won’t fail. Tell them that you and Langa are my students. That way, people listen to you because I’m highly respected in the skateboarding world. So, as my student, the same goes for you. But please tell them you created the board under my supervision. You did work on it in my workshop, so it’s partially true. That will give your arguments more strength. And I’ll confirm everything you say, ok? We’ll make it happen. Together.” Oka smiled encouragingly at him.
“We’ll help you, too, if you get in trouble. Don’t worry, Reki. You’re not alone,” Joe reminded him, putting him in a wrist lock so he could barely breathe.
“Kojiro, I don’t think choking him will help us in this situation,” Cherry reprimanded him, whacking him with his fan.
“Shut up. His panic is gone, so it worked,” Joe immediately shot back.
“Reki, you can do it. I believe in you,” Langa stated, perfectly calm, intertwining his hand with his, smiling.
“We all do,” Joe added with an encouraging smile, then winked at him. “You're our only chance here. You know the rules and regulations of skateboarding like no one else. Only you can save Langa.”
He paused momentarily and then looked at him with such intensity that Reki was startled for a fraction of a second.
“Reki, please, don’t lose your temper. Stay calm and polite, and listen to their arguments—even if they’re arrogant or difficult to deal with. Don’t interrupt them. Listen to their opinions and only then contradict them and state your reasons for doing so. Hide your anger. An emotional outburst won’t get you anywhere. Stay objective and polite, and make a solid argument,” he advised him, meeting his eyes and making sure he listened to him.
“So, basically, be Langa,” Miya said, smirking.
“Miya, this isn’t the time for that,” Cherry chastised him. “But Miya isn’t wrong. Langa always stays calm and collected no matter what. He’s a good example if you want to succeed.”
“You can do it. If you succeed, I will promote you from slime to hero for one day,” Miya declared, yet his humor was gone. He also knew how serious this situation was. And even if he pretended otherwise, he cared for Reki and Langa.
“And don’t worry. You don't have to stand in a conference room with many other people for long. We’ll meet more casually at the skating grounds after that. And my acquaintance will bring Langa’s board because practical experience is better than any theory. They'd agree faster if they learned that this board doesn’t go straight and other skaters are at a disadvantage when wielding it. And if Langa shows off his skills, they’ll be impressed. They’d never reject anyone if they see true talent. Their passion is sport, after all.”
“Great idea, Oka!”
_______________
Reki has never been this nervous in his entire life. He knew he wasn’t alone, but if he made a mistake or lost control over his emotions, Langa’s chance at the Olympics and their dream of competing against each other in the final race would be over.
Langa put an arm around his shoulder. “Reki, calm down. You can do it. You’re my teacher, remember? I’m only here because of you. You’re my hero, and I believe in you unconditionally. No one knows as much about skating as you do. That’s one of your greatest skills. So, prove it to them. Show them what you’re capable of.”
Langa smiled encouragingly at him, but it faded quickly. Suddenly, his eyes turned to a darker shade of ocean blue while he stared down at the ground, which he usually did when he felt guilty and regretted.
“I’m sorry that I can’t help you, Reki. I should have read the rules and taken them seriously like you did. But Manager Oka’s right. If I told them myself they were wrong, they’d think I only wanted to save myself and would say anything to defend myself. They wouldn’t believe me since I’m the accused here.”
Determination rushed through him at Langa’s words. He cupped his chin and lifted it to look into his eyes, then nodded. Langa was right. He could do it. He’d save Langa, and then, they’d have fun at the Olympics.
“I know. Langa, don’t worry. I’ll make our dream come true. I really want to see you compete here, and I’ll do anything to convince them!” He gave him a thumbs-up and grinned encouragingly at him. Still, he wanted this to be over as soon as possible.
Langa probably still saw how he slightly hesitated, so he added one last thing. Langa was a great observer, so he immediately noticed even the tiniest changes in his mood, even if he tried to cover them up.
“Reki, I know you can do it! Remember that you’re invincible in theory and practice regarding skateboarding.”
Langa’s words and his confidence in him cheered him up instantly. “Leave it to me!”
They waited for the conference to be over and for Oka’s acquaintance from the World Skate Sports Department to arrive at the skating grounds. Mr. Murakami and his colleague, Mr. Ogawa, were dressed in an expensive suit despite the warm temperatures. They both bowed, and they all did the same. Oka thanked them for staying, agreeing to hear their claim, and bringing Langa’s board with them.
Reki had learned that Mr. Ogawa was the Skateboarding Technical Operations Manager. Oka hadn’t told him those two were at the top of the World Skate Sports Department, which only made him more nervous.
“Oka, what is this all about? You know we're especially busy with the Olympics starting today. We have many responsibilities here and can’t waste time with such a minor inconvenience.
Minor inconvenience? Is that what that was to them? How could they be so arrogant when they were the ones at fault? Reki hated people like that. People who thought that they could do anything and were beyond the law just because they held a high position at the Olympics. He wanted to tell them where they could shove their arrogant and egotistical attitudes, but Langa put a hand on his shoulder and shook his head, so he just gulped down his anger and calmed down, remembering Joe’s words. He couldn’t screw this up.
“It’s about the board you declared illegal after the IOC had always approved its use. That’s highly unusual, and it has never happened before.”
“What are you insinuating? Are you accusing us of foul play?” Ogawa asked, suspicion all over his face while glaring at them.
Oka shook his head, utterly unimpressed and not intimidated at all. He seemed to know both of them and knew he held an equally important position here.
“No, of course not. But I’d like to hear an explanation. And I’m sure the board's owner, Langa Hasegawa, who also happens to be my student along with Reki Kyan, would also like an answer.” He pointed at both of them with his hand.
“Your students, huh? If you accept them as students, they must be pretty talented.”
Oka smiled and nodded slightly.
“They are. They have great potential as skateboarders and skateboard designers. I have high hopes for them at the Olympics. So, you must understand that I was shocked to hear that Mr. Hasegawa’s board was banned without any explanation.”
“I see. That makes sense. Since you vouch for them, we’ll tell you the details and how it led to this situation. We received an anonymous tip that stated that Mr. Hasegawa’s board was suspected of manipulation, so that it would give him an unfair advantage. Langa’s board was different in size, and the tracks were attached weirdly. It’s an unusual board. Although I admit that the claim sounded suspicious to me…”
“Reki Kyan, my other student, designed the board. Under my supervision, of course. Langa’s dad also participated in the Olympics, competing in skateboarding and snowboarding.
Langa swallowed hard and tensed up but didn't say anything, remembering to stay out of this discussion. When he turned around to him, Reki saw the surprise in his widening eyes. And he felt his tension because the grip on his shoulder was firmer now, his hand trembling a little. So, he hadn’t known that…
Reki gave him a reassuring smile, and he relaxed again. Oka wouldn’t lie about something like that. You could discover it was a lie too quickly since there was an official record of former participants and their victories, so it had to be true…
“Is that so? So, Mr. Kyan, can you explain the board’s features to us then?”
“Yes, of course—sir. The board was made larger because it was built for a former snowboarder. The tracks spin in the direction of movement so you can skate sideways, like in snowboarding. That way, no matter how he swings the nose, it’s hard to stress the board.”
“Wait, but then, the board wouldn't go straight.”
“Yes, exactly. So, it places him at a disadvantage, not an advantage. I could never wield a board like that, and neither can any other skater I know. It’s best suited for snowboarders.”
“Since other skaters can’t ride it, wouldn’t that still mean the board differs from those of other skaters? Usually, all equipment is similar in shape, weight, and size. So, this is highly unusual. Suspicion will arise in the other skaters as well…”
Reki gulped down his desire to punch him or throw insults at him. Instead, he took a deep breath and tried to think of an excellent way to counterargue that statement.
“True, the board is unique and different in size. However, the rules don’t mention specific measurements and only directly state that the wheels must be attached to the board. Attached is the keyword here. There aren’t any regulations on how tight or loose they must be, if they must be fixed thoroughly, or can spin in all directions. In conclusion, you have no legal grounds for banning it. Your reasoning is unjustified because Langa Hasegawa’s board fulfills all the aforementioned rules and regulations,” Reki stated as calmly as he could, proud of himself for answering rationally and without raising his voice.
“You read the rules thoroughly and are aware of the specifics,” Mr. Murakami acknowledged, nodding at him with a glance of approval. “However, the Skateboarding Explanatory guide mentions more specific measurements of the board.”
Everyone suddenly looked at him questioningly, and they looked a bit nervous. They didn’t know there were two guides—one more general, one for all participants, and one just for skateboarding. He had even mentioned it in their conversation before. Had he really been the only one reading those?
Reki smirked. A challenge? This was fun! That man assumed he hadn’t read the other guide. He could see it in how he stood there, feeling superior, with a smug expression in his expensive suit while looking at him—arrogant prick.
Well, he was about to be disappointed. Of course, he had read this one, too, and had even memorized it. He couldn’t make it too easy for them. He slowly began to enjoy this. He’d wipe that nasty smirk off his face and then, he’d save Langa.
“The skateboards used in Olympic Park and Street competitions consist primarily of a plywood “deck” approximately 81cm (32 inches) long and 21cm (8 inches) wide, with adhesive griptape on the top, four urethane wheels, and eight ball bearings inside the wheels. Two aluminum trucks, connected by four bolts each to the deck, are the primary turning mechanism and mount for the wheels - Skateboarding - Explanatory Guide, page 17,” he perfectly quoted the specifications of skateboards from the guide the man had just mentioned.
Everyone, including his friends, stared at him in astonishment. The man addressing him was speechless for once, his jaw practically hitting the floor. Reki used this moment of stunned silence to continue quickly.
“The keywords are here primarily and approximately. Both terms mean that materials and sizes are variable and are just rough estimates. It’s a general rule you can use as a standard, but they don’t have to be identical.”
“It’s exactly as Mr. Kyan has just stated,” Oka confirmed with an amused smile in his direction. “Therefore, we request that the skateboard be accepted in all Olympic skateboarding tournaments. Please withdraw your ban on the board. Exclusion of a skateboard after the IOC had already accepted it as equipment requires definite proof and an unquestionable justification to exclude it. You, however, have neither solid evidence, clues, nor an indisputable reason aside from an anonymous note.”
Mr. Murakami was still hesitating, which drove Reki insane. He had just made a perfect argument. What more did he need? He glared at the responsible party, his eyes glowing golden and flaring up dangerously. He remained calm only because Langa stood behind him and still touched his shoulder. He, of course, remained quiet, standing there eerily calm, his presence reminding him that his impulsive behavior and rude outbursts wouldn’t help their case here.
Joe approached them and helped Oka out. Mr. Oka is right. The rules are very general, and Langa Hasegawa’s board doesn’t go against them. As the NOC responsible for the Japanese athletes, I'll ask you to redraw your claim and accept the board as official equipment for the Olympics. The IOC has already approved it, so your claim comes too late and bears no legal grounds. Every lawyer would immediately rip that apart.”
“And it’s an anonymous note. Why would the IOC or the World Skate Department place a higher value on an anonymous note than the board's owner? And Langa Hasegawa hasn’t even been given the chance to defend himself. Is that the fairness the Olympics stand for? Cherry asked provocatively while swinging his fan as a mild threat.
“We’ve just received the note. We haven't finished investigating yet. We know this is unusual, but as a department for the Olympics, we have to investigate any claim, even if it’s anonymous, Mr.Ogawa explained calmly. “We hope that you understand that.”
“A thorough investigation makes sense and is appreciated. Accusing someone even before the investigation is over and without any proof is not,” Cherry intervened, meeting the man's eye.
“Maybe someone from the media should receive an anonymous note as well. By pure coincidence, of course,” Cherry muttered to Joe.
“I don’t think threatening the powers-that-be at the Olympics is helping Langa’s case here, Kaoru.”
“I know that! It’s just like a déjà vu. Remember how they pulled the same stunt with my AI board?”
“I do. But reminding them of that won’t work in Langa’s favor.”
“Then, let me try something else,” Cherry said before addressing the man. “I can be pretty convincing as well.” Reki had barely heard those words because both stood beside him.
“I don’t think such a behavior sheds a good light on the Olympics if they suspect the participants of foul play even before the Games start,” he began, making a little break after that.
He let that sink in for a moment before continuing. The Olympics had a stellar reputation and stood for fair play and respect.
“Well, I admit that the rules don’t state the precise installation of tracks. I’ll withdraw the claim if I see another skater besides Langa wield that board…
Joe just smiled knowingly, then addressed the committee again.
“I don’t think that will be necessary. Oka is one of the most famous skateboard designers and has an outstanding reputation in the skateboarding world. If you suspect one of his students of deception or foul play, you also suspect Mr. Oka himself since he supervised the board's construction. So, please consider your answer carefully and consider the possible consequences of your actions,” Joe weakened their argument easily, accompanied by a slight warning in his tone.
“What are you insinuating? Ogawa replied, casting a death glare towards him.
“I don’t need to mention that if one of Oka’s students gets disqualified before entering a tournament, the media will throw themselves into that story and investigate as soon as they get wind of that. The Olympics and their athletes are the main focus of every journalist for the next few weeks. It could snowball out of control if they realize someone banned from the Olympics has their hands in that.
“What do you mean? You don’t have any proof of that,” Murakami immediately replied.
Reki chuckled. The answer came to quickly and Murakami’s gaze had betrayed him. He knew exactly who Joe was referring to.
“You’re right. I don’t. It’s just a hunch. But the rumors would still spread. As the name Olympic Village states, this is a small village, and people here love to gossip,” Joe replied with an eerie and challenging smile.
“Fine. If you put it like that, it makes sense,” Ogawa reluctantly admitted after exchanging a glance with Murakami.
“What they meant was that they fear the press and unsubstantiated rumors much more than anything,” Cherry whispered with some amusement, hiding his mouth and amusement behind his fan.
“Therefore, we decide that Langa Hasegawa can use his board in every skateboarding tournament. We apologize for the inconvenience. We’d never seen such a board and thought it was a high-security risk for him and the other skaters during practice. The note we received only increased our doubts. However, you are right that the rules only state that the wheels must be attached. It’s not in the rules in which way they must be attached. If Oka says the board is fine, we’ll accept that.”
“However, we have one final request. We’d like to see Mr. Hasegawa wield that board. Just to be sure, it’s not a security risk. Is that fine?”
The confidence they both had demonstrated before faded quickly after he quoted the regulations perfectly. Now, they just wanted to solve this issue while saving face. If anything like that became public, it would be a public relations nightmare, mainly because they had accused a student of Oka and the son of a former athlete.
Still, they wouldn’t admit their hasty and rushed course of action. Joe had brilliantly blocked their first request for someone else to wield the board. So, this request was their last resort to save face. If Langa made a mistake or fell off his board, the outcome might turn against them.
Reki cast Langa an anxious glance. Langa had never skated at this location before. Would everything turn out all right? He knew Langa was incredibly talented and always remained calm and collected, but still, he couldn’t help but worry.
Langa just smiled. “Don’t worry. You were amazing, Reki. Leave the rest up to me.”
Reki loved and had always admired Langa's natural self-confidence in his skills. His eyes lit up with excitement, as always when he faced a notable challenge. For him, this was fun, even more so if the risks were high or much was at stake,
Langa let go of Reki’s shoulder and cast him a final glance. Then he went to the front, where Mr. Ogawa handed him his board.
“Just a minute or two will be enough. I’ve noted that you entered for Park at the Olympics. The area for Park is over there.” He pointed to an area to the right. The area here was separated into Street and Park, which were next to each other. The Park area looked like several smaller and bigger halfpipes with several islands for jumps in the middle, which you could use as you wished. The goal was that you added a minimum of jumps and got a pretty high score for them.
Langa nodded in agreement, placed his board on the edge, and started.
“Wow, he’s fast! His jumps are extraordinary. I’ve rarely seen skaters jump so high. You hid such a talent from us, Oka?”
Oka just shrugged. “I met him only a year ago when he moved to Okinawa. But you have to thank Mr. Kyan here. When they met, he convinced him to switch to skateboarding and taught him everything.”
“Is that true, Mr. Kyan?” Murakami asked him, now with open curiosity. It was always interesting to watch how sports can bring people together. However, that was the whole point of the Olympics, right?
“Yes, I did. But he had problems with regular skateboards since he had snowboarded all his life. So, I tried to create a board for him that felt similar to snowboarding.”
“The board is amazing. The wheels really spin and turn, yet Mr. Hasegawa can wield it perfectly. We were afraid such a board would turn randomly and crash into other skaters, but Mr. Hasegawa convinced us that our suspicions were unfounded.”
“I trained with Mr. Hasegawa for the Olympics and can confirm that he can direct the board in any direction and that he has never crashed into me.”
‘Well, except for that one time after our fight when we crashlanded on each other and confessed our feelings. But those old geezers don’t have to know that,’ Reki thought, grinning inwardly.
When Langa returned to them, they thanked him, told him he had great talent, and wished all of them luck for the Olympics. They also explained to Langa that they would return the skateboard where all the athlete’s equipment was stored, and he could pick it up there before the training sessions.
Then, they handed him a letter stating that his skateboard was allowed to be used in all training and competitions in case he had any problems. Oka had requested that one. A written confirmation was always better just to be safe.
Reki wanted to celebrate, but Joe’s gaze and shake of his head told him not to do that here. So, they all bowed and thanked them for their time and listening to their arguments before leaving.
When they had left the skating grounds and had walked a few meters, Reki jumped in the air and cheered, then threw himself into Langa’s arms. Calmly as ever, Langa looked at him with the softest smile.
“Thank you, Reki. For saving me. You’re my hero.”
“And now you know why you should read the rules, right?” Reki asked, casting him a challenging glance.
“Yeah,” Langa nodded. “I’ll give the Explanatory Guide another read. Promise.”
“But I really wondered how you stayed calm and didn’t latch out at anyone. So, you can be a decent human being if you try,” Miya teased him.
Reki took him in an iron grip and messed up his hair.
“Let go of me!” Miya complained, but his attempts to wiggle out of his grip were only half-hearted. He couldn’t hide his grin fast enough, either.
“That was mainly Langa’s influence. He stood behind him with a hand on his shoulder. Didn’t you notice that? Cherry asked Miya, who couldn’t hide his surprise fast enough.
Cherry turned to Langa. “Placing an arm on his shoulder was a great idea. Your touch reminded him to stay calm and for whom he did that. Thanks to you, Reki didn’t lose his temper.”
Meanwhile, Joe had placed an arm around Langa’s shoulder.
“Isn’t it great that you can use Reki’s board now?”
“Yes. I appreciate your help, Joe. Cherry, yours, too.”
“It’s not worth mentioning. I hate those old geezers. They also told me I couldn’t use my AI board a few years ago. The guidelines didn’t mention AI, so they had no legal grounds to ban my board. However, I had a chance to defend myself, at least. They might have experience as coaches, but that was decades ago. Now, there are bureaucrats and paper pushers that are great at organizing such events but are out of the loop when it comes to practical exercise of said sport.”
“We’re lucky that Oka is a legend in the skating world. No one would ever question what he says,” Reki said, grinning, and Langa nodded.
“Thank you, Manager Oka; we couldn’t have done it without your help.”
“It’s fine. I’m just glad we could resolve it. The Olympics wouldn’t be the same without you. Goes for Miya, too, of course.”
“Langa, if you have any questions or problems, come to us, ok? Reki and Miya, you too.”
“Yes, I promise. I already have one question.”
“Which is?” Okay asked.
“When were you going to tell me that my dad also participated in the Olympics?”
“Oh, well… I didn’t want to mention that at all. I wanted you to find out for yourself. Some athletes are competing with you who knew your dad. I’m sorry that I mentioned that. It probably took you by surprise. I assumed the fact that you’re the son of a former Olympic gold medallist would give our arguments more power.”
“It’s fine. I understand. I hope I can meet them.”
“But they must be his dad’s age, right? Isn’t that too old…?”
“Reki, that’s rude. If you’ve read the rules, you should know that the minimum age for participating is 13 but that there’s no age limit as long as you qualify. Don’t underestimate Olympic veterans. They have much more experience, and you can learn much from them.”
“I guess that’s true. I’ve never seen it like that. It’s just that so many skaters here are Miya’s age.”
“That’s true. The skating participants are really young,” Miya confirmed.
“So, what now?” Reki asked. “How do we celebrate?”
“Can we eat something? All that pressure and tension made me hungry. Do you think they have poutine here?” Langa asked him.
They all stared at Langa, then burst out laughing and went to the main dining hall.