Free! the Final Stroke: The First Volume

Synopsis

Continues the story of Free! Dive to the Future

After his senior teammates finish their schooling, Haruka Nanase and his fellow swimmers turn their focus toward achieving their future ambitions. At Hidaka University in Tokyo, Haruka unexpectedly encounters Shiina Asahi, an old friend from middle school. This meeting brings back painful memories of a period when Haruka lost his passion for swimming and decided to leave the team. He reconnects with other former classmates, though Ikuya Kirishima is not among them, as he still holds resentment toward Haruka for quitting and the team's subsequent collapse. Understanding their strained relationship, Haruka tries to make amends with Ikuya, but comes to see that rebuilding trust is only one of his obstacles. Facing increasingly skilled rivals, Haruka must prove his abilities if he hopes to succeed in international competitions.

In this installment

In "Free! the Final Stroke: The First Volume," Haruka Nanase starts a fresh chapter in Sydney, the city he always longed to revisit. While getting ready for his departure, Haru crosses paths with another swimmer from the All-Japan Invitational. Carrying memories of his past experiences in the water and the friends who stood by him, Haru steps into an unfamiliar setting. There, he comes face to face with the formidable champion, Albert Volandel. As the Sydney tournament draws near, every competitor works to raise their spirits and sharpen their performance. This volume delves into the personal drives and emotions of these athletes as they battle for dominance at the highest level. Their intense clashes with the water begin once more!