The Shards of War: Ascension and Secrets

Chapter 17

The next day, Matsu reached out to Sunny, wanting to relay the news about Marina's willingness to talk. He picked up his phone and dialed Sunny's number. After a few rings, she answered. "Hello?" Sunny's voice came through the phone. "Hey, Sunny. It's Matsu," he began, "I've got some news for you." Sunny's tone was filled with curiosity as she replied, "Matsu? What's going on?" Matsu took a deep breath before continuing, "I found Marina. She's in Ironhaven." A moment of silence followed on Sunny's end, her surprise evident. "You... You did? That's incredible! Where is she?" "She's willing to meet with you and talk," Matsu explained, "but there's a condition. She wants you to come to Ironhaven. She said she'll explain everything once you're here." Sunny's voice quivered slightly as she responded, "Ironhaven? That's quite a journey." Matsu nodded, even though Sunny couldn't see him over the phone. "I know, Sunny. It won't be easy. But I'll be there to pick you up and take you to her. You won't have to do this alone."

Sunny's gratitude was palpable in her voice as she softly said, "Thank you, Matsu. I appreciate your help. I want to see her again." Matsu reassured her, "I understand, Sunny. We'll work out the details and plan your trip here. Just be prepared for a long journey." "I will," Sunny affirmed. "And thank you again, Matsu. You're a true friend." "You're welcome, Sunny," Matsu replied with warmth. "We'll get through this together." As Matsu hung up the phone, he couldn't help but feel a sense of hope. Helping reunite friends was a small part of the chaos that had entered his life, but it was a reminder that amidst the challenges, there were moments of connection and healing. Then Matsu quickly dialed Marina's number and waited for her to pick up. After a few rings, she answered. "Hello?" Marina's voice came through the phone. "Hey, Marina. It's me, Matsu," he greeted her. "Matsu?" Marina sounded surprised. "What's up?" Matsu got straight to the point. "I just spoke with Sunny, and she's willing to meet you in Ironhaven. I'm going to pick her up and bring her to you. Are you ready for that?" Marina hesitated for a moment before responding, "Yeah, I'm ready. It's time we talked."

Matsu could hear the uncertainty in her voice, but he knew this was a significant step for both Marina and Sunny. "Great," he said encouragingly. "I'll be there to get Sunny in a few hours. Take this time to prepare and think about what you want to say. It's going to be okay." "Thanks, Matsu," Marina replied with a hint of gratitude. "I appreciate your help in making this happen." Matsu smiled, even though she couldn't see it over the phone. "No problem, Marina. We'll make sure this meeting goes smoothly." With that, they said their goodbyes, and Matsu hung up, feeling a sense of responsibility for helping two friends reconnect. It was another chapter in the ongoing story of his life, filled with challenges, surprises, and moments of hope. As Matsu drove toward the Solstice Kingdom, he pulled out his phone and sent a message to Calie, Marie, and Blaze in their secret group chat.

Matsu: Hey, just wanted to let you all know that I'm on my way to the Solstice Kingdom to pick up Sunny. She's agreed to meet Marina in Ironhaven, and I offered to bring her here. I'll keep you updated.

Calie: That's great, Matsu! Keep us posted, and safe travels!

Marie: Good luck, Matsu. I hope everything goes well.

Blaze: You've got this, Matsu. Let us know if you need anything.Matsu appreciated the support from his friends. 

Their encouragement gave him the confidence to face this journey and help reunite Sunny and Marina. With their messages in mind, he continued his drive toward the Solstice Kingdom, determined to make the meeting a success. The hours later Matsu's car was parked by the side of the road, just a short distance from Sunny's family farm. He watched as Sunny stood with her parents, her face filled with mixed emotions. Her parents seemed understanding but concerned.  Sunny's Mother concerned for her daughter told her, "Remember, Sunny, take care of yourself out there. And if things don't go well, don't hesitate to come back home." Sunny hugged her parents tightly, her determination evident in her smile. "I will, Mom," she assured her mother, "Thanks for understanding." Her father chimed in, supportive and reassuring. "We trust your judgment, sweetheart. Just be safe." As Matsu approached, Sunny turned toward him, her relief and anticipation clearly visible in her eyes. "That's my ride," she said to her parents, "I'll be fine, I promise."