The Shards of War: Ascension and Secrets

Chapter 33

The next day Matsu sat at the breakfast table, enjoying his meal while casually checking his phone. He noticed a new message in the group chat from Calie, but when he read it, he couldn't help but blush. The message read, "Matsu, who do you think was the scratcher, and who was the biter?"

His face turned several shades redder as he realized that the message was intended for him, not the group chat. He quickly typed a response, "Calie!! That wasn't meant for the group chat!" and sent it with an embarrassed emoji.

Calie's response came quickly, filled with playful teasing, "Oops, my bad! But seriously, answer the question! Who do you think was the scratcher, and who was the biter?"

Matsu couldn't help but chuckle despite his embarrassment. "Well, I guess that's a secret between me, you, and Marie," he replied.

Marie chimed in, "Oh, so it's a secret now, is it? Maybe we should keep it that way."

Calie joined the playful banter, "Agreed, our little secret, just between us."

Matsu couldn't stop the grin that spread across his face as he exchanged messages with his Fiancées. It was a reminder of the bond they shared and the joy they found in their intimate moments, even if a little teasing came along with it.

Then the group chat was filled with laughter and playful banter as Calie's message caught everyone by surprise. Matsu, Calie, and Marie had quite the secret to keep, and the friends were having a good-natured chuckle at their expense.

Blaze, always one to enjoy some mischief, chimed in first. "Well, well, well, looks like our boy Matsu has some secrets. You sly devil! 😉" She added a winking emoji for emphasis.

Orca joined in, "Matsu, you sneaky little fox. I knew there was more to your victory celebration!"

Jackie, who was typically more reserved, couldn't resist the opportunity to tease, "Ah, young love. The mysteries of the heart and body."

The chat was flooded with laughing emojis as everyone enjoyed the lighthearted moment, and even Angelo, who had been mostly quiet, sent a message that simply said, "Nice.👍"

Matsu, though feeling a bit embarrassed, couldn't help but laugh along with his friends. It was all in good fun, and he appreciated the camaraderie and humor within the group.

Then Matsu's phone buzzed with a notification from the Tactical Takedown lobby, and his expression shifted from amusement to seriousness. He read the message and sighed, realizing that he had a challenge ahead.

"Guys, it seems I've been challenged for my rank by Rank 2 and Rank 3," he told the group chat.

Marina was the first to respond, her competitive spirit evident. "You've got this, Matsu. Show them what you're made of."

Terry added, "Go out there and give 'em hell, buddy."

Opal was more cautious, "Make sure to stay safe and come back in one piece."

Blaze, ever the encourager, said, "Win this match, Matsu. We believe in you."

Matsu appreciated the support from his friends. He knew this was a critical moment in his gaming career, and the pressure was on. With a determined expression, he sent a message to accept the challenge, ready to face Rank 2 and Rank 3 head-on.

Then Marina, always curious, couldn't help but ask the question that had been lingering in her mind.

"Wait, why do you all refer to the top ranks by their numbers rather than their real names?" she inquired.

Matsu took a moment to explain, typing his response thoughtfully. "It's a sign of respect and tradition. In the world of Tactical Takedown, the top ranks hold a special place. Using their rank numbers acknowledges their achievements and prowess. It's like a silent salute to their skill and dedication."