The Shards of War: Balancing Power

Chapter 4

As Calie, Marie, and Matsu arrived at the recording studio, Matsu couldn't help but feel a sense of déjà vu when he saw the label company's logo. It tugged at the edges of his memory, but he couldn't quite place it.

The three of them entered the studio and approached the receptionist. Calie explained their purpose, saying, "We're here to begin our recording session."

The receptionist hesitated for a moment, explaining that guests weren't typically allowed. However, Calie and Marie were quick to interject. "Matsu is part of our team for this project," Marie clarified.

The receptionist nodded, understanding their situation, and provided directions to the room where they would be recording. With that, the three headed in the direction given, ready to start working on their new dark and edgy song.

As Calie and Marie settled into the recording studio, they shared a bit of their usual routine with Matsu. "This is where we usually do our recordings," Calie said, gesturing around the studio. "Our producer should be here shortly."

Matsu, ever the analytical mind, took a quick glance at the equipment and began mentally assessing the purpose and function of every button, dial, knob, and switch. It was clear that his tactical and strategic thinking extended beyond the battlefield.

Before long, they heard approaching footsteps, and Calie and Marie exchanged excited glances. "Here comes our producer," Marie announced with a smile.

The door swung open, and a figure entered the studio, ready to guide them through the process of creating their new dark and edgy song.

Then Shai Hosni, the producer, walked into the studio with a warm smile, her eyes lighting up as she greeted Calie and Marie. "Hi, girls! I'm excited to work on this new song with you. It's going to be a nice change of pace from everything else you've done."

However, her friendly greeting was momentarily interrupted by an unexpected emotional outburst from Matsu. His eyes welled up with tears, and he stammered, "Shai... Is that you?"

Shai Hosni blinked in surprise, her gaze locking onto the familiar face she hadn't seen in a long time. "Matsu?" She couldn't believe her eyes. The last time she'd seen him, he was just a child, and now, he stood before her, a young man.

Shai had known Matsu from before his parents passed away. His father had invited her over to their place to discuss a young Firefly's desire to enter the music industry. The memories of those days flooded back as she realized who was standing before her.

Despite her genuine excitement at reuniting with Matsu, Shai couldn't help but wonder how he had come to be here. His presence was unexpected, to say the least.

Matsu hugged Shai tightly, his voice filled with genuine emotion. "I missed seeing you, Shai. After my parents passed away, I lost contact with most of our old friends."

Shai returned the hug, patting his back reassuringly. "I understand, Matsu. I'm so sorry to hear about your parents. It must have been incredibly difficult for you. I've thought about reaching out, but without a good reason to visit, I didn't want to intrude."

Matsu nodded, appreciating her understanding. "It's been tough, but I've been managing as best I can."

Shai studied Matsu for a moment before a sly smile crossed her lips. "Well, you've certainly grown, both in stature and presence. What brings you here, Matsu?"

Calie and Marie exchanged glances, unsure how to explain their connection to Shai and Matsu. They decided to let Matsu take the lead in the conversation.

Matsu turned to Calie and Marie, sensing their unease. "Shai and I knew each other before. She was a close friend of my father's and was helping me with my singing before everything happened."