The Shards of War: Balancing Power

Chapter 26

After talking with the two boys, Matsu offers them a choice: either A) they confront their adoptive parents and teach them about social norms and the wrongness of homophobia, or B) Matsu arranges for the boys to be adopted by a firefly couple in Eclipse City, Eclispia, where they will live in a neighborhood full of other fireflies from Themea and have full parental protection.

The younger brother still loves their adoptive parents, but the older brother despises them for attempting to change his younger brother simply because he is gay. The younger brother wants to choose option a, while the older brother wants to choose option b.

Matsu listened carefully to the brothers, understanding the complexity of their emotions. He sighed, realizing the difficult decision they faced. "It's clear that both of you have different perspectives on how to handle this situation. Option A would involve confronting your adoptive parents and trying to educate them. It might not be easy, and there's a chance they won't understand immediately. Option B offers a fresh start, free from the prejudice you've faced so far."

Calie, empathetic as ever, spoke softly, "It's important to consider both your feelings. While education is valuable, so is your mental and emotional well-being. If the confrontation becomes too much, it could affect you both negatively."

Marie added, "And it's okay to prioritize your own happiness. Matsu is offering you a chance to live without fear and judgment. It's a tough decision, but ultimately, it should be one that leads to a better future for both of you."

The younger brother, torn between his love for his adoptive parents and the desire for acceptance, whispered, "I just want them to understand, to accept us as we are."

The older brother, with a determined look, countered, "They've had their chance to understand, and they failed. We need to think about our future, about living in a place where we can be ourselves without constantly fighting against discrimination."

Matsu, contemplating the brothers' words, finally said, "The decision is yours. Take the time you need to think about it. Whatever you choose, know that you have our support." The weight of their choices lingered in the room, and Matsu, Calie, Marie, and Blaze stood ready to assist these two young fireflies in navigating a path to a brighter and more accepting future.

Then the younger brother then breaks down in a panic, saying he has to call his boyfriend after realizing something. The older brother also breaks down in a panic, fearing that his brother's boyfriend could be in danger because his parents are from the same community as their adoptive parents. Although they are more lenient with their rules, they worry that their parents could be doing something to him.

The younger brother quickly pulled out his phone, his hands trembling as he dialed his boyfriend's number. The older brother nervously paced around, anxiety etched on his face. Matsu, Calie, Marie, and Blaze exchanged concerned glances, realizing the urgency of the situation.

As the call connected, the younger brother spoke rapidly, "Hey, it's me. I need to know you're okay. Are your parents doing anything to you because of us?" His voice trembled with fear, and his eyes darted around, searching for reassurance.

On the other end of the line, the boyfriend's voice sounded strained but steady, "No, everything's fine here. My parents are aware of our relationship, and they've been more understanding. Don't worry, okay?"

A wave of relief washed over the younger brother, his panic subsiding. Matsu, sensing the tension easing, spoke, "It's crucial for both of you to have open communication. If your boyfriend is safe, that's one less thing to worry about. Now, let's focus on deciding your next steps."

The older brother, still visibly anxious, nodded in agreement. Calie offered a comforting smile, "You've got support, not just from us, but from your friends too. We'll help you through this."