The Shards of War: Balancing Power

Chapter 40

It has been a week since with the vacation began, and now they have to return home. They explored every district and had some souvenirs to take home, Matsu packed the car to head home and Calie, Marie, and Blaze said goodbye to Matsu's sisters, after Matsu finished packing and told them it's time to leave, and the girls got in the car.

Then Matsu walked over to his little sisters, as Matsu hugged his little sisters, they exchanged playful banter about his upcoming visits with his clones. Yumiko and Iyomei teased him, saying things like, "Don't let your clones cause too much trouble," and "Make sure they behave themselves, big brother!"

Matsu laughed and assured them that he would keep an eye on his clones, promising to return soon for another visit. Yumiko handed him a small package, saying, "We got you a little something. Open it when you're back in Ironhaven."

Matsu smiled gratefully and tucked the package into the car. With one final round of hugs and goodbyes, he joined Calie, Marie, and Blaze in the car. As they pulled away from Matsu's childhood home, the sisters waved from the doorstep, their smiles reflecting the warmth of the time they spent together.

Inside the car, Blaze looked at the package in Matsu's hands and asked, "What did they give you?"

Matsu grinned, "I guess we'll find out when we get back. They always have a way of surprising me." The car journey back to Ironhaven began, filled with memories of the vibrant districts of Eclipse City, laughter, and the anticipation of unwrapping the thoughtful gift from Matsu's sisters once they returned home.

As they stepped into Matsu's home in Ironhaven, the familiar surroundings brought a sense of comfort. The house staff greeted them warmly, assuring that everything was taken care of in Matsu's absence, including the well-being of his cat Azzy and his avian companions Aria and Velox.

With a curious glint in his eyes, Matsu decided it was time to unwrap the package his sisters had given him. Calie, Marie, and Blaze gathered around, intrigued by the mystery gift. Matsu carefully untied the ribbon and unwrapped the paper, revealing a beautifully crafted photo frame.

Inside the frame was a picture of Matsu with his sisters, taken during their recent vacation in Eclipse City. The genuine smiles and shared laughter captured in the photograph highlighted the bond between them. Matsu's eyes softened as he admired the thoughtful gift.

Blaze commented, "Your sisters sure know how to pick a meaningful present. It's a lovely picture."

Matsu nodded, "Yeah, they do. It's a great reminder of the time we spent together. I'll cherish this."

As they placed the framed photo on a prominent shelf in the living room, Matsu couldn't help but feel grateful for the love and support of his sisters. The familiar surroundings of Ironhaven, now adorned with a new memory, welcomed them back home.

Then Blaze stretched her arms and suggested, "Well, our vacation technically doesn't end until tomorrow, so why not make the most of today? How about a round of Tactical Takedown?"

Marie hesitated, expressing her concern, "I'm not sure about playing in public before our vacation officially ends. We should lay low for now."

Calie, on the other hand, was visibly excited at the prospect, "Oh, come on, Marie! It's been ages since we played, and I've been itching for a good match. Plus, it's a great way to unwind."

Matsu, intrigued by the idea, chimed in, "I like Calie's enthusiasm. We could set up a private airsoft match right here at home. No need to worry about public appearances."

Blaze added with a mischievous grin, "And who knows, maybe we can convince Marie to join in after a round or two. It'll be fun!"

Marie sighed, knowing she might be outnumbered, "Fine, but just one round, okay? I don't want to get too distracted."