As Matsu headed towards the changing room, Emmy tugged on his sleeve, her eyes wide with curiosity. "Are you coming back, Matsu?"
He ruffled her hair affectionately. "Of course, Emmy. Just need to freshen up a bit. I'll be back in no time."
Illiyas watched them with a guarded expression, still uncertain about Matsu's intentions despite the seemingly innocent interaction. However, he remained silent, choosing to observe from a distance.
Inside the changing room, Matsu quickly swapped his rumpled suit for a fresh one, making sure to straighten out any wrinkles. He checked his appearance in the mirror, ensuring everything was in place before heading back to rejoin the party.
As he stepped out, he caught Illiyas' gaze and offered a reassuring smile, hoping to alleviate any lingering tension between them. "Ready to enjoy the festivities?" he asked, his tone friendly yet casual.
Then the Queen told everyone to follow her, and they walked towards the entrance of the palace.
As the queen led the group to the entrance of the palace, anticipation hung thick in the air. Matsu could feel the excitement building as they approached the doors.
"It's time," the queen announced, her voice carrying a mixture of excitement and pride. She turned to someone nearby and gave a nod, signaling for the news to be released.
In an instant, the atmosphere outside changed. Cheers erupted from the streets as people poured out of their homes, gathering in throngs to witness the spectacle unfolding before them. The sound of jubilant voices filled the air, echoing off the stone walls of the palace.
Illiyas looked around, confusion etched on his face as he tried to make sense of the sudden commotion. He glanced at Matsu and the others, seeking answers, but no one offered any explanation.
Matsu exchanged a knowing glance with Calie and Marie, silently acknowledging the success of their plan. This was the moment they had been waiting for – the triumphant return of King Octaviano. And they had orchestrated it flawlessly, without Illiyas ever suspecting a thing.
As the gates to the capital swung open, a royal procession emerged, led by a line of majestic horses adorned with ornate decorations. The rhythmic clip-clop of their hooves echoed through the streets, setting the pace for the grand procession.
"Look, it's the king!" exclaimed one bystander, pointing excitedly as the regal figure of King Octaviano came into view, seated atop a magnificent chariot.
The crowd erupted into cheers and applause, waving banners and flags emblazoned with the royal crest. The streets were alive with energy and anticipation, the air buzzing with excitement.
"Long live the king!" shouted the crowd, their voices rising in unison as the procession made its way through the throngs of adoring subjects.
Matsu watched from the sidelines, a sense of pride swelling within him as he witnessed the joyous celebration. This was a moment of triumph, a testament to the resilience and unity of the kingdom.
"He's finally back," Matsu murmured to himself, his gaze fixed on the figure of the king. "Welcome home, Your Majesty."
Blaze nudged Matsu, nodding toward Illiyas, whose face displayed a tumultuous mix of emotions—shock, bewilderment, anger, and a begrudging acceptance of the situation unfolding before him.
Matsu followed Blaze's gaze and observed Illiyas's reaction with a knowing smile. "Looks like he's in for quite the surprise," Matsu remarked quietly, his eyes twinkling with amusement.
Calie and Marie, standing nearby, exchanged amused glances, their lips curling into mischievous smirks. "I think our little plan worked perfectly," Calie whispered to Marie, barely suppressing a giggle.
YOU ARE READING
The Shards of War: Balancing Power
Ação"Balancing Power" is the sequel to "Ascension and Secrets". Matsu will have to navigate life as the CEO of Kagayaki Industries, the Leader of the Yamatori Clan in Eclispe City, and as the current Rank 1 player in Ironhaven. How will his new title ef...
