Piecing Together the Shards: A Shards of War side series

Scratch the Record

As Marina and Sunny navigated the complexities of their relationship within the confines of the Desolan army, they found themselves facing a new set of challenges. Relationships were discouraged among soldiers, seen as a potential distraction from their duties. Yet, despite the obstacles they faced, Marina and Sunny's love only grew stronger with each passing day.

Their captain, a wise and seasoned veteran, recognized the depth of their bond and understood that their commitment to each other only served to strengthen their resolve on the battlefield. Instead of reprimanding them, he offered his quiet support, knowing that their love was a source of motivation and courage.

"It's clear to me that your love for each other only strengthens your dedication to the kingdom," he remarked one day, his voice filled with respect. "I've seen it in the way you fight, the way you protect each other. Your bond is a testament to the strength of the human spirit."

Marina and Sunny exchanged a glance, their hearts swelling with gratitude for their captain's understanding. They knew that they faced an uphill battle in a world that frowned upon their love, but with his support, they felt emboldened to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

As three years passed, Marina and Sunny continued to serve their kingdom with unwavering loyalty and determination. They fought side by side on the battlefield, their bond serving as a beacon of hope amidst the chaos of war.

And as they stood together, facing the dawn of a new day, Marina knew that their love would endure, a steadfast reminder of the power of love to conquer even the darkest of times.

"I love you, Sunny," Marina whispered, her voice filled with conviction.

"I love you too, Marina," Sunny replied, her eyes shining with unwavering devotion.

With their hands clasped tightly together, they faced the future with courage and determination, ready to face whatever trials and tribulations came their way, knowing that as long as they had each other, they could overcome anything.

Then one day, the New Thunderbeak Platoon agents, the people stealing their Zaphawks, attacked the capital, Marina and Sunny were summoned to the palace and into the underground arena where the agents would be fighting the army stationed in the capital.

General Lento, and the King himself were at the battle and sunny protected Marina as she did her job as one of the combat engineers, then as Sunny moved with other soldiers to attack the four agents. Then, one of them jumped in front of Marina, startling.

Matsu landing caused Marina to gasp in surprise. In the commotion, her goggles fell off, revealing her wide-eyed expression. "Marina," Matsu greeted her, his voice filled with a mix of nostalgia and urgency. "It's been a long time."

Marina blinked at him, disbelief etched across her features. "Matsu? Is that really you?" Matsu nodded. "Yeah, it's me. I never got the chance to properly thank you for helping us escape."

A conflicted expression passed over Marina's face. "I didn't expect to see you here. You've become quite the troublemaker, haven't you?"

Matsu chuckled, though the gravity of the situation was not lost on him. "I guess you could say that. But, Marina, this isn't what I want. We need to stop this senseless fighting. Join us, and we can find a better way."

Marina hesitated, glancing at the ongoing battle around them. "I can't, Matsu. My loyalty is with the kingdom." Matsu sighed, understanding the weight of her decision. "I had to try. Just promise me you'll stay safe." Marina nodded, and for a moment, the two former acquaintances shared a somber look.

Despite their differences, there was a sense of understanding between them.  As the battle raged around them, Matsu and Marina found an unlikely moment of respite in the midst of their conversation.