Shards of War: Eclipsian Secrets

Chapter 23

The next morning, Matsu woke up early, ready to drive his sisters to school. The sun had just begun to rise, casting a warm, golden light over Eclipse City. After a quick breakfast, the four of them piled into Matsu's car, the atmosphere light and filled with the chatter of his sisters discussing their day ahead.

When they reached the high school, Matsu slowed the car near the drop-off point. Before Yumiko got out, Matsu glanced over at her. "So, which one's Aki?"

Yumiko blushed slightly but pointed discreetly towards a boy standing a few yards away. Matsu followed her gaze and saw Aki helping another student, who was using a crutch to walk, get up the stairs. Aki moved with calm and care, making sure the other student was okay before heading inside.

Matsu smiled, nodding in approval. "You chose well, Yumiko. He seems like a nice kid."

Yumiko rolled her eyes slightly but smiled. "Aki and I are barely a year younger than you, you know."

Matsu chuckled. "Fair enough. Now get to class before you're late."

Yumiko grinned, grabbed her bag, and hopped out of the car. "Bye, Matsu!" she called out, waving before heading towards the school entrance.

"See you later!" Matsu called back, watching her for a moment before driving off. He then headed to the middle school to drop off Iyomei and Kamenei.

Once they arrived, Matsu parked the car and got out to help his sisters. He gently guided Iyomei out of the car, making sure she was steady, while Kamenei followed close behind. "Do you two need any help finding your classes today?" he asked.

Iyomei smiled up at him, shaking her head. "No, Matsu. I memorized all our classes already."

Matsu raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. "Wow, really? You've got every class together?"

Kamenei nodded. "Yeah, we do. It makes things easier."

Matsu chuckled, giving them both an affectionate pat on the head. "Well, I guess our family's reputation and your conditions worked in your favor, huh?"

Kamenei grinned. "Guess so. It's not all bad, having everyone know who we are."

Matsu laughed softly. "Alright, you two. Have a good day, and remember, if you need anything, just let me know."

Iyomei and Kamenei both smiled at him, their confidence shining through. "We will, Matsu. See you later!" they chimed together before heading towards the school building.

Matsu watched them go, a sense of pride swelling in his chest. Despite everything, his sisters were strong and capable, just like he knew they would be. With a final wave, he got back into his car, ready to face the rest of his day.

After dropping off his sisters at school, Matsu settled back into his car, a moment of quiet solitude wrapping around him. He took a deep breath, pulling out his phone and dialing Bonnie's number. The phone rang only twice before she picked up.

"Morning, Matsu," Bonnie greeted, her voice bright and cheerful as always.

"Hey, Bonnie," Matsu replied, trying to keep the tiredness out of his voice. "I was just wondering if there are any meetings scheduled for today."

Bonnie chuckled softly on the other end. "No meetings today, but you still need to oversee weapon production and development. And don't forget to supply the new weapons to the military and law enforcement."

Matsu sighed, leaning back in his seat. "Yeah, I know. I'll get it done quick. I just... I was hoping to spend some time with my clones today."

"I get it, Matsu," Bonnie said sympathetically. "I know you're hating how much work you've had to do lately, but at least you've got your family with you, right?"