Shards of War: Eclipsian Secrets

Chapter 71

The next morning, the house was filled with a buzz of anticipation as Matsu and his sisters prepared for the grand party that would take place later that day. The sun streamed through the windows, casting a bright, golden glow across the room as they finished up breakfast together. There was a sense of excitement in the air, and the siblings couldn't help but smile at each other as they discussed the final preparations.

Yumiko was already dressed and ready to go, her energy as lively as ever. She playfully nudged Matsu, grinning. "You nervous? This is a pretty big send-off, you know."

Matsu smirked, sipping his coffee. "Nah, not nervous. Just want to make sure everything goes smoothly. It's gotta be fun for everyone."

Iyomei, sitting quietly at the table, chimed in. "It'll be perfect. You've done a lot in a month. Everyone's going to appreciate this celebration." Despite being blind, she could feel the warmth and pride emanating from Matsu, and it made her smile.

Khamenei, always the sassier of the group, rolled up to the table in her wheelchair, smirking. "If anything goes wrong, we'll blame you. But, hey, no pressure."

Matsu chuckled, shaking his head. "Thanks for the vote of confidence, Kham."

After breakfast, they all got to work preparing for the party. The Moklull family, along with some of the local Yamatori clan members, were already helping set up in the large park that had been reserved for the celebration. Decorations were being hung, stalls and tables were arranged, and the air was filled with the sounds of laughter and excitement.

Matsu and his sisters split their tasks. Yumiko was handling the logistics, ensuring that all the equipment and materials were in place. Iyomei helped with organizing some of the children's activities, relying on her sharp memory and planning skills to make sure everything was ready. Khamenei took charge of the entertainment, coordinating with local performers and musicians who would liven up the atmosphere.

As for Matsu, he was focused on making sure the event flowed smoothly, talking to staff and volunteers while making final checks on food, games, and other activities. He wanted to ensure there was something for everyone—children, adults, and elders alike.

While making his rounds, Matsu stopped for a moment to take it all in. The sight of so many people working together to bring this celebration to life gave him a deep sense of pride. He had done a lot during his time in Eclipsia, but this—being surrounded by family and community—was what truly mattered to him.

Yumiko caught him in his moment of reflection and walked over, bumping him lightly on the shoulder. "Feeling nostalgic already, huh?"

"Maybe a little," Matsu admitted with a small smile. "It's just...nice, you know? Being with everyone like this."

Yumiko nodded, her expression softening. "Yeah, I get it. But hey, Ironhaven isn't that far. And you'll always have us. That's never going to change."

Matsu looked at his sister, appreciating her words. "I know. I'll always have you guys." He glanced over to where Iyomei and Khamenei were busy at their respective stations, both of them engrossed in their work. "It just feels...good. Being here, with family."

"Don't get too emotional on us," Yumiko teased, though her tone was light and affectionate. "Save that for later, when everyone's toasting you."

They shared a laugh before Matsu excused himself to check on his clones. He spotted several of them mingling with the Yamatori members, their bright faces full of energy as they helped set up different parts of the event. This would be their ninth gathering together, and Matsu wanted it to be grand and memorable.

As he approached the group, Zephyr waved him over. "Dad! We've got everything set up for the games section. Wanna come check it out?"

Matsu smiled, ruffling Zephyr's hair. "Lead the way."