Shards of War: Eclipsian Secrets

Chapter 79

As Matsu, Calie, and Marie approached the meeting room in the Tactical Takedown lobby, the air felt slightly charged with anticipation. They always held the royal meetings there, a central point for all the members. Matsu, feeling a bit of the weight of his decision to bring Calie and Marie along, turned to Calie before they walked in.

"Remember," he said, his voice low but firm, "don't show too much affection towards me. We don't want to start any rumors."

Calie gave him a cheeky grin and saluted, adding with mock seriousness, "Yes, sir! No affection, sir!"

Matsu sighed, shaking his head, though there was a small smile on his face. Marie placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, her cool demeanor steady as always. "You wanted this, remember?" she reminded him softly.

"I know," Matsu replied, exhaling slowly. He knew full well the risks, but he also couldn't deny how much he liked having them by his side, even if it meant navigating the murky waters of public perception.

With that, he opened the door, and the sight of the other royals and their partners greeted them. There was Ruby, chatting with her girlfriend, Cashmere, who stood beside her with a warm, easy smile. Roman, the most stoic of the group, was leaning against the wall, his arm draped casually around his girlfriend Chloe, while Zarel sat comfortably, hand-in-hand with his boyfriend Eliot, who looked just as laid-back. Carrie, known for her competitive spirit, was laughing with her boyfriend Jason, who looked at her with pure admiration.

As Matsu entered with Calie and Marie, the conversation paused for a brief second before Ruby's eyes lit up. "Well, well, look who decided to show up with some company! Out of the Blue in the flesh!" Ruby exclaimed, her playful tone cutting through the air, referencing Calie and Marie's idol group.

Cashmere waved, her soft expression brightening at the sight of the trio. "It's great to see you here," she added kindly, her demeanor welcoming.

Roman, never one for excess emotion, gave a small nod in greeting. "Didn't expect to see you bringing anyone along, Matsu."

Chloe, standing beside Roman, smiled warmly. "It's a nice surprise."

Zarel, always the charmer, gave an exaggerated bow. "Royalty among royalty! It's a pleasure to meet the famed Calie and Marie in person."

Eliot, Zarel's boyfriend, chuckled beside him. "Zarel's been talking nonstop about this since he heard you were coming."

Carrie, ever competitive, grinned at Matsu. "Finally brought your partners to one of our meetings, huh? About time."

Jason, her boyfriend, added with a laugh, "Carrie's been curious about what it'd be like having you all here."

Matsu felt a bit of the tension ease as the other royals welcomed them warmly. He relaxed his shoulders and smiled. "Yeah, I thought it was about time you all met them."

Ruby's sharp gaze landed on Calie, a smirk playing at the corners of her lips. "I gotta say, Matsu, I'm surprised you held off this long. We've all been dying to meet them."

Calie laughed lightly. "We've been busy with our schedules, but it's nice to finally put faces to the names."

Marie, as composed as ever, gave a small nod. "We've heard a lot about you all. It's good to finally meet."

The room settled into a comfortable hum of conversation as the royals introduced themselves more casually, and the easy atmosphere made Matsu feel more at ease. Even though the idea of bringing Calie and Marie had initially caused some nerves, the warm reception from his fellow royals made him feel confident about the decision.