Inside the grand reception hall of the presidential palace, Rafael strolled past a gallery adorned with portraits of former presidents, each captured in a moment of authority. He paused before his father's portrait, where Karl Marino, depicted with a thoughtful expression, sat prominently in an executive chair, holding a pipe.
"Who would've imagined he'd end up here, initially uninterested in the presidency, now entrenched in this role," Jiena remarked, her voice tinged with both admiration and skepticism.
"He's proven himself quite the strategist," Rafael replied, his tone reflecting a mixture of pride and contemplation.
With a shared understanding, the twins proceeded to their father's office. Inside, Karl was absorbed in reading the morning newspaper, a cup of tea resting beside him. Jiena and Rafael greeted him warmly, exchanging kisses on the cheek before settling into comfortable chairs nearby.
"Another hectic day?" Jiena inquired, her eyes scanning the room that held years of their father's dedication to his country.
"Always busy," Karl replied with a faint smile, setting down the paper momentarily. "I had plans to retire, yet here we are. And you," he continued, turning his attention to Jiena, "chose not to pursue the presidency but instead supported your sister's bid for mayor."
"I felt it was my way of contributing," Jiena explained earnestly, her gaze meeting her father's with a sense of shared responsibility.
Their conversation was interrupted by Charlie's abrupt entrance into the office, his breath slightly labored from rushing. Karl glanced up curiously, sensing urgency in his son's demeanor.
"What's happening?" Karl asked as Charlie swiftly reached for the remote to switch on the television. On the screen, Senator Lean Marco, a charismatic and well-spoken politician from Western Visayas, was addressing the press. Known for his charm, political lineage, and education abroad, Marco had garnered attention both for his policies and his personal life, notably his marriage to a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
As they watched, Karl and his children absorbed the implications of Marco's remarks, aware of the subtle jabs and underlying political maneuvers at play.
At ten in the morning, the senator called a press conference, announcing his bid for the presidency nine months ahead of the election. Standing beside him was his wife, Sophie Lynn Serei, adding prestige to the event.
"I ask for your support in my presidential campaign," he declared to the press.
When asked about President Marino, a potential opponent, the senator sharply criticized him. "President Marino is a capable leader, but his ties to the Underground and his personal scandals, including alleged affairs and capitalist connections, make him unfit for office."
Meanwhile, Karl silently watched from his study, unmoved by the senator's accusations. Charlie and Gustav, nearby, urged Karl to respond.
"Karl, you must act now," Charlie pressed.
"The time to decide is here," Gustav added urgently.
Karl glanced at Gustav and smirked. "I thought you were considering running yourself."
"Not now. You're the one the people are looking to," Gustav replied.
Karl remained composed, focused on the unfolding developments broadcast on TV.
"We don't need a president with a tainted personal history," the senator concluded, his words lingering in the charged atmosphere.
At the Presidential Palace, Kenneth and Gustav seethed with anger, crumpling the documents they held in frustration over the senator's remarks. Karl abruptly stood up, decisively turning off the TV.
"If that bastard wants a fight, I'll give it to him!" Karl declared, slamming his fist onto the desk with a determined expression.
"What's your plan?" Charlie asked, eyeing the President warily.
"He'll be at the party tonight, right?" Karl queried.
"Yes, he's invited," Gustav confirmed.
"Perfect. We'll handle it tonight," Karl replied, a mischievous glint in his eye. He left the office with Jiena and Rafael trailing behind.
As they navigated the hallway, Muro appeared unexpectedly, holding a glass of juice. In his haste, he accidentally spilled it on Karl's uniform. Karl turned to face his surprised son.
"Oh, dear..." Karl muttered, assessing the damage.
Muro stood frozen, meeting his father's gaze. "Dad, I'm so sorry. I didn't see you."
Karl sighed, rolling his eyes. "You're quite the unlucky one, just like me," he remarked, handing Muro a piece of paper. "Read this in front of the media."
"Dad, I'm not comfortable speaking to the press," Muro protested.
Karl raised an eyebrow, fixing a stern look on his son. "You can't avoid it forever."
Just then, Reynaldo, Karl's aide, and Charee arrived.
"What's going on here, Lem? And why is there juice on your clothes?" Reynaldo asked.
"My clumsy son spilled juice on me. He needs someone to accompany him to the media briefing," Karl explained.
"I'll go with him, Uncle," Charee volunteered, and Muro nodded in agreement.
"We'll accompany you," Jiena added. "We can't risk any slip-ups, especially with a genius like you."
"I can handle it myself," Muro insisted.
"You're unlucky and clumsy, so it's better if we're there to make sure everything goes smoothly," Jiena replied as they escorted Muro to the briefing room. Rafael and Jiena kept a close watch, anticipating any hiccups. Charee stood by Muro's side throughout the speech.
To everyone's surprise, Muro delivered his father's speech flawlessly, without a hint of hesitation. As the press prepared to ask questions, Jiena stepped in.
"You did well. I'm proud of you," Jiena praised her younger brother. "Now, let me take over."
"You were amazing up there," Charee complimented her boyfriend.
"I couldn't have done it without you beside me," Muro replied, leaning in to kiss Charee on the forehead.
Muro and Charee had been inseparable since childhood, growing up in the same quaint village and attending the same schools from kindergarten through high school. Their bond was one forged in the fires of shared experiences, laughter, and the occasional squabble. Charee was always there for Muro and his sister Marla, offering unwavering support in every endeavor they undertook. Whether it was a school play, a science fair, or a sports event, Charee handled everything from logistics to moral support, making sure the genius duo had everything they needed to succeed.
Despite their deep connection, Charee viewed Muro strictly as her best friend. She had her own romantic entanglements, each ending in heartbreak. In those moments of despair, it was Muro's shoulder she cried on. He comforted her through every tearful breakup, always ready with a kind word and a listening ear. Muro's consistent presence in her life was a cornerstone of their friendship, a relationship she cherished deeply.
Muro, on the other hand, harbored feelings for Charee that went beyond friendship. Unlike his brother Rafael, whose relationships often ended in disappointment, Muro's affection for Charee remained unwavering. He never entertained thoughts of any other woman. What attracted him to Charee was not just her physical beauty—her bow-shaped lips, round hazelnut eyes, and graceful figure—but her unwavering support and resilience. To Muro, Charee was more than just a friend; she was his strength and his guardian, always there to lift his spirits when he was in doubt.
The depth of his feelings grew over the years, and Muro finally reached a point where he could no longer keep them hidden. He decided to confess his love, though fear gnawed at him. He worried that revealing his true feelings might shatter their precious friendship. Gathering his courage, he laid his heart bare to Charee, expecting the worst.
To his astonishment and relief, Charee confessed that she had fallen in love with him too. She admitted that her feelings had grown over time, much like his. The realization that they could be more than friends brought them both immense joy. It marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives, transforming their bond from one of childhood camaraderie to a mature, loving relationship.
----
In the presidential study room, Karl sat behind his desk, skimming through documents while the television murmured in the background. Riko stood before him, her expression tense and her teeth clenched.
"Mom, Dad," Muro called out as he entered.
"There you are!" Karl exclaimed, rising to embrace his son. "You've made your daddy proud."
Riko forced a smile and added, "You both need to prepare for the presidential party tonight, Muro, and you too, Charee."
Charlie, seated nearby, slammed his fist on the table. "We'll show that Lean his place."
"Why? What did Senator Marco say?" Riko asked, her eyes narrowing.
Karl sighed. "He told the press about my mistresses."
"And he called him Takako's shadow, Takako's lover, and Takako's sidekick," Gustav added, shaking his head.
Riko's face flushed with anger. "That's a bold statement. He should've never said that," she muttered, turning and walking out of the room.
"Did we say something offensive?" Gustav asked, looking puzzled.
Karl sighed again. "Yeah, she's allergic to anything related to Takako."
Muro, sensing the tension, decided it was time to leave. "We'll go now. We have to prepare for the ball," he said, bidding his father farewell.
As Muro and Charee left the study, Karl sat back down, rubbing his temples. The weight of the presidency was heavy, and the strain on his family was starting to show. The upcoming party, intended as a celebration, felt more like a daunting task in light of the day's revelations.
-----
At three in the afternoon, the Marino children gathered in the music room. Rafael sat beside Muro and Kyoko, glancing at their older sister, Jiena. Kazuki, Marla, and Bianca were also present, facing the trio with anticipation.
"Nozomi, what's the agenda for this afternoon?" Rafael asked, breaking the silence.
"It's about Dad," Jiena replied, clearing her throat. "He has too much on his plate, and it's becoming overwhelming. He might be in serious danger."
"So, what do you propose?" Kyoko asked, her almond-shaped eyes locked on her step-sister. "He's already given us responsibilities."
"Yoshiko, Erina, Fernando, and the Fontierras are still lurking," Marla added, her tone laced with concern.
"And don't forget Javier," Muro chimed in, frowning.
"I know Mom is in danger while Yoshiko and Erina are around," Jiena acknowledged. "But here's my suggestion."
"We're listening," Kyoko interjected, her interest piqued.
"It would be easier for them to wipe us out if we stick together," Jiena continued, her voice steady. "But if we split up, we could defend ourselves more effectively while keeping them away from Dad and eliminating them."
The siblings nodded in agreement. Rafael sighed, looking at his brothers for support.
"So what would be our role?" Rafael asked, a hint of frustration in his voice.
"Chill out!" Jiena exclaimed, a smile playing on her lips.
Bianca stood up, clearing her throat. "I have decided to move to Tokyo with my husband."
"I wish everyone could move to Tokyo," Muro remarked, a wistful look on his face.
"Only six of us will stay here in the Philippines, while the rest will move to Tokyo," Jiena instructed. "That would be me, Rafael, Kyoko, Mako, Muro, and Marla."
"So, what about me?" Kazuki asked, his expression one of concern.
"Fieldwork?" Kyoko suggested, raising an eyebrow.
"No," Jiena interrupted firmly. "Kazuki has a rising career at the Penthouse. Jasmine might need some help."
"But I think we should prioritize hunting down Fernando and his cohorts," Kyoko proposed, her tone resolute.
"I guess Rafael can do it," Bianca suggested, her eyes on her brother.
Rafael's eyes widened as he looked at his siblings in disbelief. "Is this some kind of joke?"
"No," they responded in unison, their expressions serious.
"Where am I supposed to find those bastards?" Rafael asked, frustration evident in his voice.
"What's the point of our vast resources if you can't find them?" Jiena grinned, effectively adjourning the meeting with a confident nod.
The room fell silent as each sibling processed the plan. The weight of their father's responsibilities and the dangers surrounding them hung heavily in the air.
----
At five in the evening, Rafael entered the presidential study room to find Karl poring over documents, discreetly wiping away tears. Rafael could see the immense burden weighing on his father's shoulders, a weight that seemed to crush him from within.
The door creaked open, and the Archbishop of Manila, Cardinal Marino, stepped inside. Rafael approached his uncle, kissing his ring in a gesture of respect and acknowledgment of his high position within the Church.
"What's troubling you?" the Cardinal asked, his voice filled with concern.
"I can't handle this anymore," Karl confessed, his voice breaking as he finally let his emotions spill out.
Without warning, the Cardinal walked over and punched Karl squarely in the face, knocking him off his chair.
"I can't believe it," the Cardinal said, shaking his head. "The other half of the Three Sages, a war hero, a veteran spy, and a warlord, crying like a child?"
"I never wanted this position! I never wished to be president!" Karl shouted, frustration and despair intertwining in his voice.
"And I never wanted to be the Archbishop of Manila or a Cardinal. I wanted to be a simple priest!" the Cardinal retorted. "But you and Takako lobbied for me to get a cardinal position in Rome."
"So what?!"
"It's karma, brother!"
"You're just a Cardinal working at the Archdiocese. I have an entire nation to protect and nurture, and I never even wanted this job!"
"There it is!" the Cardinal exclaimed, his voice rising. "You wanted to change the system, to transform the country. So why not start now?"
"Easy for you to say," Karl muttered, rubbing his jaw where the Cardinal had struck him.
"You can do it," the Cardinal insisted, softening his tone. "Why don't you delegate most of your powers to a prime minister?"
Karl stood up and looked over at Rafael, his mind turning over the Cardinal's suggestion.
"You just gave me a good idea," Karl said, a smirk slowly forming on his lips. "I guess I will run for president then."
Rafael listened intently, the words clear and resolute. His father had made up his mind to seek election. Meeting his father's eyes, Rafael understood the gravity of the decision. It was a path fraught with challenges, but it was also a cause worth fighting for.