Wolf’s Rain

The ruined city lay beneath a cold, silver moon. Kiba led the wolves through the shattered streets, with Tsume, Hige, Toboe, Blue, and Emma close behind. Cheza traveled among them, her presence carrying the fragile hope of finding Paradise. Emma had stayed near Cheza throughout their journey. She was brave and protective, always watching the shadows whenever danger drew close. That night, her instincts warned her that something was wrong. Darcia appeared at the far end of the street. His dark figure emerged from the mist, his gaze fixed on Cheza. The wolves immediately spread out, preparing to defend the Flower Maiden. Kiba moved to the front, Tsume lowered his head in a threatening stance, and Blue circled toward Darcia's flank. Hige and Toboe stayed close to Cheza, ready to guide her away. But Darcia moved before they could stop him. But Darcia moved before they could stop him. Emma rushed forward, placing herself between him and Cheza. She leaped at Darcia, desperately trying to force him away from the Flower Maiden. For a brief moment, she managed to distract him, giving Cheza time to retreat. Then Darcia caught Emma by the shoulder. He clamped down with terrible force and violently wrenched her aside. The attack left her shoulder catastrophically injured, damaging the underlying bone and leaving her unable to stand properly. Emma fell onto the stone pavement, stunned by the sudden loss of strength. Kiba lunged at Darcia, his white fur bristling. Tsume joined the attack, striking from the side, while Blue darted forward to keep Darcia from reaching Cheza. Hige hurried Cheza behind the shelter of a collapsed wall, and Toboe stayed beside her, watching the battle with wide, frightened eyes. Emma struggled to get up.