Frostblood: The last dragon Hunter

[SCENE: FOREST PATH NEAR ICE CLAN — NIGHT]

Moonlight filtered through the tall pine trees, silver and cold against the endless snow. A chill wind whispered secrets in the dark as Kotoha hurried along the narrow path, clutching Mai's tiny hand while balancing Shiro on her hip.

"Hurry, both of you," she urged, her breath misting in the cold. "It's late. We can't stay out here now."

Mai looked up, wide-eyed. "Mama, are there monsters?"

Kotoha forced a gentle smile, squeezing her daughter's hand tighter. "Don't worry, Mai. Just stay close to me, alright?"

But the forest answered with a low rustle. A pair of crimson eyes glowed from the shadows ahead. Kotoha froze. "No... stay behind me!"

Branches cracked — three dark shapes stepped into the moonlight, growling low, their claws scraping frozen earth. Mai whimpered. Shiro buried his face in Kotoha's shoulder.

"Mama, what will happen now?" Mai whispered.

Kotoha's arms wrapped tighter around her children. "Don't be afraid. Hold on tight."

A monster lunged — all teeth and claws and black hunger. Kotoha shut her eyes, bracing for pain.

But instead, a sharp clang split the night — then silence.

She dared to open her eyes. Kaoru stood between her and the beasts, his sword gleaming silver in the moonlight. The first monster lay lifeless at his feet, snow already swallowing its dark blood.

"It's alright, Kotoha-san," Kaoru said without turning, voice calm as the falling snow. "Stay back — I'll handle this."

The remaining creatures circled him, snarling. Kaoru's breath rose in soft clouds. He took one step forward — then moved like a shadow splitting frost. Steel met flesh. Another beast fell.

The last monster leapt for his blind side — but Kaoru spun, blade whispering through the cold. The final growl died with it.

Silence returned to the forest. Kaoru lowered his sword and turned, meeting Kotoha's wide eyes. She held Mai and Shiro close, her shoulders shaking.

"We're safe…" she breathed. Her voice cracked with relief. "Thank you, Kaoru. You saved us."

Mai peeked out from her mother's arms, eyes bright with wonder. "Kaoru-big bro… you really are strong."

Kaoru let out a small smile. He stepped forward, ruffled Mai's hair with a gloved hand. "Stay close to your mother. I'll walk you home now."

Sword resting on his shoulder, Kaoru turned toward the snowy path. Beside him, Kotoha and her children clung together, their footprints trailing behind them like tiny lanterns in the frozen night — a fragile warmth following in Kaoru's silent footsteps.