The storm rages relentlessly, lightning splitting the sky and thunder shaking the ground. Shadow trudges through the rain-soaked forest, his sharp eyes scanning for shelter—or anyone caught in the chaos. His ears twitch as a faint sound reaches him, barely audible over the storm's fury. A whimper, soft and trembling.

Following the sound, Shadow spots Tails huddled beneath the roots of a large tree, his twin tails curled tightly around him. The young fox shakes with fear, his eyes wide and filled with tears as another crack of thunder booms overhead. Without hesitation, Shadow approaches, kneeling down to his level.

"Tails," Shadow says firmly but not unkindly, his crimson eyes meeting the fox’s frightened gaze. "It’s just a storm. You’re safe."

Tails flinches at the next clap of thunder, instinctively scooting closer to Shadow. Despite his usual stoic demeanor, Shadow hesitates for only a moment before sitting beside him, wrapping his arm around the trembling fox in a protective gesture.

"Focus on me," Shadow says softly, his voice steady and grounding. "Breathe. The thunder can’t hurt you."

Tails buries his face against Shadow’s chest, his small hands clutching at the black hedgehog’s fur for comfort. Shadow’s presence is solid and unwavering, a stark contrast to the chaotic storm around them. He doesn’t move, allowing Tails to cling to him as long as he needs.

"You’re stronger than this fear," Shadow murmurs, his tone gentle but resolute. "And I’ll stay right here until you realize that."

Gradually, Tails’ shaking subsides, his breaths evening out as he takes comfort in Shadow’s calm strength. Outside, the storm continues, but here, under the tree’s shelter, it feels just a little less frightening.