Nestled in the northern mountains, just thirty minutes by train from Kyoto, Kurama was a place that seemed plucked from another world. As the train wove through the emerald hills, passengers could glimpse ancient temples perched among the trees and small villages that clung to the landscape like secrets waiting to be uncovered. The dense cedar forests that blanketed the region exuded an almost supernatural stillness, interrupted only by the soft rustle of leaves or the distant cry of a bird.
Yet, Kurama's beauty masked a truth unknown to the world. The forest was not merely a sanctuary for monks and tourists—it was the hidden domain of the Shadow Wolf Pack. This ancient clan, whose existence intertwined with the region's folklore, guarded its territory with secrecy as impenetrable as the woods themselves. At its heart lay the Kageōden, a mansion steeped in history and shrouded in mystery.
The palace was a sight to behold: dark stone walls and towering wooden beams reached skyward as if striving to touch the heavens. Ivy crept across its surface, softening its austere presence and blending it into the surrounding forest. Cedar trees—some hundreds of years old—stood like silent sentinels, casting dappled shadows on the intricately tiled roof. The curved edges of the roof hinted at a traditional Japanese aesthetic, and delicate wooden shutters framed the windows, guarding the secrets that lay within.
While the palace embodied the timeless legacy of the Shadow Wolf Pack, its connection to the outside world came in the form of Shadowlane Logistics, a business that had withstood the rise and fall of empires. Established in 1892, Shadowlane Logistics specialized in the discreet transport of rare and high-value goods: artifacts, luxury items, confidential documents, and bespoke shipments that required unparalleled precision and trust. Operating under a shroud of professionalism, the company had earned a reputation as an untouchable titan in the logistics industry, surviving two world wars and the relentless march of modernity.
The day-to-day operations of Shadowlane Logistics were overseen by Delta Iori Kagerou, Hizuki's cousin and the true power behind the company. A veteran of the Great War 140 years ago, Iori was one of the rare survivors of that harrowing time, a living relic of a bygone era. He bore the scars—both physical and emotional—of battles that most could scarcely imagine, and his sharp, piercing gaze reflected wisdom that came only from enduring unspeakable trials.
At 158 years old, Iori was eight years older than Hizuki and had initially been groomed for the position of Beta. His skills in strategy and his commanding presence made him an obvious choice, but Iori had chosen a different path. Politics and pack governance held no allure for him. Instead, he had let his great-grandson, Jushin, take on the Beta duties and poured himself into the world of commerce, transforming Shadowlane Logistics into a global powerhouse. His work ensured the pack's prosperity, allowing them to maintain their secrecy and independence in a rapidly changing world.
The headquarters of Shadowlane Logistics stood at the edge of the pack's territory, near the boundaries of human habitation. The building was a seamless blend of contemporary design and natural elements. Large glass walls reflected the surrounding forest, while the minimalist interiors exuded efficiency and sophistication. Inside, human employees bustled about, oblivious to the true nature of their employers.
On this particular day, Iori sat in his office on the top floor of the headquarters, reviewing a shipment manifest. His office was austere yet elegant, adorned with artifacts and mementos from his travels and centuries-long existence. A well-worn katana hung on the wall behind his desk—a relic of his warrior days, now more symbol than weapon.
A knock at the door interrupted his thoughts, and a young wolf stepped in, bowing respectfully.
"Delta Iori, the artifact shipment bound for Berlin has been scheduled. Kaede's team will handle the transport."
Iori nodded, his voice calm and measured. "Ensure that every route is secured. This shipment cannot afford any delays."
"Yes, Delta," the wolf replied before leaving the room.
Alone once more, Iori turned his attention to the window, gazing out at the endless expanse of trees. Shadowlane Logistics was not merely a business to him—it was his way of ensuring the pack's future while honoring the lives lost in the Great War. He had no regrets about stepping away from the political arena. He knew his worth and his role, and he fulfilled it with unwavering dedication.
As for Hizuki, the Alpha's priorities lay elsewhere. Though his name appeared on every contract and shipment, Hizuki cared little for the company's operations. To him, Shadowlane Logistics was simply a means to an end—a way to take on delivery tasks that allowed him to search for his mate in peace. Currently, Hizuki was in Paris, following faint leads and whispers of a bond he had yet to find.
Iori, for his part, respected his cousin's choices, even if they left him with the weight of the pack's prosperity on his shoulders. Hizuki's journey was deeply personal, and Iori understood better than anyone the lengths one would go to for love. Still, the pack's stability was a priority, and Iori was determined to ensure that Shadowlane Logistics continued to thrive, no matter what.
In the distance, the Kageōden stood, its shadow stretching over the forest like a guardian's embrace. The ancient structure loomed like a sentinel over the pack's territory, a symbol of power and heritage. However, as per the Alpha's strict orders, only a select few were allowed to approach the palace itself. Its sanctity was fiercely protected, reserved as a private haven for the Alpha and those entrusted with his closest confidences.
The rest of the pack resided in modernized homes and buildings that sprawled nearer to Shadowlane Logistics' commercial hub. These homes were designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding forest, incorporating traditional architecture with modern amenities. The contrast between the ancient Kageōden and the contemporary residences symbolized the pack's balance of tradition and progress.
Despite all these structures existing within the same vast domain, the palace was still a ten-minute drive from the more populated areas. The expanse of the territory ensured that the Alpha's residence remained secluded, maintaining its air of mystery and reverence even among the pack members.
For visitors, however, the pack had constructed a separate facility near the forest's edge—a guest house designed to rival a four-star traditional inn. With sliding shoji screens, tatami flooring, and lush gardens accented by koi ponds, the guest house exuded a charm that blended luxury with cultural authenticity. The pack members who worked there ensured that every visitor received impeccable treatment, their dedication reflecting the pride they took in representing their domain.
At present, the guest house hosted Rina Ookaze, the Salutary of the Wind Pack, renowned for her healing abilities. She had traveled with her entourage to the Shadow Pack's territory for a special mission: to treat the Beta's grandmother, who was none other than Iori Kagerou's daughter.