Chapter 23. Back to Square One

With a thundering crash, I collapse on Anchaal's flailing body, silencing her struggles. My heavy hind-legs push her large head into the damp tarmac, rendering her unconscious. Praying that I haven't injured her too badly, I howl for much-needed help. A sodden James, who witnessed the whole scene, is the only one who comes sprinting towards us, every other fighter surging in the opposite direction. There's shock etched into his features, as he struggles to figure out what he should do. "Anchaal-- she was ready to attack you, Aly." He mutters in disbelief. The rain begins to ease up, security lights blinding my sensitive vision. I bark once, retracting my claws and staggering into an upright position. Having landed awkwardly, Anchaal's weight had squashed one of my paws. I'm having a hard time trying to shake some feeling into it. James steadies me, using his remaining hand to check Anchaal's pulse. "She's alive...still breathing." He reassures me.