The Rain Still Falls Part II

The clock read 20:44.
Lumina was atop one of Wonder City's tallest skyscrapers, an imposing silhouette against the night sky laden with clouds. The city below her pulsed with life, the lights shining like artificial stars on the vast urban carpet. The rain fell incessantly, creating a watery veil that flowed down her bluish armor, making her plates glow ghostly under the intermittent lightning.

— Dad, why are we moving again? — the girl asked as she closed the suitcases.

— We have to go, dear. It's for your safety. — replied the father, trying to hide the fear in his voice.

As she writhed, a stream of memories invaded her mind, like a movie she couldn't pause. Lumina was remembering something, something buried in her past. Sensations and images emerged, fragments of another life. Blurry images of familiar faces, a contagious laugh, and a sense of warmth and security.

— Are you getting used to the new school? — the father asked after dinner.

— Yes, dad. It's hard to make friends, but I'm trying. — she replied with a brave smile.

Peace was illusory. The man knew this, and he couldn't keep running forever. And then, on that rainy night, he felt his time was running out. He was working in a workshop while his daughter waited, bored, to leave. Suddenly, he saw two men in dark suits at the entrance. His heart raced.

— Get out of here, Sofia. We need to leave now. — he said, rushing home.

They grabbed their things and ran through the wet streets, trying to find a safe place. But the men kept pursuing them, determined to capture them.

— Stay calm, Sofia. I will resolve this. —  he said, trying to calm her, while they hid in an alley.

The mafiosos' footsteps echoed in the alley. They were too close. They knew there was no escape.

— Ricardo, you thought you could deceive us and run away? — one of the mobsters said with a cruel smile. And who is this cute little thing behind you?

— Forget the girl. She has nothing to do with this, it's my fault. — he pleaded, desperate.

— That's not our problem. Do you realize the damage you caused? You screwed the boss big time, man. — the other replied, drawing a gun.

Ricardo looked at his daughter, trying to convey all the love and courage he felt.
— Run, Sofia, you don't deserve this life! — He said calmly, pushing her away.

Sofia ran and climbed the fence that divided the alley without looking back. Until she heard gunshots, they echoed through the alley. She turned almost instantly, Sofia screamed as she saw her father's life ebb away.

— DAAAD! — her voice echoed as darkness enveloped her.

The memories tore at her inside, and she began to writhe, her screams echoing into the stormy night. She tried to cry, but it was impossible; her body produced no tears. The glow of her face began to fade, her once vibrant demeanor now dimmed and desolate.

The pain of the memories, the guilt, and the confusion overwhelmed her, and she could no longer stand. With one last desperate scream, Lumina lost her balance and fell from the tower, plunging into the rainy darkness. Her body sliced through the air, the rain blending with the wind whistling in her metallic ears.

As she descended, Lumina contemplated the vastness of Wonder City. The towering buildings and bustling avenues unfolded beneath her eyes like a complex mosaic of metal, glass, and concrete. It was a city of contrasts, where the old and the new intertwined in a tapestry of gothic, Victorian, and futuristic architecture.

Lightning slashed the sky, illuminating the contours of the buildings and casting dramatic shadows over the urban landscape. From her elevated vantage point, Lumina could see the people on the streets, small figures moving under umbrellas and awnings, unaware of her presence.

The plates of her armor glimmered softly, reflecting the lights and shadows dancing around her. The luminous staff in her hands emitted a constant and comforting light, which now began to falter amid the storm.

Seconds stretched into eternity, and the serenity of the fall allowed Lumina a rare introspection. The city below her was a symbol of hope and progress on that side of the planet, but also of sins and reflections. And as she fell, she finally understood the role she was given in her creation and the reason for her name. She promised herself that she would survive and finally fulfill her role as the guiding light that humans so desperately needed.

When she finally approached the ground, time seemed to resume its normal pace. The imminent impact became inevitable... and then...

END.

Charles Barkley, the charismatic host of the show, was seated in one of the armchairs, his perfectly tailored suit and captivating smile lighting up his face. He held a tablet, consulting his notes as he awaited the entrance of the night's special guest.

On the other side of the studio, a door silently opened, revealing the graceful figure of Halo. Her silver hair reflected the spotlight, creating a halo of light around her head. The outfit she wore was a masterpiece of silk and crystals that shimmered with every movement, making her look like a mystical goddess. Halo walked to the center of the set with natural elegance, her presence filling the studio with a magical aura.

The audience enthusiastically applauded as Halo sat in the armchair next to Charles. She waved to the spectators, a radiant smile lighting up her face.

Charles smiled, pleased with Halo's presence. "Good evening, folks! We're back with another episode of 'One Winged Angel,' and today we have a very special guest. Straight from the stage of the city's most incredible shows, please give a warm welcome to our star, Halo!" he said, turning to the audience. "Halo, it's a pleasure to have you here with us."

— Good evening, Charles. Good evening, Wonder City! —  greeted Halo, her melodious voice resonating throughout the studio.

The audience responded with warm applause.

— Halo, we were all very shaken by the incident at your last show. Can you tell us a bit about what happened and how you are dealing with it? — Charles asked, his expression becoming more serious.

Halo sighed lightly, the glow in her eyes dimming a bit as she recalled the fateful night.

— Of course, Charles. It was a difficult night for all of us. During the show, there was an explosion in the VIP area that interrupted the performance and caused panic among those present. Fortunately, we managed to evacuate the stadium quickly and minimize the casualties. Now, we are working to help the families who were affected. I will dedicate part of the profits from the next shows to offer support and financial aid to the victims of this tragic incident. — she explained, with an expression of sincere concern.

Charles, admiring Halo's dedication to the community, said. — It's admirable to see how you are committing to the community, Halo. I'm sure many, if not most, are very happy with this initiative, and we pray for the well-being of all the families involved. — Then he switched to a lighter tone. — And, I must say, you look more beautiful than ever. You look even younger! 

Halo laughed, a soft and melodious sound that echoed through the studio. — Thank you, Charles. I think that captivating and happy energy from the stage has that effect, you know!? — she replied, with a playful smile.

— Changing the subject a bit, I know everyone wants to know: what's the next step in your career? What do you have planned? — Charles asked, refocusing on the interview.

Halo smiled again, her eyes shining with enthusiasm. "I'm very excited to announce that my next tour will be in New Asia, with all the talents from Mayer agency. We are planning an incredible show, with new sets and songs that will surely enchant the audience, and a preview of my new album. It will be a wonderful opportunity to share my art with new fans and bring a bit of my magic to other places," she revealed, her smile contagious to everyone in the studio.

Charles smiled back, clearly excited with the news. — That sounds amazing, Halo! I'm sure it will be a tremendous success. We will all be looking forward to seeing it and especially your new album. — he said enthusiastically.

— Thank you, Charles. And thanks to all my fans and friends in Wonder City. You are the reason I do what I do, after all, I was born here and I can't wait to see you all again soon! — replied Halo, looking directly at the camera, her voice full of gratitude.

Charles turned again to the audience, his smile even broader. The interview continued for a while longer, and then it came to an end.

— And on this exhilarating night, we wrap up another episode of 'One Winged Angel.' Until next time, Wonder City, and don't forget: keep your wings open and fly high!" he concluded, as applause filled the studio once more.

Halo waved one last time to the audience before standing up and bidding Charles farewell. As she walked out of the studio, she felt more determined than ever to continue her mission of spreading joy and hope, not only in Wonder City but everywhere her music could reach. The TV turned off.
The clock kept ticking.