Haru steadied his grip on the shimmering blade, his eyes locked on the snarling wolf. The beast's eyes, glowing a fierce amber, tracked his every movement. It was a direwolf, one of the larger and more aggressive creatures that roamed the forests. Haru knew this encounter could end in bloodshed if he wasn't careful.

The wolf lunged again, but Haru was ready this time. He sidestepped the attack and brought his blade across in a wide arc, releasing a burst of wind that sent the beast skidding across the forest floor. The wolf rolled to its feet, shaking off dirt and leaves, but it hesitated, as if reconsidering its assault.