CALLA THE MYSTERIOUS SPIRIT

Ariel twisted; her body has been trained to respond to all emergencies. The jaguar's jaws snapped inches from her face, the hot breath a reminder of the danger of such a spirit beast. She spun, her sword flashing as it sliced through the air. The jaguar rolled to the side, evading her strike, but Ariel's resolve hardened. She wouldn't become prey in this dance of survival.

"Come on, big kitty!"

She stepped forward, baiting it with feigned confidence. The jaguar paused, tilting its head, sizing her up.

In a burst of speed, it charged again. Ariel leaped and pivoted, her blade carving through the air. A hiss erupted from the creature as it skidded to avoid her blow, claws raking against the tree trunk.

"Nice try!"