"Much better," Ethan said with a nod of approval. "That could definitely knock a wolf off its feet." He rolled his shoulder, feeling the faint pull on his mana reserves. "It's more taxing but worth it. Let's see how it handles in an actual fight." He turned to Lia. "Ready?"
Lia's hazel eyes glinted with determination as she tightened her grip on her blade. "Yes, Master."
"Tweety!" Ethan called for the bird. "Take us to the wolf pack." The bird let out a sharp chirp before flitting ahead. The two followed closely, moving silently through the dense forest.
As they approached the stream, the distant sound of growls grew louder. Ethan crouched low, signaling Lia to do the same. Parting a cluster of low-hanging branches, he spotted the pack lounging by the water's edge.
Six wolves, their sleek fur shimmering in the sunlight, were spread out in a loose formation. A few were drinking from the stream, while others lay in the shade, their ears twitching lazily.