The forest clearing was eerily silent, the tension thick enough to cut with a knife. Kael stood his ground, his heart pounding as Garrick and his wolf-like Spirit Beast, Fang, advanced. Ember crouched low at Kael's feet, its golden fur bristling, while Luna, the newly bonded Moonhare, stood protectively at his side. The air was charged with energy, the faint hum of magic crackling like static.
"Last chance, kid," Garrick sneered, his voice dripping with malice. "Hand over the Moonhare, and I might let you walk away."
Kael clenched his fists, his mind racing. He had never been in a real battle before, and the thought of facing a seasoned Tamer like Garrick was terrifying. But he couldn't back down—not now. Luna had chosen him, and he wasn't about to abandon her.
"She's not yours to take," Kael said, his voice steady despite the fear gnawing at his insides. "And I'm not going anywhere."
Garrick's eyes narrowed, and he gestured to Fang. The wolf-like Spirit Beast lunged forward, its jaws snapping at Kael. Kael stumbled back, his instincts screaming at him to run, but he forced himself to stand his ground.
"Ember, distract Fang!" Kael shouted, his voice trembling. "Luna, use your light!"
Ember darted forward, its small form a blur of golden light as it zigzagged around Fang. The wolf snarled, swiping at Ember but missing by inches. Meanwhile, Luna's fur began to glow brighter, and a beam of moonlight shot from her body, blinding Fang temporarily.
Kael took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. The Ardent Tome had spoken of harmony between Tamer and Spirit Beast, of drawing strength from their bond. He closed his eyes, focusing on the connection he shared with Ember and Luna. He could feel their energy, their determination, flowing through him like a current.
When he opened his eyes, a golden shield of energy surrounded him and his Spirit Beasts. Fang lunged again, but the shield repelled him, sending him sprawling.
Garrick cursed, his face twisted with anger. "You'll regret this, Ardent."
He retreated into the shadows, Fang limping behind him. Kael collapsed to his knees, his body trembling with exhaustion. But he couldn't help the grin that spread across his face.
"We did it," he said, looking at Ember and Luna. "We actually did it."
Ember barked happily, and Luna nuzzled his hand. For the first time in years, Kael felt like he was on the right path.