The ground shook violently as the Wrath lunged forward, its roar echoing through the valley. Neblaheim leapt without hesitation, placing himself between Arin and the monstrous creature. With a shield raised and unwavering determination, he held the Wrath off long enough for Arin to regain his footing.
"Back!" Arin barked, grabbing Neblaheim's arm and pulling him out of immediate danger. He turned to Hanase. "Cast a strength buff on him — now!"
Hanase's hands glowed as she reinforced Neblaheim's muscles and reflexes. Arin's eyes narrowed; he leapt forward and unleashed a flurry of ice spears, striking the Wrath from multiple angles. Immediately after, he combined Inferno and Sand Tornado, forcing the creature into a defensive frenzy.
"Use the ice spears, Neblaheim! Aim for the heart!"
Arin shouted. Neblaheim caught one of the spears mid-air and hurled it at the Wrath. The creature twisted and struck at Arin, plunging a clawed hand into his stomach. Neblaheim intercepted the attack, dragging Arin back toward Hanase so she could heal his wounds.
With ice-blue eyes blazing and determination burning bright, Arin rose again. He charged, slicing toward the Wrath's head, narrowly dodging its attacks using Shireyukoka, his newly mastered ability to sense the intent of those who thirst for blood. Sliding beneath the creature, he disappeared from its field of vision.
Hanase and Neblaheim moved in perfect coordination. "Ice Age, now!" Neblaheim commanded, pinning the Wrath down as Hanase's hands erupted with frosty energy. The advanced-class spell Ice Age engulfed the Wrath, freezing its massive body solid. A final tremor shook the ground, then silence fell.
The threat was neutralized. The three of them climbed atop a nearby mountain, setting up camp under the night sky. Exhausted but victorious, they shared a brief moment of relief, knowing that the monster realm still held countless challenges ahead.
Arin sat staring at the stars, the cold mountain wind biting his face. He clenched his fists, determination unwavering. This is only the beginning.