Nina and Yanai reacted instantly, summoning thick vines to shield themselves.
The golden eagle was far more formidable than expected.
Blades of radiant gold shot from its wings, slicing cleanly through the vines as it dove toward them with lethal force.
"Nina, this eagle must be the guardian spirit beast of the star source," Yanai said, his voice tense. "If we want it, we have to defeat it first."
"I know. But it can fly… that gives it an advantage over our abilities."
Even as she spoke, Nina cast a protective barrier and wrapped Dian securely in layers of vines, ensuring he would not be harmed.
"I'll hold it down. You focus on attacking," Yanai said.
"Alright."
He seized an opening and lunged forward, catching the eagle's talons with his vines and dragging it downward.
The eagle shrieked, golden light flashing as it tried to sever the restraints, but Nina intercepted its attack and struck back.
The air trembled with power as the eagle fought desperately to break free.
