I raised my hand, palm facing the lunging beast.
My mind focused, voice steady in my head.
[Spatial Shield]
Essence surged from within, forming a thin, transparent barrier just inches in front of my hand. It wasn't a glowing wall or some flashy dome. It was barely visible, like a ripple in the air, distorting everything behind it. But I could feel the tension in it, the pressure it held back.
The tiger crashed into the shield with full force.
For a second, it looked like it might break through.
Then, snap.
The force of its lunge rebounded off the shield. Its body twisted midair, and it landed awkwardly on all fours, sliding back with a heavy thud. The tiger let out a furious growl, stunned by the sudden stop.
I smirked and stood upright again.
"Nice try. But you're gonna have to do better than bad breath and a tackle."
The shield faded slowly, leaving no trace.
