A Taste of Ash and Humility

Enara's smirk grew as dark energy pooled around her hand, merging with the fiery aura around Liria's. Their combined flames created a crackling sphere of molten shadow and flame, ready to blast the Direhound to bits. For the first time, a spark of confidence flickered in both girls' eyes. The beast snarled, clearly sensing the surge of power in front of it.

"Ready?" Liria grinned, tightening her grip.

"More than ready," Enara shot back. "Let's make this thing regret being born."

They unleashed their energy, sending a wave of fiery darkness surging toward the Direhound. The impact was explosive, rocking the ground and sending up a cloud of smoke and ash. For a moment, all was silent.

"Did we… actually do it?" Liria's voice held a note of disbelief. She took a tentative step forward, peering through the smoke.

Enara crossed her arms, looking insufferably pleased. "Of course we did. I mean, who could possibly survive that?"