At the same time, a gentle yet firm current of Qi formed out of thin air, like an invisible hand pushing lightly against the stag's flank.
The stag's charge shifted almost imperceptibly.
It brushed past the edge of the small tree, its heavy body stumbling for a moment. The stag let out a confused cry before changing direction and plunging headfirst into the dense woods on the other side, quickly disappearing from sight.
The entire encounter, from the stag's appearance to its escape, lasted only a few breaths.
Silence fell over the clearing, broken only by the rustle of wind in the leaves.
Kaiden lowered his bow, sighing in relief. He turned to his sister, a look of astonishment on his face.
Annie ran over, her eyes sparkling as she gazed at Eleanor. "Eleanor, what was that?"
Eleanor lowered her hand. Her dark eyes were serene as she simply nodded, offering no further explanation.
