Holding your palms upward, you summon a swirling orb of golden spiritual energy, letting it dance between your fingers. The wolf spirit's burning eyes track the movement warily, but its growl lessens slightly. 'I mean no harm,' you say softly, letting the energy pulse brighter. 'Only to restore what has been lost.'

The orb floats gently toward the massive creature. At first it recoils, but then curiosity seems to win out. The wolf sniffs at the offering, its hot breath making the energy shimmer. With a cautious lick, it absorbs the power, and you watch as some of its matted fur smooths and its eyes clear slightly from their murky red to a softer amber.

'Foolish kitsune,' it rumbles, but there's less malice in its voice now. 'Your generosity will be your undoing in these dark times.' The spirit steps aside reluctantly, revealing the path once more. 'The shadows have taken the shrine's guardian. Without it, the bell remains silent.'

As you move to pass, the wolf suddenly blocks your way again with one massive paw. 'But know this - the corruption goes deeper than stolen relics. Something ancient stirs beneath the mountain.' Its ears flatten against its skull. 'Even my pack dared not hunt there when the howling began.'

The torii gate stands just beyond, its once-vibrant red paint now peeling and dull. Through it, you can see broken stone steps leading upward into mist. The wolf watches you intently. 'Your magic is strong, golden one. But is it strong enough?' With that final warning, it melts back into the forest shadows, leaving you alone before the sacred path.