Typically when a blade breaks, it won't damage the project. It will make you jump, and make a lot of noise, but if you can keep the project on the table it should be ok.
Don't be afraid of breaking the blade. as you practice you should break fewer and fewer. Blades wear out and break a lot. I buy blades by the gross (144 blades) multiple times a year.
You mentioned the biggest lesson about a piece like you are doing. Start with the details, then work your way out. Think about how to keep the piece as solid as possible for as long as possible.
another thing to remember is that the pattern line is a guideline. once you take the pattern off, no one will know how close or far you were from the line. Look at the back of the piece, I bet you will be able to see the wolves.