Elite-grade Shadow Wolf, Tier 3.
The creature before Tave was massive. Not just in form, but in presence. Towering, heavy with shadow energy, its eyes burned a deeper red than any he had ever seen. This wasn't just any monster.
This was a territory boss.
And even though it technically sat at the same tier as Fang, it was obvious, undeniable, that it was on a completely different scale. It likely hovered near level 30. Hell, its grade could even be higher. Epic, perhaps.
There was no mistaking it. This creature outclassed Tave and Fang.
It wasn't just stronger in raw power, but in skill depth, energy density, and sheer presence. It had seen more, killed more, survived more. And it wasn't alone.
From the darkness, other wolves emerged. Silent, spectral shapes slinking through the trees and shadow. One by one, they stepped into the moonlight. Two, then four, then more. Tave stopped counting after ten.
The forest had heard him.
And now it answered.
