As the Grade 4 beast prowled forward, its low growls sent vibrations through the ground beneath them. Li Wei could see his teammates tense up, their grips tightening on their weapons. Across the clearing, Liu Qing's team held their position with calm focus, though even she eyed the beast with a wary gaze.
The creature's eyes glowed a deep, feral red, flicking from one side to the other as it assessed both teams. Li Wei could feel the raw power radiating from the beast, its wild intensity reminiscent of the Guardian beast he'd previously encountered—yet this one was unrestrained, driven purely by instinct and rage.
Liu Qing caught Li Wei's eye, a silent understanding passing between them. She gave a slight nod, recognizing the need for coordination, even if neither team fully trusted the other. "We'll take the left," she called out, her voice steady but commanding. "Stay in sync with us."
