As Erlin mentioned, taking the northeastern route would shorten their path. So the trio began moving in that direction.
The forest grew thicker, wilder. Even though the three of them were powerful, they remained alert—this was the territory of corrupted beasts.
They encountered several on the way, but Zane and Shelby actually welcomed such obstacles. It was the perfect opportunity to train, to grow.
Their path was soon blocked by a massive feline creature.
It stood tall and powerful, resembling a tiger in body, but with the majestic mane and head of a lion. A Tigon?
No. Not quite.
Its tail thrashed violently—adorned with bladed tusks like curved daggers growing from the bone itself. Its fur glistened dark with corruption, and the air around it was tinged with a low growl of mana instability.
Ding!
[Corrupted Beast Detected]
[Target: Corrupted Tigon]
Zane examined the clearing.
