The cavern shook as the colossal **Ancient Guardian** awakened.
Stone cracked and crumbled from its body as it stepped forward, revealing a massive dragon-shaped construct made entirely of ancient black rock. Its wings unfolded with a grinding sound, releasing clouds of dust that filled the air.
Two glowing crimson eyes locked onto John.
For a moment, neither of them moved.
Then—
**ROAR!!!**
The stone dragon unleashed a thunderous roar that shook the cavern.
John grinned.
His golden eyes gleamed with excitement.
"…Now this is interesting."
The system panel flashed again.
**[Enemy Identified]**
**Ancient Guardian**
**Tier: 9 Peak**
John flexed his claws.
A Tier 9 peak creature.
That meant it was **far stronger than anything he had fought recently**.
But instead of fear…
John felt excitement.
After all—
If he wanted to reach Tier 10 someday…
This was the kind of opponent he needed.
