The contract's power manifested in a way that defied all expectations.
As Grim stepped forward, energy coalesced beside him, taking shape with startling speed.
A fox materialized next to him. This was not an illusion or projection, but a creature born from the realm's essence itself.
The fox stood nearly three feet tall at the shoulder, its fur a striking combination of blue and white with orange highlights.
Its eyes showed it had intelligence that was clearly beyond that of any normal animal, studying Grim with what appeared to be recognition and acceptance.
"What is that?" Elder Míngzhì gasped from the circle of observers, his voice carrying genuine shock. "I've never seen such a manifestation."
"Neither have I," Húxiān admitted, her divine perception unable to fully categorize what Grim had summoned. "The contract was designed to grant power, not create life."
