The near-Tier-V beast changed how Aurelian looked at Glasswake.
Before that hunt, the system had felt like a rough but manageable training ground. Dangerous, yes, but dangerous in a useful way.
The beasts were strong enough to sharpen the fleet and provide valuable materials, yet not strong enough to threaten the expedition if everyone stayed disciplined.
After the larger specimen appeared, that confidence became more cautious.
A near-Tier V creature could still be handled by the fleet under the right conditions. They had proved that.
But a true Tier V space beast was different. At that level, the creature would not simply be a bigger target with more health.
It would likely have its own territory, stronger instincts, and enough raw power to threaten even high-grade shipgirls if the fight turned careless.
Astra could face such a beast if needed, especially after her refit, but Aurelian had no intention of testing it unless the situation forced him to.
