Crossword Genius

Like the mythical orc, maybe, it never really existed (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

roc

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'it never really existed' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'like the mythical orc' is the wordplay.
'orc' can be anagrammed to 'ROC'.
But, I am not sure how the anagram is indicated.

'maybe' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for roc that I've seen before include "Sinbad's giant bird" , "Enormous legendary bird" , "Enormous, mythical bird of prey" , "Mythical bird; sounds like boulder" , "Mythical creature from Arabia" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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