Exact level at this moment escapes me when I beat the Dark Elf. I just remember grinding on the Ogres in the cave since Yang did an excellent job of one-upping them with the Fairy Claws. Just get Cid, Yang, and Cecil over 1000 HP and you'll be fine. Once the field's lifted and you can use your actual equipment too, grind a bit while you're in there. The Tower of Zot's a pain.