This was so obvious it didn’t even require observation. The moment Shen Yuan Yuhu appeared before him, Bai Ming had already noticed. Hiding in the shadows just to avoid attention? He could only think this guy was trying to hide in plain sight.

"Your partner’s got far more backbone than you. Sneaking around like this—won’t it be embarrassing if someone spots you?"

Trying to hide from Bai Ming was like attempting to conceal a giant’s body behind a pebble.

"Shocked me, honestly. How’d you find me?"

"Simple. Just sniff yourself."

Bai Ming pointed at the exposed man with mild exasperation.

"Hah…"

Truthfully, Shen Yuan Yuhu was a girl. Unlike men, she carried a natural, faintly sweet human scent. It was a little awkward to admit, but true. Besides, this guy reeked of werewolf—a sharp, unnatural stench Bai Ming had noticed long ago.

"Tch. I thought you’d used some clever trick. Guess you just lowered my interest."

The tall man spat aside, yanked his collar loose, and bared sharp fangs. His face twisted into a snarl.

"Bai Ming, leave him to me."

"Oh. Okay…"

Sensing the man’s killing intent, Shen Yuan Yuhu instinctively stepped in front of Bai Ming. She shielded him behind her back, one hand gripping her sword’s guard.

Normally, a woman protecting a man might seem humiliating. But Bai Ming saw no good reason to refuse—less trouble for him. Let her fight. It wasn’t a big deal, and it saved him energy.

Honestly, he hadn’t closed his eyes since morning. Anyone would be exhausted.

"Don’t push yourself. If you can’t win, just quit."

Bai Ming waved half-heartedly at Shen Yuan Yuhu. He couldn’t help worrying. She’d already made a fool of herself against Li Scar. Another accident would just drag him back in.

Defeating the whole purpose, wasn’t it?

"Hahaha! Doesn’t matter who comes first. Since you’re so eager, little girl—I’ll have you as an appetizer."

Before Shen Yuan Yuhu could reply, the tall man lunged, fist clenched.

But Bai Ming hadn’t misjudged her. Years of training showed in her perfect choice: not retreating, not charging—just standing firm, waiting.

No matter how the enemy shifted, if they didn’t close the distance instantly, the strike would miss. Read their movement. Seize the opening. Stillness overcoming motion.

That’s how it should’ve been.

"Foolish."

While Shen Yuan Yuhu held her draw stance, the tall man had already shifted beside her. No ripple in the air. As if he’d always been there. Before her body could react, he opened his jaws—fangs aimed straight at her throat.