However, Bai Yi was taken aback by Huan's transformation into a formidable and imposing figure since the onset of the apocalypse, particularly as he had not anticipated this evolution. He chose not to engage Huan on an emotional level, as he recalled that even before the cataclysm, Huan exhibited a consistent aversion to human interaction, often displaying aggressive behavior towards anyone who attempted to approach him.
Bai Yi was not surprised by Huan's transformation, having recently overheard conversations in the cafeteria regarding the evolution of not only humans but also many animal species following the dramatic changes to the world. He was astounded to learn of a rat, notably larger than an average cat, that had been spotted in the cafeteria, confidently navigating the space while carrying a piece of bacon amidst the chaos of panicked onlookers.
The concept that animals could awaken and evolve after the apocalypse left a significant impact on Bai Yi, filling him with envy towards his classmates who had developed special abilities during this tumultuous time. It was particularly disheartening for him to see many animals attain abilities he had longed for while he was still striving to find his own.
As Bai Yi sprinted through the woods, he could sense Huan's massive presence gaining on him, creating a palpable pressure. Just days prior, he would have fled at the first sight of Huan after awakening his own abilities, but now, motivated by a commitment to ensure Xia He's safety, Bai Yi resolved to confront the situation rather than retreat.
Nevertheless, he was not reckless enough to engage directly with such a fearsome creature. When Huan lunged at him, Bai Yi swiftly rolled aside, avoiding a direct confrontation while maneuvering deeper into the woods.
Huan impulsively pursued him, having previously regarded these woods as his territory before the world changed. Bai Yi's intrusion would not go unchallenged, despite Huan's substantial size, which, while enhancing his combat capabilities, restricted his agility within the dense forest.
Recognizing the strategic disadvantage Huan faced, Bai Yi focused on evading capture rather than standing his ground in a direct fight. As he adeptly navigated the underbrush, Huan struggled to move effectively, frequently becoming ensnared in branches and undergrowth.
However, exhaustion quickly set in for Bai Yi, who found himself increasingly aware of Huan's remarkable ability to track him through scent. Having already expended considerable energy during their encounter, he realized he could not endure this chase for much longer.
As fatigue enveloped him, Bai Yi felt his senses dulling. Realizing he could no longer afford to wait, he steeled himself and determined to devise an escape plan. With a sudden burst of resolve, he charged at Huan, knowing full well that a direct escape was futile.
Thinking quickly, Bai Yi attempted to strike Huan. Huan countered, forcefully deflecting Bai Yi's weapon. The ensuing clash caused Bai Yi to stagger back and suffer a painful blow to his chest from Huan's massive hind legs, sending him crashing to the ground.
As blood seeped from his wounds, Bai Yi, recognizing the dog's mounting aggression, braced himself for the confrontation ahead. He managed to remain focused, gripping his weapon tightly, preparing for the inevitable clash as Huan circled him, searching for weaknesses.
Despite being considerably outmatched, Bai Yi understood that he could not afford to yield. With a surge of adrenaline, he began a cautious offensive, lunging at Huan in an attempt to maintain control of the standoff.
After a fierce exchange, Bai Yi found himself unable to land a decisive blow as Huan continued to overpower him. Ultimately, his stamina waned, and while scrabbling to maintain his grip on Huan's head, Bai Yi recognized he could not falter.
In a desperate move, Bai Yi managed to stab at Huan's eye, momentarily stunning the animal. Seizing the opportunity, Bai Yi pushed against the advancing threat, though he was ultimately propelled back by the ferocious beast.
Despite his injuries, Bai Yi fought to keep consciousness as Huan's rage intensified following the attack. Consequently, the perilous standoff transformed into a fierce struggle.
In what seemed a pivotal moment, Bai Yi defiantly declared his intention to resist as Huan bore down upon him again, uncertainty and instinct battling within the creature as it hesitated momentarily at the sound of Bai Yi's defiance. Nevertheless, the fear of its injuries spurred Huan on, leading to a renewed charge against the beleaguered Bai Yi.