"Clop, clop, clop..."
The sudden footsteps rang especially clearly through the silent night.
Su Hao's heart tightened. Thinking Qin Dong's reinforcements had arrived, he whipped around.
Qin Dong had heard the footsteps too, and wild joy instantly appeared on his face. He thought his companions had come to rescue him.
Both their gazes turned toward the direction of the footsteps. A figure in ordinary autumn clothes emerged from behind the reeds.
The person looked to be in his early twenties, with delicate features. He carried no weapon and wore little expression, looking just like an ordinary passerby.
The delight on Qin Dong's face vanished without a trace, replaced by confusion.
Su Hao, however, relaxed. He remembered looking at photos of the three temporary workers before the battle. The person before him was one of them—his name was Lin Li.
Lin Li had been on his way to attack the laboratory when he sensed two surging waves of Spiritual Energy near the pond, so he had detoured to take a look.
He walked to within a short distance of the two men, swept his gaze over Su Hao and Qin Dong, and quickly distinguished friend from foe. Then he asked, "Need a hand?"
Su Hao had already gauged Qin Dong's strength. Although he had spent some stamina, he still held the upper hand. It would only take a little more time.
He shook his head firmly. "No need. I can handle him alone. Keep going and help tear through their defenses."
Lin Li nodded without another word and turned toward the laboratory.
But at that moment, Qin Dong suddenly moved... His gaze hardened. His right hand shot out and seized the vine shield covered in cracks on his left arm. With a vicious yank, he tore the shield off his arm.