Infinite Evolution-The End of Bugs

"Gunfire?" Chu Xun's expression turned grave as distant explosions of firearms echoed through the air.

Though firearms had gradually lost their prominence in this era where supernatural abilities reigned supreme, the destructive power of large-caliber weapons remained undeniable. Even a low-level awakened superhuman could face mortal danger from such ordnance - a single misstep might result in severe injury or death.

Yet what truly unsettled Chu Xun wasn't the guns themselves, but the chaotic, panicked barrage. Though no firearms expert, he could clearly discern this wasn't the work of one or two weapons. Whatever could make an entire group of armed humans unleash such desperate suppressive fire must be terrifying beyond measure.

His jaw tightening, Chu Xun gripped his weapon and decisively moved in the opposite direction of the gunfire with his xenomorph companion. The incident with the wasteland girl had taught him a vital lesson: never meddle in others' affairs.

His prudence proved wise. Shortly after departing, bloodcurdling screams began drifting through the air. The chaotic gunfire dwindled until silenced by one final agonized shriek. Clearly, the entire armed group had been eradicated.

A shiver ran down Chu Xun's spine as he quickened his pace. Whatever could annihilate trained gunmen was far beyond his current capabilities.

With the xenomorph acting as bodyguard, their journey became markedly smoother. Whenever zombies appeared, the black creature would strike like lightning - slaughtering and consuming the undead with ruthless efficiency.

Through observation, Chu Xun confirmed his hypothesis: the xenomorph was growing through biomass absorption. After devouring seven zombies, its size had visibly increased. Though not yet matching the fully mature specimens from films, its body now measured nearly five feet including tail - 50% growth within a single hour.

An astonishing development.

After nearly an hour's travel, they reached their destination - a crystalline stream. Chu Xun's eyes lit up at the sight of flowing water. His body crusted with congealed zombie blood, the stench had become bearable through exposure, but cleansing remained preferable.

Splash!

He plunged into the knee-deep stream, the icy water eliciting shivers that transformed into exhilarated laughter. Meanwhile, the xenomorph stood vigilant guard. Its smooth exoskeleton shed blood and filth effortlessly, remaining pristine despite numerous kills.

"Refreshing!" Chu Xun gulped mouthfuls of sweet stream water after scrubbing clean. Post-cataclysm nature's silver lining revealed itself - such pure water sources had been unimaginable in the old world.

Had an experienced hunter witnessed this scene, they'd have warned the youth he was courting death. Not from poisoned water, but because pristine streams became natural watering holes for dangerous creatures - especially near hazardous zones.

Hsssss!

The xenomorph's warning hiss came too late. Unlike its usual proactive attacks, the creature remained defensive, signaling unprecedented danger.

"What now?" Chu Xun grabbed his combat blade, scanning the surroundings. Through the trees emerged massive, muscular forms closing in...

While zombies dominated these woods, other predators lurked - creatures far more dangerous than shambling corpses. Some even preyed on the undead, though human flesh made for preferable fare.

The approaching creatures represented one of the wilderness' most common yet feared predators - mutant hounds.

Canines proved exceptionally susceptible to viral mutation. Post-cataclysm, most dogs either became undead horrors or evolved into larger, more aggressive variants. Their terrifying reproductive rates - females birthing 2-5 pups 1-3 times annually - combined with former prevalence as pets, made them ubiquitous and dreaded pack hunters.

"Damn...what do these mutts eat?!" Chu Xun cursed through gritted teeth. The approaching Chinese rural dogs ("tu gou" or native mutts) resembled nightmarish parodies of their former selves. Shoulder heights exceeding five feet, muscular frames reminiscent of canine Schwarzeneggers, dagger-like metallic fangs glinting dangerously - these were predators that knew human flesh.

Saliva dripped from snarling maws as the pack formed a crescent formation, advancing with wolf-like tactics rather than canine impulsiveness.

"Time for desperate measures..." Chu Xun's grip tightened on his blade. Alone, he'd stand no chance against this dozen-strong pack. But with the xenomorph...

Before strategies could form, the largest hound - a two-meter-tall alpha - lunged with feral roar.

HSSSSS!

The xenomorph's answering shriek pierced air as its powerful hind legs launched it forward like ebony lightning.

Mutant hound vs Xenomorph - the bloodbath began.