Early the next morning, the cultivators heading out to sea to gather Spirit Pearls assembled in the center of the camp.
Everyone wore a different expression. Some sat cross-legged, not saying a word. Others opened their storage pouches, checking their equipment over and over to make sure nothing was missing.
Still others spoke in hushed tones, discussing how they might make it back in one piece...
'Four at the Qi Refining Ninth Layer and twelve at the Qi Refining Eighth Layer. This lineup is already quite formidable, but it seems everyone is still a little anxious.'
Zhao Lin thought to himself as he fiddled with the silver dagger in his hand.
Around 7 AM, Gan Xingquan strode into the camp in a flurry, followed by two guards, each holding a tray.
"Is everyone here?"
"We're all here."
Everyone rose to their feet, gathering their personal belongings to prepare for departure.
"Not so fast. Sit back down."
