Inner Herbal Forest finally shimmered open on the third day evening, a crowd had already gathered outside the glowing fissure. Disciples, elders, and servants all stood in eager anticipation, murmuring with restless curiosity.
The scent of herbs filled the air, mixed with the faint copper tang of spiritual energy. One by one, the surviving disciples emerged from the luminous mist — some limping, others supported by friends, their robes torn, their expressions weary yet triumphant.
Each carried bags stuffed with rare herbs and beast cores, proudly showing their trophies to the watching elders.
"That's Lee Sheng from Elder Yuan's branch! He brought a Spirit Horn Root!"
"And Wei Ling from Elder Hong's group — a full basket of Blood Petal Orchids!"
"Good heavens… so many returned early this time!"
The elders nodded approvingly, taking mental notes, whispering among themselves about rankings, future prospects, and political benefits.
