Not until the moon's path dipped westward, heralding the end of the night, did the bizarre creatures hiding among the dunes outside the camp gradually retreat.
As the first ray of dawn pierced through the gaps between the dunes, those strange eyes slowly closed, then vanished into the darkness beyond the dunes as if they had never existed. As the body of night receded, the desert once more displayed its daytime tranquility and warmth.
The expedition members gradually awoke beneath the morning light. They stretched, then began bustling about, preparing for the first day of exploration.
Yet they had no idea of the bizarre phenomena that had occurred around them while they slept.
After a quick breakfast, the members split into several groups and set off in their planned directions.
As one of the expedition's sponsors, Tierra had not needed to participate in the field exploration, but—
"Professor Cadwell." While everyone was eating breakfast, Tierra suddenly stopped Lennon Cadwell, an ecology professor from the University of Sydney.
"Would it be convenient for me to enter the George Gill Range with your team today?" Tierra asked.
"I'm very interested in the unique ecosystem of this desert," Tierra added.
"Ah, well... because the oasis is located relatively close to the center of the George Gill Range, and the gorge is too narrow for our off-road vehicles to enter, so..." Lennon Cadwell looked at Tierra. After hesitating for a moment, he said, "Just getting there may take us anywhere from half a day to a full day. We may also remain at the oasis for around two days. The round trip will take four to five days in total."
"That's fine. I can take care of myself," Tierra said flatly.
"What I mean is, Mr. Lockhart..." Lennon Cadwell said hesitantly. "What I mean