As for the spoils, Yu Zimo would keep them all for the time being. They would be distributed after they returned.
"The sand bandits aren't slow. Judging by their appearance, not all of them have Sand-Calming Pearls on them." Lu Xiaotian sounded puzzled.
"Brother Lu may not know this, but these sand bandits have been active here year-round. Every so often, they take a spiritual herb called sandthorn grass, which can likewise shield them from the effects of the sandstorms. Unfortunately, sandthorn grass only grows in the depths of the Sand Region. It is rarely seen on the outskirts, and its distribution is limited. That is also why the sand bandits can never be completely eradicated. A newcomer would find it difficult to pose a fatal threat to sand bandits who have the advantage of local terrain. Even an Integrated Body Great Talent would suffer a severe reduction in spiritual sense upon entering this place." Yu Zimo explained patiently.
"Something's wrong!" Lu Xiaotian's expression suddenly changed.
"What is it?" Yu Zimo asked, baffled.
"There's something strange about the sand bandits. Fall back!" Lu Xiaotian said in a deep voice.
"Really? How come we didn't notice anything?" Guo Jingyu's face clearly showed some disbelief. But the moment her voice fell, two squads that had charged farther out began fleeing back in terror.
Rustle, rustle—the ground resounded with a dense succession of noises.
"We've fallen into a trap! Retreat!" A middle-aged man at the front clutched his wounded left arm and cried out as he hastily retreated.
"Damn it! A swarm of venomous sand ants has blocked our retreat!" Another burst of panicked cries rose from the rear.
"I never expected that after only a few decades without clearing out Wild Goose Sand Ridge, the sand bandits here would grow to such