The moment these words were spoken, an elder immediately echoed:
"Indeed!
"The expeditionary army is the foundation of our clan. If its losses are too great, not only will the conquest be greatly delayed, it may even shake the very foundations of our clan's rule.
"With three elders holding the rear and stabilizing the situation, the forces at the front can campaign without worry."
Just then, the Grand Elder seated at the head of the hall had a sharp glint flash through his eyes, as though he had recalled something of utmost importance.
He lightly tapped the armrest of his jade seat, drawing everyone's attention, his voice carrying a note of encouragement:
"Oh, right!
"There is one more matter that must be made clear here.
"Any elder who has rendered outstanding contributions in battle, received the clan chief's reward, and obtained a law Spiritual Item may apply to the Council of Clan Elders for closed-door meditation if they are confident in breaking through to a higher realm!"
His gaze swept over several of the strongest elders present, whose military achievements were illustrious, as he continued:
"If fortune favors us, perhaps while the clan chief is in closed-door meditation, our clan may produce another Spirit Transformation Venerable!
"When that time comes, even if the clan chief has yet to emerge from seclusion, our Black Spirit Tiger Shark Clan will be able to rely on the might of two Venerables to rule over the entire True Dragon Sea in an extremely short time!"
He pointed toward the depths of the palace.
"The place for closed-door meditation will be established here.
"This Blackwater Mystic Palace is vast enough, with many side halls, and it is closest to the clan chief's place of closed-door meditation. Its safety is fully guaranteed.
"To cultivate here in