Daoist Wan Ming stood atop a temple. Beneath the clear, lofty sky stretched a fertile land of abundant waters, brimming with life. A gentle warm breeze blew over them, making one feel immensely at ease.
He said, "A fine place. From now on, this can become the ground on which we establish ourselves."
Qi Yu said, "We are still short of manpower."
Daoist Wan Ming nodded. "If all goes smoothly this time, with this as our foothold, we should be able to find more fellow Daoists who share our aspirations."
For some reason, Qi Yu suddenly fell silent.
Daoist Wan Ming said, "What is it? Thinking of that friend of yours again? He is ultimately different from us."
Qi Yu shook his head. "No. I was thinking of the enemies we must face. Compared to them, our strength is still far too weak."
Daoist Wan Ming said, "Strength and weakness are not set in stone. They can be reversed. So long as we carry out our plans step by step, we will eventually succeed. Occupying this place is our first step."
His words were firm and composed, carrying a power that naturally inspired faith. Qi Yu could not help but nod.
At that moment, a cultivator flew in from the distant sky. After landing, he cupped his hands toward Daoist Wan Ming and said, "Fellow Daoist Wan Ming, we have repeatedly confirmed it with the soul-extraction technique. That news is true. And it seems the Frost Continent people received the news as well. When I returned, I saw them heading toward the northern mountain range."
Qi Yu turned and said, "Fellow Daoist Wan Ming, shall I call everyone back?"
Wan Ming nodded. "Go."
Qi Yu immediately fled through the air. About half a summer hour later, more than ten cultivators