Before they knew it, dawn had broken.
Old Gong had vanished without making a sound.
The disciples of Divine Firmament Mountain woke one after another, took out their dry rations, and shared them.
Bai Xingtai brought food to Si Yan and Bai Xian.
Bai Lushu came over to Luo Bin and Luo Xianshen with coarse flatbread, dried meat, and sun-dried polygonatum.
Luo Bin snapped out of his daze, but the chill in his body had not entirely faded.
"Ordinary polygonatum is merely a medicinal herb. Only when it's over a hundred years old can it be called an immortal's sustenance. Mr. Luo, Four-Rules Real Person, these pieces are at least three to five hundred years old. You only need a little at a time to keep your energy up and your blood flowing." Bai Lushu's expression held a faint reverence, along with a trace of gratitude.
Even Divine Firmament Mountain could not casually spare much of such medicinal herbs.
Luo Xianshen accepted the rations. "Thank you."
"You're too kind." Bai Lushu lightly cupped his hands.
It was clear that most of Divine Firmament Mountain's disciples remained uncertain about joining Four-Rules Mountain. Some were even frightened and uneasy, feeling like stray dogs that had lost their homes.
But there were still some who felt differently, such as Bai Lushu and Bai Xingtai.
"Go on ahead, Elder Lushu," Luo Bin said hoarsely.
"Is... something wrong?" Bai Lushu looked at Luo Bin with hesitation in his eyes, then glanced at the temple.
"It has nothing to do with Abbey Master Qichen. It concerns me and my master," Luo Bin explained, briefly closing his eyes and pressing his temples.
Luo Xianshen gestured for him to go.
Only then did Bai Lushu give a slight nod. Seemingly much reassured, he turned and walked away.
Luo