Day after day passed...
The sea turtles fought mutated monsters around the island every day, growing stronger through battle after battle.
Several large turtles had been injured while hunting and were recuperating on the beach. When they saw Zhang Ming arrive, they let out an "Awoo" in greeting.
Today, they had hauled in another giant octopus!
"Oh, a giant Pacific octopus! These are pretty rare... Did you catch it together? Nice work." With another free meal on offer, Zhang Ming was in a good mood.
Many of the turtles crawled over, opening their mouths as they clamored for praise.
Only Old White Turtle lay off to one side alone, gazing toward the distant coastline with a melancholy expression.
Only after becoming truly independent could one understand how difficult survival was.
More and more powerful sea beasts were approaching these waters, but Zhang Ming still chose not to help during this time.
Old White Turtle also knew that they could not ask for help unless they truly had no other choice.
They had to grow stronger through their own efforts.
Old White Turtle's kindly gaze settled on each turtle on the beach.
Meanwhile, Zhang Ming was helping them butcher this strange sea beast, which might have been a squid or an octopus.
The battle plan Old Zhang had devised for them echoed in Old White Turtle's mind...
"First, when you encounter a powerful enemy, observe its abilities from a distance. Only by knowing both yourself and your enemy can you avoid defeat."
"Second, once you've confirmed that its abilities can't kill you in a single blow, fight a slow battle of attrition! Keep wearing down its stamina! The moment your life is in danger, turn into stone!"
"Third, once its stamina is exhausted, swarm it and kill it."
This was a