Chapter 29 - Best Laid Plans

A little over 10 minutes after Dong Zǐmò parted ways with them, Xin Jin and his group finally came across a plot of ground that was reasonably wide enough, and level enough, to set up a decent camp.

Luckily for everyone, there was no need to do things the old fashioned way.

With a simple thought and a tiny amount of Spirit Energy, Lu Qiáng brought forth everything the group needed for a good night's rest from within his low grade storage ring.

In just a moment, 4 fully assembled tents along with bedding, lighting, as well as a fully functional outdoor kitchen that included a very well made dining table with chairs were all in place.

Xin Jin was secretly impressed as he watched everyone go about their business like it was totally natural. And it was. At least for this world where, despite a lack of advanced technology, tools that could be considered fairly common here would leave Earth's greatest minds utterly baffled.

As twilight began to decend upon the world, Xin Jin decided to pass his time by consolidating his 2nd level Spirit Master cultivation while he waited patiently for Luo Mei, Gu Xian'er and Huáng Yù Míng to prepare dinner.

Lu Qiáng occupied himself with sharpening his 2 meter long two-handed greatsword, while the brothers, or more accurately twins, Wú An and Wú Gāng patrolled the boundary of the camp with their round buckler shields and short spears along with Li Jiāng who carried a large Warhammer that easily weighed more than his body.

Nearly an hour later, with the sun finally set and numerous light crystal lanterns illuminating the camp, dinner was finally served.

As Xin Jin opened his Golden eyes, he couldn't help but smile in satisfaction at his stable Spirit Energy. He honestly couldn't deny the fact that the rush of euphoria he experienced every time his power increased was addictive. It now made perfect sense why those novel MC's always pushed forward as quickly as possible.

However, Xin Jin didn't plan on becoming some sealed away hermit big-shot that only pursued the next highest realm.

What was the point in living that way? Shouldn't the goal of gaining power and wealth be to enjoy it to the fullest extent with those you care about?

He thought so.

After making his way to his seat at the head of the table, Xin Jin noticed that there was only 5 people present, including himself.

"Where are the others, are they not eating?" He asked curiously whilst looking at Lu Qiáng

"Ah, about that, the others will have their meal later once I and Yù Míng relieve them of patrol duty." Lu Qiáng said respectfully

"I see." Xin Jin replied with an understanding nod.

The meal then fell into an awkward silence as each person focused on the food in front of them.

After a few minutes of this passed, Gu Xian'er seemed to decide that she had had enough of the quiet atmosphere.

Setting her chopsticks aside, she asked with a voice full of curiosity,"Have either of you ever been inside an Inheritance Tomb before?"

Both Lu Qiáng and Huáng Yù Míng stopped eating mid bite.

After exchanging glances, they both shook their heads while Huáng Yù Míng spoke candidly,"No, Miss Gu, we haven't. However, with our levels and experience, as well as the stories of past Inheritance Tombs, I believe we shouldn't have any major issues during our time within."

"You mean those tales of deadly traps, powerful monsters, etc?" Gu Xian'er asked with a hint of excitement.

"Yes and No." Stated Lu Qiáng with a tone that indicated his confidence,"Not only must we be careful of the traps and monsters, but also the environment itself."

"Even the environment?" Xin Jin asked with a slightly raised brow.

"Indeed, Master Xin. In fact, I would say that the likelihood of each floors natural state may be just as dangerous, if not more so, than the beasts or any traps we may encounter." informed Lu Qiáng seriously.

"Then how do you suggest we handle ourselves while inside the Tomb?" Luo Mei asked curiously, despite feeling reasonably certain that the chance of injury within their group was slim, albeit not zero.

"Well, about that..." Lu Qiáng said with a thoughtful look,"I can say with some confidence that as a group, unless everyone is separated somehow, we should be fairly balanced in our capabilities. Myself and Li Jiāng both wield heavy weapons that, while slower, can deal considerable damage.

"Wú An and Wú Gāng both use a small shield and short spears which are excellent at keeping enemies at bay, meanwhile, Ms. Gu Xian'er is a formations expert which can be used both offensively and defensively, so any short-to-mid range attacks should be easily dealt with.

"As for Lady Luo Mei and Huáng Yù Míng, one is a wind user, while the other is an assassination expert who specializes in using Silver Throwing Needles and poisons allowing for decent mid-to-long range attack capability. As for yourself, Master Xin, your sword and movement techniques make you perfect for dealing with any unforseen anomalies."

Xin Jin nodded with his right index finger on his chin as he contemplated everything Lu Qiáng had said, feeling that it was a very professional analysis of their situation.

"Excellent." He said with a smile,"Then we'll act according to your words."

The group of 5 continued to discuss some other possibilities as well as a few contingency plans in case things didn't go according to the original plan.

After their dinner and planning session was over, Xin Jin, Luo Mei and Gu Xian'er retired to the largest tent that had the most comfortable accommodations while Lu Qiáng and Huáng Yù Míng took over the patrol duty so that the other three could eat their fill.

It was incredibly early in the morning, roughly after 4:30 a.m.; but not quite 5, when everyone in the region of the Inheritance Tomb began to stir from the sweet embrace of either their dreams or a peaceful state of meditation as they cultivated.

*Yawn*

"Hehe.."

As Xin Jin yawned while rubbing his eyes, the clear and melodious sound of Luo Mei and Gu Xian'er giggling at his expense could clearly be heard within the tent.

"What's so funny?" he asked lazily

"Nothing. It's just that you wouldn't still be so tired if you had just cultivated like we had instead of sleeping." Luo Mei informed with a wistful expression, as if she was educating a young child.

"I know, but sleep is one of life's great pleasures. How could I just give up on it?" He replied in a half serious, half joking tone.

Just as Gu Xian'er was about to say something, the voice of Lu Qiáng came from outside,"Master Xin, It's almost time."

Xin Jin became more serious at this moment before asking the most important question to the two ladies at his side,"Shall we?"