My main focus was on cultivating those savages, and naturally, my own cultivation never stopped.
I could feel all my attributes slowly strengthening, my speed increasing, and my strength growing.
But I knew it was far from enough!
In my current state, if it were an unprecedented battle, or a fight using only cold weapons, I would have enough confidence to win.
However, if they decided to use firearms, I would be in grave danger!
Moreover, they were numerous, which would be extremely disadvantageous for me.
I returned to the ship once again with Luo Yaqin, bringing over twenty savages with us.
We salvaged almost everything that could be dismantled from the ship, including the beds, even iron barrels, all of which were precious resources at the moment!
I had the savages take them back in batches to be used for crafting bows and arrows, as well as weapons.
Food was also brought back, and it was all stored in the camp.
Of course, we couldn't enjoy these things alone. We called the savages over, and Luo Yaqin personally cooked for them.
This made the savages overwhelmed with gratitude; they prostrated themselves on the ground, raising their hands above their heads to receive the food.
They probably hadn't eaten with many seasonings, nor had they tasted rice or flour.
Upon eating, their faces lit up with excitement.
I took some seeds and cleared a patch of wasteland, hoping to plant some wheat and sweet potatoes.
Food was essential; without sufficient food, we couldn't continue fighting!
After doing all this, my attention turned back to the ship.
I also took all the firearms from the ship. I didn't have much time to teach the savages how to use them, so I could only place my hopes on the mercenaries I had captured.
The cells were specially made. As soon as I entered, the bound mercenaries all stood up.
Several days had passed, and the food and water they received were very limited.
This had taken a toll on them, and they had become quite gaunt.
Furthermore, the cells reeked of excrement and urine, making the air unbearable.
"Friend, you told us to stop attacking before, and we did as you said. Now, what is the meaning of imprisoning us?" one of the mercenaries asked.
"There's a lot going on," I said with a smile. "I've come this time to discuss some matters with you..."
Hearing this, the mercenaries grew impatient.
"This place is not fit for humans to live in. Even if we are captives, you shouldn't treat us like this!"
"That's right. We surrendered our weapons hoping for peaceful coexistence. Your actions have chilled us to the bone!"
"Although I don't know where this place is, we are mercenaries. We can provide you with ample combat support!"
Hearing these words, my gaze swept over their faces. "First, let me introduce you to your surroundings. I suspect no one told you when you arrived..."
I then spent nearly an hour explaining the deserted island to them.
This place was almost forgotten by the world; the rules and regulations outside did not apply here.
Here, there was only one rule.
That was to survive!
After listening to my account, the mercenaries' faces were filled with shock.
They could never have imagined that such a place still existed in the world, a blind spot untouched by civilized society.
However, I paid no mind to their emotions.
"Now I need some people to help me," I said. "I might face more enemies, even more mercenaries and larger weapons..."
"So, I'm here to ask for your opinion," I continued. "If you're willing to work with me properly, I can grant you your freedom, and you will primarily help me handle some matters!"
"But doing so, you might encounter many dangers. I hope I can trust you!"
"Of course, you can also choose not to join me. That's fine too. I can arrange for you to continue staying here, and I will ensure you live well." My gaze swept over everyone present.
After being strengthened by the Power of the Shepherd God, I could now clearly observe the micro-expressions of each person.
From their expressions, I could roughly deduce what they were thinking.
Some of them harbored resentment towards me, while a portion of them looked confused.
And some faces were filled with anticipation.
At this moment, one person stood up. "I am willing to work with you!"
I looked at a man with a square face and a full beard, and a faint smile appeared on my face.
This fellow was one of those who had shown the most anticipation.