Pearl stood at the edge of the first island with many other beasts, all of whom were now on their way back to the Blackland City. Ray had been with him until he arrived at this island before leaving him alone.
Everyone who failed the trial was led back to this one island, which then took them all back to the starting location, ready to take in the next batch of trial takers.
It had taken Pearl less than half a day to return, which he hadn't expected. Considering how long it had taken them to reach the center, he was certain it would take a few days, but thankfully it didn't.
The beasts on the island were all downtrodden and regretful, except for a few who seemed to have reached far enough to feel disappointed. For many, this was their last trial, either because they had gone through all four before or because they simply gave up. But many would surely leave for the other claws as soon as they returned and try once again.
