Daqin arrests alchemists, what does it matter to me as a qi refiner?

“These memories… are too real.” Yang Ling said to the Evil Cloud Saint after an exploration. “I can feel the joys and sorrows of the former master, as well as his determination and resolve when facing difficulties.”

Saint Evil Cloud nodded: "Yes, the memory of a magic stone is indeed that magical. It can not only record the experiences of its former owner, but also allow the successor to feel the emotions and power within it. This is one of the reasons why magic stones are so precious."

Yang Ling took a deep breath and decided to continue exploring. He knew that these memories must contain even more secrets and powers, waiting for him to discover them.

However, as the exploration deepened, Yang Ling began to feel an unprecedented pressure. These memories were like heavy burdens, making it hard for him to breathe. Each step deeper brought him an indescribable pain.

"Yang Ling, what's wrong?" The Evil Cloud Saint noticed Yang Ling's unusual behavior and asked with concern, "Is it because these memories have become too much of a burden for you?"

Yang Ling forced a smile: "It's alright, I can manage. It's just that these memories... are too heavy."

The Evil Cloud Saint patted Yang Ling on the shoulder: "Remember, you are not fighting alone. I will always be by your side, supporting you and helping you."

Yang Ling nodded gratefully, then rallied his spirits and continued his exploration. He knew he couldn't let down the expectations of the Evil Cloud Saint, nor could he betray the entrustment of the Demon Stone's former owner.

Just as Yang Ling was about to give up, he suddenly felt a powerful call. This call seemed to come from the depths of his soul, and he couldn't resist it. He opened his eyes and looked at the Evil Cloud Saint: "I feel a summons, as if something is waiting for me."

A hint of surprise flashed in the eyes of the Evil Cloud Saint: "Is this... the Demon Stone guiding you? Could it be that there are deeper secrets hidden within the Demon Stone, waiting for you to uncover them?"

Yang Ling nodded in response, "I'm certain of that. The call was exceptionally strong, and I couldn't resist it." He took a deep breath and continued, "It seems we need to explore further."

Saint Evil Cloud stared at Yang Ling, a thoughtful light flashing in his deep eyes: "Since the magic stone is summoning you, there must be a deeper meaning. However, the journey ahead may be even more dangerous, so you must be mentally prepared."

Yang Ling nodded firmly: "I understand. But no matter how many difficulties and obstacles lie ahead, I must seek the truth, without fear or trepidation."

The two then immersed themselves once again in the memories of the magic stone. This time, Yang Ling felt his consciousness being drawn by a powerful force, traversing through layers of mist, and arriving at a mysterious and unpredictable space.

Here, the stars twinkled and the Milky Way stretched like a ribbon, making one feel as if they were in the boundless universe. Yang Ling looked around and felt a strange sense of familiarity welling up inside him.

"Where is this?" Yang Ling asked in confusion.

Saint Evil Cloud frowned slightly and said in a deep voice, "If I'm not mistaken, this should be the spiritual domain left behind by the previous owner of the Demon Stone. He may have wanted to pass on some important information to his descendants through this method."

Yang Ling's heart skipped a beat: "Important information? What could it be?"

Just then, a majestic and profound voice suddenly rang out in the space: "Welcome to my spiritual realm, successor."

Yang Ling and the Evil Cloud Saint were both taken aback, but after looking around, they did not find any figure.

"Who are you?" Yang Ling asked loudly.

"I am the former owner of the magic stone," the voice said slowly. "I left this spiritual imprint only to wait for a worthy successor. Now it seems that you are the one I have been looking for."

A surge of indescribable excitement welled up in Yang Ling's heart: "Senior, what teachings do you have for me?"

“Of course,” the voice said. “I left all my knowledge in the magic stone, including cultivation insights, martial arts manuals, and my unique understanding of the universe. As long as you can grasp its essence, you will benefit greatly.”

A resolute glint flashed in Yang Ling's eyes: "Please rest assured, senior, I will definitely strive to comprehend your legacy."

The Evil Cloud Saint was also filled with emotion: "I never expected that such a precious inheritance was hidden in the magic stone. Yang Ling, you are truly the one destined by heaven."

Yang Ling smiled modestly: "This is all thanks to the kindness of my seniors. Without the legacy left by my seniors, I would not be where I am today."

The voice rang out again: "Very good. I hope you will cherish this legacy and carry it forward. Now, I will open the gate of inheritance within the magic stone. Are you ready?"

Yang Ling and the Evil Cloud Saint exchanged a glance and replied in unison, "We are ready."

Suddenly, a dazzling light flashed in the space, gradually coalescing into a gigantic portal. The portal slowly opened, revealing the brilliant starlight and the vast universe within.

Yang Ling took a deep breath and stepped towards the Gate of Inheritance. He knew that he was about to embark on a brand new journey to explore the deeper mysteries and power within the magic stone.

On the other side of the Gate of Inheritance, what challenges and opportunities await him? Yang Ling was filled with anticipation and confidence. He believed that with the companionship and guidance of the Evil Cloud Saint, he would surely forge his own path to becoming a powerful figure.

As Yang Ling passed through the dazzling gate of inheritance, he felt an unprecedented power surging within him. Every cell seemed to be awakened, filled with boundless vitality.

However, at that moment, the voice of the Evil Cloud Saint rang in his ears, carrying a hint of solemnity and warning: "Yang Ling, although you have obtained the inheritance of your former master, remember not to rely too much on the magic stone."

Yang Ling turned to look at the Evil Cloud Saint with some confusion: "Senior, what do you mean by this?"

Saint Evil Cloud took a deep breath and said in a deep voice, "Although the magic stone is powerful, it is ultimately an external object. Over-reliance on it may cause you to lose yourself, or even be devoured by its power."

Yang Ling was startled, not expecting the Evil Cloud Saint to give him such a warning. He quickly asked, "Then how can I avoid this situation?"

The Evil Cloud Saint slowly said, "You must remember that power is merely a means, not an end. The path of cultivation lies in cultivating both inner and outer strength, emphasizing both mindset and power. Only in this way can you truly control your power, rather than be controlled by it."

Yang Ling nodded thoughtfully, "I understand. I will keep your teachings in mind and will not let myself get lost in the pursuit of power." Saint Xie Yun smiled with satisfaction, "Very good. Remember, no matter when or where, you must maintain a clear mind and firm belief. Only in this way can you go further on the path of cultivation."

In the days that followed, Yang Ling cultivated even more diligently. He not only focused on increasing his strength but also paid even more attention to tempering his character. He often sat alone in meditation, contemplating the true meaning of cultivation and the significance of life.

The Sage of Evil Clouds also stayed by Yang Ling's side, providing him with meticulous guidance and assistance. Whenever Yang Ling encountered confusion or difficulties, the Sage of Evil Clouds would patiently answer his questions and guide him onto the right path.

As time went by, Yang Ling's strength continued to improve, and his temperament became more resolute and mature. He gradually began to understand the true meaning of cultivation and realized even more how important the Evil Cloud Saint's admonition had been.

On this day, Yang Ling once again came before the Evil Cloud Saint to report on his cultivation progress. He respectfully said, "Senior, I have been working hard to cultivate during this time, always keeping your teachings in mind. Now, I have basically mastered the inheritance left by my former master, and I also feel that my temperament has greatly improved."

Saint Xieyun nodded in satisfaction: "Very good. I can feel your progress and growth. However, you must remember that cultivation is endless. Although you have already achieved considerable success, there are still many areas where you need to work hard and improve."

Yang Ling lowered his head humbly: "Yes, senior. I know I still have many shortcomings and need to continue to cultivate and learn."

Saint Xieyun patted Yang Ling on the shoulder: "Remember, always maintain a humble heart, no matter when or where. Only in this way can you go further and more steadily on the path of cultivation."

Yang Ling bowed deeply: "Thank you for your teachings and guidance, senior. I will continue to cultivate diligently, constantly improve my strength and character, and make full preparations for future challenges."

Yang Ling remained immersed in his cultivation as always, constantly exploring the potential between the magic stone and himself. However, on this day, as he was concentrating on circulating his cultivation technique, he suddenly felt a wave of weakness wash over him.

His body trembled involuntarily, as if some mysterious force was draining away his inner strength. Yang Ling was startled and hurriedly stopped his practice to regulate his breathing, but the feeling of weakness lingered, impossible to shake off.

"What's going on?" Yang Ling wondered. He had never encountered such a situation before. His strength had always been abundant, so why did he suddenly feel so weak today?

He tried to circulate his energy again, but as soon as he gathered a little power, he felt a wave of weakness wash over him, as if his body had been hollowed out.

Yang Ling was startled and dared not try again. He knew there might be something wrong with his body.

Just then, the Evil Cloud Saint walked in. Seeing Yang Ling's pale face and profuse sweating, he immediately frowned: "Yang Ling, what's wrong? Why do you look so pale?"

Yang Ling gave a wry smile: "Senior, I don't know what happened either. I suddenly felt a wave of weakness while cultivating just now, and now I feel weak all over and can't even stand up straight."

A hint of doubt flashed in the eyes of the Evil Cloud Saint: "This doesn't seem like ordinary weakness. Let me see your condition."

As he spoke, he placed his palm on Yang Ling's pulse. However, after only a moment, his expression turned serious: "Yang Ling, your condition is not good. Your pulse is weak and erratic, as if a mysterious force is interfering with your internal body."

Yang Ling's heart sank: "Could it be a problem with the magic stone?"

Saint Evil Cloud nodded: "Very likely. You've been cultivating with the power of the magic stone, and perhaps that's why you were affected by some unknown influence."

Yang Ling was immediately gripped by fear. He hadn't expected the magic stone he had always trusted would bring him such trouble. He hurriedly asked, "Senior, what should I do? Is there any way to solve this problem?"

After pondering for a moment, the Evil Cloud Saint said, "First, you need to stop using magic stones for cultivation. Then, I will refine some pills for you to regulate your body. However, this is only a temporary solution. If you want to completely solve this problem, you need to find the root cause."

Yang Ling's heart tightened: "Found the root cause? Does that mean there's something wrong with the magic stone itself?"

Saint Evil Cloud shook his head: "It's not certain yet. However, I will examine the magic stone in detail to see if I can find any clues."

A warm feeling welled up in Yang Ling's heart. He knew that the Evil Cloud Saint had always cared for and helped him. Now that he was in trouble, the Saint had stepped forward without hesitation. This kindness deeply moved Yang Ling.

In the days that followed, Yang Ling stopped cultivating as instructed by the Evil Cloud Saint and took the pills he had concocted. Gradually, his body began to regain some strength and energy.

Meanwhile, the Evil Cloud Saint was engrossed in studying the Demon Stone. He would sometimes furrow his brow in thought, sometimes peruse ancient texts, and sometimes discuss and analyze with Yang Ling… Gradually, he seemed to discover some unknown secrets. These secrets were not only related to the Demon Stone, but also closely connected to the history and legends of the entire cultivation world.

As the Evil Cloud Saint delved deeper into his research on the magic stone, he discovered some even more astonishing facts. These facts not only explained why the magic stone possessed such immense power, but also revealed the truth behind its sealing.

One day, when Yang Ling's body had basically recovered, the two sat in the quiet room again, facing the magic stone full of mysterious power.

"Yang Ling, do you know why the Demon Stone is called a 'Demon' Stone?" The Evil Cloud Saint spoke slowly, his eyes revealing awe for knowledge.

Yang Ling shook his head: "This junior does not know. Is there some special meaning behind it?"

Saint Evil Cloud nodded: "The reason why the Demon Stone is called a 'Demon' Stone is because it contains an extreme and powerful force. This force is powerful enough to change everything, but it is also full of unpredictable dangers. This force is demonic nature."

Yang Ling's heart skipped a beat: "Demonic nature? What does that mean?"

"Demonic energy is a mysterious and dangerous power. It is different from the spiritual energy or primordial energy we usually talk about; it is more primitive and more direct. The demonic energy in the demon stone was extracted by its former owner from various extreme environments over countless years. This power is incredibly strong, but it is also full of violence and uncertainty," explained the Evil Cloud Saint.

Yang Ling listened intently: "Then why did the previous owner seal this power in the magic stone?"

The Evil Cloud Saint sighed, "Because even a powerful figure like the former master couldn't fully control this demonic nature. He discovered that as he used it more and more, his character gradually changed. His once unwavering beliefs began to waver, and his once clear goals began to blur. He realized that if this continued, he might be devoured by the demonic nature and become a monster that only knew destruction." (End of Chapter)