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

Xu Fu shook his head: "Grand Preceptor, you flatter me. It is my duty to do my part for the country and its people."

Yang Ling patted Xu Fu on the shoulder: "Good brother, let's go back and report together."

The two shouldered their packs and left the valley, knowing that the mythical beast Lu Mi would forever remain in their hearts. Lu Mi's sacrifice further strengthened their belief and determination to fight for their country and its people.

On their way back, Yang Ling and Xu Fu walked in silence. Although neither of them spoke, they both understood what the other was thinking. They both knew that this experience had been a tremendous test and trial for them, making them more mature and resilient.

Finally back in the city, Yang Ling immediately handed over Lu Mi's flesh and blood to the alchemist for refining. He knew that the success or failure of this alchemy was related to the future of the country and the fate of the people, so he dared not be the slightest bit negligent or careless.

Xu Fu returned to his post to continue fulfilling his duties and mission. He knew that although the mythical beast Lu Mi was no longer there, its spirit and power would forever inspire them to move forward.

A few days later, the alchemist brought good news: the elixir had been successfully refined! Yang Ling was overjoyed upon hearing this news. He immediately presented the elixir to the king and gave a detailed account of the entire process and experience. The king was greatly impressed and generously rewarded Yang Ling, Xu Fu, and their companions…

The alchemist handed Yang Ling an exquisite jade bottle containing the elixir he had painstakingly refined. The elixir emitted a faint fragrance that was refreshing and invigorating.

"Imperial Preceptor, I have not failed you. The elixir is complete, and its effects will surely be as you wish." The alchemist looked exhausted, but his eyes gleamed with excitement and pride.

Yang Ling took the jade bottle, feeling the vitality and energy within it, and an indescribable joy welled up in his heart. He knew that this elixir was not only the result of his and Xu Fu's efforts, but also the crystallization of the selfless dedication of the immortal beast Lu Mi.

"Thank you for your hard work, alchemist. I will report everything to the King truthfully," Yang Ling said solemnly.

The alchemist shook his head slightly: "Grand Preceptor, you flatter us. It is an honor for us alchemists to serve the country. However... although this elixir is complete, the power it contains is extremely strong, so we must be cautious when using it."

Yang Ling nodded to indicate that he understood: "I will use it carefully. By the way, what exactly are the effects of this elixir?"

The alchemist pondered for a moment and said, "This pill can enhance cultivation, prolong life, and may even help people break through cultivation bottlenecks. However, the specific effects still need to be experienced by the user."

Upon hearing this, Yang Ling's heart stirred. He thought of someone—Xu Fu. Although Xu Fu possessed profound cultivation, he had never been able to break through his bottleneck and reach a higher realm. This elixir might be able to lend him a helping hand.

Therefore, Yang Ling decided to go to Xu Fu and give him the elixir. He believed that Xu Fu would be grateful for his generous gift.

Upon arriving at Xu Fu's residence, Yang Ling handed him the elixir and explained his purpose. Xu Fu was greatly surprised and repeatedly waved his hands in refusal, saying, "Grand Preceptor, this is unacceptable. The elixir is so precious; how can I accept it?"

Yang Ling smiled and said, "Xu Fu, we are brothers, why be so formal? Although this elixir is precious, in my heart, your friendship is more important. I hope you can take this elixir, break through your bottleneck, and reach a higher realm."

Xu Fu was deeply moved; he knew Yang Ling was truly sincere towards him. However, he still hesitated: "Grand Preceptor, this elixir is so miraculous; what if something goes wrong after I take it…?"

Yang Ling interrupted him, "Xu Fu, don't worry. This elixir was carefully crafted by an alchemist, there won't be any problems. And I will stay here to watch over you and make sure you are safe and sound."

Looking into Yang Ling's determined eyes, Xu Fu knew that further refusal would be futile. So, he nodded solemnly: "Alright! Then I will try the effects of this elixir."

As he spoke, he took the jade bottle, opened the cap, and a refreshing fragrance wafted out. He took a deep breath, poured the elixir into his mouth, and then closed his eyes to wait quietly.

Yang Ling stared nervously at Xu Fu, fearing something might go wrong. He knew that while the elixir was miraculous, it wasn't a panacea. If something went wrong after Xu Fu took it, he wouldn't be able to explain it to himself and Xu Fu.

Time passed slowly, and Xu Fu's face began to flush, his body radiating a faint glow. Yang Ling knew this meant the elixir was beginning to work, and he silently prayed: It must succeed! It must succeed!

Suddenly, Xu Fu opened his eyes wide, a glint of light flashing within them. He stood up, stretched his limbs, and then burst into laughter: "Great! I succeeded! I've finally broken through the bottleneck!"

Upon seeing this, Yang Ling was overjoyed and rushed forward to hug Xu Fu tightly: "That's wonderful! Xu Fu! You've finally succeeded!" The two embraced and wept, shedding tears of joy for this moment of success and their hard work...

Xu Fu felt the surging power within him, his heart filled with immense excitement. He knew that all of this was a gift from Yang Ling. Without Yang Ling's generous gift of pills, he might never have been able to break through his bottleneck and reach his current level.

"Grand Preceptor, I am deeply grateful. I, Xu Fu, will remember your kindness forever and will serve you with my life!" Xu Fu bowed solemnly to Yang Ling, expressing his gratitude.

Yang Ling helped Xu Fu up and said with a smile, "Xu Fu, we are brothers, why be so polite? I just hope that you can better serve the country and bring benefits to the people."

Xu Fu nodded: "Rest assured, Grand Preceptor, I will work even harder and live up to your expectations."

The two looked at each other and smiled, their hearts filled with hope and anticipation for the future. They knew that with the help of this elixir, they would be able to make greater contributions to the country and its people.

Just then, the king's messenger rushed over, looking flustered, and said, "Grand Preceptor, Lord Xu, something terrible has happened! The king has suddenly fallen seriously ill, and the royal physicians are helpless. We have specially requested the Grand Preceptor to come and treat him."

Yang Ling and Xu Fu were greatly alarmed upon hearing this, and they immediately followed the envoy to the palace. They found the king lying on the bed, his face as pale as paper, his breath weak, clearly indicating that he was seriously ill.

"Royal Advisor, you've finally arrived. Please take a look at the King's condition!" the Queen said anxiously.

Yang Ling stepped forward and carefully examined the king's condition, his brow furrowed. He discovered a strange toxin eroding the king's body; this toxin was extremely bizarre and unlike anything he had ever seen before.

"Grand Preceptor, is there any hope for the King?" the Queen asked, her voice trembling. She knew Yang Ling was the nation's only hope; if even he was helpless, then the King was truly beyond saving. Yang Ling remained silent for a moment before saying, "Your Majesty, please rest assured, I will do my best. However, this poison is extremely strange, and I need some time to research an antidote."

The Queen nodded: "Please do as you wish, Grand Preceptor. I will do my best to provide whatever is needed, as long as it can save the King."

Yang Ling turned to Xu Fu and said, "Xu Fu, I need your help. Let's study the source of this poison and the antidote together." He knew that Xu Fu was knowledgeable and might be able to provide some useful clues. Moreover, with the help of the elixir, Xu Fu's cultivation had greatly increased, which would also be of great help in researching the antidote.

Xu Fu nodded without hesitation, "Rest assured, Grand Preceptor, I will do my utmost." With that, the two began their intense and busy research work...

After several days of relentless searching, Yang Ling and Xu Fu finally pinpointed the source of the poison—a rare poisonous herb called the "Netherworld Flower." This herb thrives in dark, damp places, making it extremely difficult for ordinary people to detect. Furthermore, its toxicity is so potent that even the slightest mistake can lead to death. Clearly, the king had been deliberately poisoned, resulting in his current predicament.

Upon hearing the news, the Queen excitedly said to Yang Ling and Xu Fu, "Grand Preceptor, Lord Xu, you have finally found the source of the poison! That's wonderful! What about the antidote? Has it been developed yet?" She knew that only the antidote could completely cure the King; otherwise, finding the source of the poison would be of no use.

Looking at the Queen's anxious and expectant eyes, Yang Ling took a deep breath and said, "Your Majesty, please rest assured, the antidote formula has been obtained. However, this antidote is extremely difficult to prepare, requiring some precious and rare medicinal herbs. I will send people to find them as soon as possible. Time is of the essence; the King's condition may worsen at any moment, and I must prepare the antidote to save him as quickly as possible..."

The Queen was somewhat relieved to hear that the antidote formula had been found, but her heart tightened again when she learned that the antidote was difficult to prepare and required precious medicinal materials. She knew that every step from now on was crucial, and the slightest mistake would cost the King his life.

Just then, a young eunuch hurried in and knelt before the Queen: "Your Majesty, this servant is willing to test the medicine. If there is a problem with the medicine, it is no pity if this servant dies, it is better than letting His Majesty the King take the risk." His words stunned both the Queen and Yang Ling.

Looking at the unassuming eunuch before her, the Queen felt a surge of warmth in her heart. She knew this was his loyalty and commitment to the King. However, the risks of drug trials were too great; she could not easily allow an innocent person to take such a risk.

"You..." The Queen hesitated, unsure how to begin.

Yang Ling looked at the young eunuch, a hint of admiration flashing in his eyes. He knew that although this young eunuch was of lowly status, he possessed a brave and loyal heart. But he couldn't let the young eunuch die in vain.

"What's your name?" Yang Ling asked.

“Your servant is Xiao Li.” Xiao Li replied respectfully.

Yang Ling nodded: "Little Li, your courage is commendable. But drug testing is no small matter; a slight mistake could cost you your life. Are you sure you want to do this?"

Little Li nodded without hesitation: "Grand Preceptor, this servant is certain. It is this servant's honor to be able to test medicine for His Majesty the King."

After a moment of silence, Yang Ling said, "Alright. Since you've made up your mind, I'll grant your wish. But remember, no matter what happens, stay calm and follow my instructions."

Little Li nodded vigorously: "Rest assured, Imperial Advisor, this servant will certainly handle it well."

Yang Ling checked the antidote formula repeatedly to ensure it was correct before starting to prepare it. He knew the importance of this trial, as even the slightest negligence could lead to Xiao Li's death, so he was extremely careful.

Finally, the antidote was prepared. Yang Ling handed the antidote to Xiao Li: "Drink it." His voice trembled slightly, clearly showing his nervousness. After all, this was their first time trying this kind of antidote, and no one could guarantee its effectiveness.

Little Li took the antidote, took a deep breath, and drank it all in one gulp. He closed his eyes and waited quietly for the result, his heart filled with trepidation and anticipation. Yang Ling and the Queen also watched him nervously, fearing that something unexpected might happen.

Time ticked by, and a blush began to spread across Little Li's face. Suddenly, he snapped his eyes open, spat out a mouthful of blood, and collapsed heavily to the ground, motionless.

"Little Li!" the Queen cried out, rushing over to try to lift him up, but it was too late—Little Li had already died.

Yang Ling stood frozen in place, unable to accept this outcome. He had clearly checked the recipe repeatedly to ensure it was correct before letting Xiao Li taste it, so how could this have happened? He quickly went forward to examine Xiao Li's body, trying to find the cause of death.

However, at that moment, a commotion suddenly broke out outside: "Something's wrong! Someone has broken into the palace!" This was followed by the sound of hurried footsteps and the clash of weapons.

Yang Ling was intently examining Xiao Li's body, trying to find clues to the cause of death, when he was interrupted by the commotion outside. He looked up and saw a man dressed in fine clothes, exuding a menacing aura, barging in, followed by a group of guards armed with weapons.

"Fusu?!" Yang Ling recognized the person and exclaimed in surprise. He knew that Fusu had always coveted the throne, and his sudden appearance must mean he had ill intentions.

Fusu stared coldly at Yang Ling, a hint of murderous intent flashing in his eyes: "Yang Ling, how dare you! You actually dared to plot against His Majesty!"

Yang Ling was startled by these words, but quickly regained his composure. He knew that Fu Su was determined to seize upon the fact that Xiao Li had died while testing the medicine, hoping to frame him. However, he was upright and had nothing to fear, and naturally would not be intimidated by Fu Su's few words.

"Fusu, stop making baseless accusations!" Yang Ling said righteously. "The truth about His Majesty's poisoning has not yet been ascertained. How can you arbitrarily frame others?"

Fu Su sneered, "Framed? Hmph! If it weren't for the poison you concocted that killed Xiao Li, how could he have died suddenly? This is clearly evidence of your crime!" As he spoke, he pointed to Xiao Li lying on the ground.

Yang Ling's heart sank—it seemed Fusu had made preparations beforehand, intending to use this opportunity to put him to death. However, he did not panic, but calmly analyzed the situation. He knew that no amount of explanation would be of any use at this moment; only by finding the real culprit could he clear his name.

He took a deep breath and said, "Fusu, if you truly care about His Majesty, you should work with me to find out the truth, instead of making baseless accusations and framing loyal officials here." His voice was firm and powerful, leaving no room for doubt.

Fusu was intimidated by Yang Ling's imposing manner, and his resolve wavered slightly. However, he quickly regained his composure—he knew he couldn't back down now, or he would lose his chance to seize the throne. So, he gritted his teeth and said, "Yang Ling! Don't try to deny it! I saw with my own eyes you concoct poison to kill Little Li Zi, and you still want to deny it?" With that, he waved his hand, signaling the guards to seize Yang Ling. "Guards! Seize this traitor!" (End of Chapter)