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

That morning, they finally reached the summit of the sacred mountain. Standing atop the majestic peak, overlooking the surging sea of ​​clouds and the continuous mountain range below, a surge of boundless pride welled up within them. The two understood that their journey to obtain the elixir of immortality was nearing its end, and next they would seek out the true location of that legendary medicinal herb.

"Mr. Yang, look!" Xu Fu suddenly pointed to a stone platform in the distance. "There seems to be a glowing, luminous herb on that platform. Could it be the medicine we've been seeking?"

Yang Ling looked in the direction of the sound and indeed saw a strange, emerald-green plant growing on the stone platform, its body shimmering with a warm glow, swaying gently as if it possessed sentience. He was immediately overjoyed: "This is it without a doubt! Let's hurry and gather it!"

Just as they were about to approach the stone platform, a loud rumble suddenly rang out, and a powerful column of energy shot into the sky from the center of the stone platform, forming an invisible barrier that blocked their path.

"Oh no! This is a guardian spirit beast of immortal medicine!" Yang Ling exclaimed in shock.

Xu Fu also sensed that this aura was extraordinary: "This aura contains vast spiritual power and awe-inspiring pressure; it must be emitted by the guardian spirit beast."

The two exchanged a glance, both understanding the resolute intent in each other's eyes. To obtain the elixir, they must first subdue this guardian spirit beast. They immediately channeled their life's cultivation, preparing for battle.

However, the spirit beast's power far exceeded expectations. Although it had no physical form, it could control the surrounding wind and cloud energy to launch attacks. Yang Ling and Xu Fu fought back fiercely, but were still forced to retreat step by step.

“Mr. Yang, such a head-on confrontation is by no means a good strategy,” Xu Fu anxiously advised. “We need to find another ingenious way to defeat the enemy.”

Yang Ling took a deep breath and said, "Do you remember the experience of subduing Qiongqi? At that time, it was by truly understanding the meaning of 'sincerity brings results' that we were able to defeat the enemy. Now, we should also calmly study the characteristics and weaknesses of this spirit beast."

Upon hearing this, Xu Fu suddenly realized: "What you say is absolutely right. We should observe it with our hearts and comprehend it with our spirits."

So the two closed their eyes and focused their minds again, using their spiritual senses to perceive the mysteries of the guardian spirit beast.

After profound reflection, when they reopened their eyes, their gazes shone with a clear understanding of the truth. This battle against the guardian spirit beast was destined to become a touchstone for testing their cultivation level.

"Have you figured out the key?" Yang Ling asked solemnly.

Xu Fu nodded solemnly: "Although this spirit beast can control the elements of heaven and earth, its power source seems to reside in the center of the stone platform. As long as we destroy that core, we can break the restriction."

"That suits me perfectly." A glint of light flashed in Yang Ling's eyes. "Now, let's join forces and attack their vitals!"

As soon as they finished speaking, two dazzling streams of light shot out from their palms, like two dragons emerging from the sea, heading straight for the core of the stone platform. The guardian spirit beasts immediately summoned a storm to intercept them, but under the combined attack of the two, the defenses gradually crumbled, finally exposing the energy core flowing within.

"Now is the time!" Yang Ling roared, channeling all his cultivation into his palm strike, which slashed towards the center of the stone platform. A dazzling light shot into the sky, precisely striking the source of energy.

With a deafening roar, the core of the stone platform shattered. The guardian spirit beast, having lost its source of power, let out a mournful cry before turning into wisps of green smoke and dissipating into the world.

Watching the fading afterimage of the spirit beast, the two exchanged a relieved smile. They knew that their victory was entirely due to their accumulated cultivation and their enlightenment during the battle. Even more gratifying was that the legendary elixir that could save all living beings from suffering was finally within reach.

They hurried to the stone platform, where the radiant herb still quietly bloomed, radiating a gentle, clear glow. Yang Ling carefully plucked it and treasured it gently into his jade box. This miraculous medicine, which concerned the lives of all the people under heaven, had to be carefully preserved without any mishap.

"Mr. Yang! We have finally obtained the elixir of immortality!" Xu Fu cried with joy. "The people of the world can finally be saved!"

Yang Ling stroked the box and smiled: "Yes, Xu Fu. We traveled across the ocean to find the elixir of immortality, and now we have finally achieved our goal."

"However, there is an even greater mission waiting for us to accomplish."

Xu Fu was stunned upon hearing this: "What are you referring to, Mr. Yang...?" Yang Ling gazed at the horizon where the sea met the sky: "We must not only make the elixir of immortality benefit the people of the Central Plains, but also widely spread our experiences and insights gained from this quest for the elixir of immortality, guiding more seekers of the Dao onto the right path of cultivation."

Xu Fu understood immediately—they wanted to bring hope to the common people and also contribute their modest efforts to the inheritance and development of the cultivation world. He nodded solemnly, "What you say is absolutely right! We will set off to return to the Central Plains immediately!"

Yang Ling and Xu Fu, carrying the jade box containing the elixir of immortality, slowly descended the mountain along the path they had come from. Despite being utterly exhausted, the thought of bringing blessings to all living beings made each step firm and powerful.

On their journey home, they encountered many strange and wondrous creatures they had never seen before. Each encounter not only amazed them but also strengthened their resolve to follow the Dao.

That day, as they traveled across the vast grasslands, they saw flocks of cranes dancing gracefully, their clear cries piercing the clouds. In the distance, herds of cattle and sheep grazed, and the melodious songs of pastoral life filled the air. This peaceful scene instantly refreshed the two men.

"Look how magnificent this grassland is!" Xu Fu exclaimed sincerely.

Yang Ling smiled and agreed, "The wonders of nature always bring joy and relief. However, the journey is urgent, and we need to return to the Central Plains as soon as possible."

As they were talking, they suddenly heard the sound of horses' hooves approaching like a sudden downpour. Turning around, they saw a troop of iron cavalry galloping towards them. The soldiers were clad in heavy armor, holding long spears, and their faces were filled with a murderous aura.

“It’s the Xiongnu cavalry!” Xu Fu immediately recognized the identity of the person in question.

Yang Ling's mind raced: "Why would the Xiongnu appear here? Could they be after the elixir of immortality?"

As expected, the leading general shouted sternly, "Leave the elixir! And I'll spare your lives!"

The two exchanged glances, both seeing a resolute determination in each other's eyes. The elixir was crucial to the fate of the world and could not be allowed to fall into the hands of foreign races. They immediately circulated their true energy and prepared for battle.

However, the Xiongnu cavalry's fighting strength far exceeded expectations; they not only outnumbered the enemy but were also exceptionally brave and skilled in battle. Under heavy encirclement, the two gradually felt overwhelmed.

"This protracted fighting is not a good strategy," Xu Fu said anxiously. "We must find a way to break through!"

Yang Ling said in a deep voice, "You take the elixir and go ahead, I'll cover the rear."

Xu Fu was deeply moved upon hearing this, knowing that Yang Ling intended to sacrifice himself to protect him. But how could he possibly live alone? He immediately declared resolutely, "We'll go together, we'll stay together!"

Looking at Xu Fu's resolute expression, Yang Ling felt a surge of warmth in his heart. He knew this companion was unparalleled in loyalty and bravery, and would never abandon him. He nodded and said, "Very well! Then let us fight side by side!"

Before they finished speaking, two dazzling beams of light shot from their palms, streaking through the air like meteors and piercing the enemy ranks. The Hun cavalry formation instantly cracked open.

"Break through!" Yang Ling shouted, and he and Xu Fu transformed into streaks of light and sped away. The angry roars of the Xiongnu echoed behind them, but the two did not stop, traversing the grasslands and dense forests, finally leaving their pursuers far behind…

After successfully shaking off their pursuers, Yang Ling and his companion traveled day and night to the Central Plains. The defeated Xiongnu cavalry had no choice but to return to their camp dejectedly to report back.

The atmosphere inside the Xiongnu king's tent was heavy. The defeated generals knelt before the tent, not daring to look up. The Chanyu's face was ashen, his sharp gaze sweeping over everyone.

"A bunch of good-for-nothings!" The Chanyu slammed his fist on the table in anger. "You outnumbered us and yet two of you escaped! What use are you to me?!" (End of Chapter)