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

Xu Fu nodded in response, a deep smile appearing on his wise face. He understood that this contest was not only a test of strength, but also a competition of wisdom and courage. Gazing at his companion, he spoke calmly: "Ying Zheng is absolutely right. Darkness is indeed terrifying, but light always shines in the darkest places. We have faced many trials, and each time we have overcome difficulties through unity and wisdom. This time will be no exception. As long as we work together, we will surely find the weakness of the dark forces and completely dismantle them."

Pangu gripped his battle axe tightly, his resolute face filled with determination. His imposing figure stood motionless in the night wind, like a towering mountain. His voice boomed like thunder: "We must not allow darkness to continue its rampage! We must fight for lives powerless to protect themselves! Let our courage become the light that dispels the darkness! No matter how many dangers lie ahead, we will forge ahead until we achieve final victory!"

The three men smiled at each other, their trust and friendship reaching new heights. They strode side-by-side towards the castle's massive gates, their steps steady and powerful. Each step felt weightless, for they knew that crossing this threshold would lead to a fierce battle of uncertain fate. Yet, they hesitated without flinching, their hearts filled with a thirst for victory and a steadfast commitment to justice.

As the castle gates slowly opened, a biting wind carrying a heavy, dark aura rushed out. This aura seemed to originate from the deepest abyss, carrying a chilling and malevolent force. They couldn't help but shiver, but this was instantly dispelled by their inner courage and sense of mission. Without hesitation, they stepped into the castle, ready to face the trials that were about to begin.

The devastation inside the castle was beyond imagination. Dark forces had corrupted everything; the once magnificent decorations were now in ruins, and the walls were covered with eerie runes, as if they were the marks of the dark forces themselves. A thick stench of decay and death permeated the air, sending chills down their spines. They cautiously moved through the dark corridors, constantly on guard against the lurking dangers around them.

Suddenly, a cold laugh shattered the deathly silence. The evil sorcerer emerged slowly from the shadows, his face contemptuous and disdainful, as if he had already manipulated the fates of the three men. He held a staff, wore a black robe, and seemed to blend seamlessly into the darkness.

"Hmph, you overestimating ants," the mage sneered. "You think you can stop me? How laughable! My power is beyond your imagination. The entire kingdom will fall into my dark territory! Your courage and wisdom are utterly worthless before me!"

Ying Zheng's face was ashen: "Since we have come, we have made full preparations. Your evil schemes will not succeed. We will defeat you with courage and wisdom, and let this land see the light again!" His voice was powerful and resonant, as if supported by an invisible force.

A rage flashed in the mage's eyes as he swung his staff, unleashing a beam of dark energy. This destructive energy roared towards them like hellfire. The three reacted swiftly, each using their unique abilities to defend against this fatal blow. Instantly, the sounds of fierce combat and the roar of colliding energy echoed throughout the ancient castle.

Pangu wielded his battle axe, cleaving through the dark energy with each strike, seemingly tearing apart the void; Xu Fu strategized, searching for weaknesses in the fierce battle; Ying Zheng, with unwavering will, led the group forward. They cooperated seamlessly, jointly resisting the fierce attacks from all sides.

As the battle continued, they grew increasingly exhausted. The mage's power was indeed suffocating, and his attacks seemed endless, repeatedly plunging them into peril. Dark energy relentlessly eroded their bodies and minds, and waves of fatigue and despair washed over them. But they showed no sign of giving up; instead, their resolve only strengthened.

Xu Fu, in a flash of inspiration, realized: "Wait! A direct confrontation is not a wise strategy! The mage's power originates from the 'Heart of Shadow,' and only by destroying it can we achieve complete victory!" His voice echoed in the darkness, like a guiding light. Ying Zheng and Pangu, suddenly enlightened, immediately changed their strategy, abandoning a direct assault and instead seeking an opportunity to approach the "Heart of Shadow." They skillfully dodged the mage's attacks, constantly probing for a breakthrough. After fierce clashes and a battle of wits, they finally found their opening in a brilliant coordinated attack. With immense power and unwavering will, Pangu swung his axe at the crucial moment, striking the black gem. A crisp "crack" resounded, and the "Heart of Shadow" shattered, dissipating into thick black smoke.

As the gem shattered, the mage let out a bloodcurdling scream. His body began to disintegrate rapidly, and the dark power receded like a flood whose source had been cut off. Finally, in a dazzling light, the evil mage vanished completely. As the dark energy dissipated, the shadows in the castle faded, revealing its former splendor once more. The decorations and murals that had been shrouded in darkness shone brilliantly in the light, as if telling an epic legend long forgotten.

The warm morning sun once again bathed this land, bringing life and hope. People who had been shrouded in darkness saw the light of day again and flocked out of their homes to celebrate their victory. Ying Zheng, Xu Fu, and Pan Gu sat exhausted on the ground, yet their faces radiated the joy of victory. They understood that they had not only stopped the ravages of darkness but also saved countless lives, a sense of mission that filled them with pride.

As the three men emerged from the castle, they were greeted by a cheering and grateful crowd. The kingdom, once shrouded in darkness, had been revitalized, and the people expressed their respect and gratitude, hailing them as heroes who had saved the nation. Many young people even stepped forward, requesting to follow them and fight alongside them for justice.

Ying Zheng, Xu Fu, and Pan Gu stood amidst the crowd, smiling and greeting, their hearts filled with satisfaction and contentment.

Deep within the ancient mountains, Yang Ling faced the Golden-Winged Roc across the distance. A surge of awe and unwavering resolve coursed through his chest. The eyes of this divine bird, like rare gems, shone with a dazzling brilliance that dared not be looked upon directly. Through those unfathomable pupils, Yang Ling seemed to glimpse the vast and boundless expanse of the starry sky.

He slowly inhaled and exhaled, suppressing his turbulent emotions, and humbly explained his purpose to the Golden-Winged Roc: "Honorable sacred bird, I have come seeking a metal-elemental spirit stone, hoping to restore balance to the vast earth. I am well aware of the domineering and profound power of the metal element, and I am willing to undergo trials to prove my sincere heart."

The Golden-Winged Roc spread its wings and soared into the sky, its cry like thunder from the heavens: "Insignificant mortal, your courage has caught my eye. However, the power of the Golden Spirit is not to be easily wielded. It symbolizes immortal divine power and conceals unparalleled wealth, requiring the wielder to possess a wise heart. Do you truly wish to face this test?"

Yang Ling's gaze was piercing, and he said resolutely, "I would not hesitate to die ten thousand times." Every word was firm and resounding, revealing an unwavering conviction.

The trial began. The Golden-Winged Roc transformed into a golden rainbow, soaring through the sky with dazzling speed. Yang Ling pursued closely behind, overcoming numerous obstacles. They traversed ravines where the howling winds were as sharp as divine weapons; they crossed deserts filled with golden sand, where endless dangers lurked beneath the glittering sea of ​​sand. (End of Chapter)