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

Under Qing Lingzi's watchful eye, the group moved the boulder to the designated spot. The stone slab shone with extraordinary light, lifting up a treasure chest containing a luminous token.

Qing Lingzi smiled and handed over the token: "Congratulations on passing the first test. This token is the team's credentials, please keep it safe."

Ying Zheng accepted the token: "Thank you for your guidance, senior. Shall we move on to the next place?"

Qing Lingzi led the way: "The tests to come will place even greater emphasis on trust and understanding."

Upon reaching the suspension bridge between the two mountains, one sees that the bridge is narrow and dangerous, swaying in the wind.

“This is the ‘Bridge of Trust’,” Qing Lingzi explained. “You must cross the bridge in pairs, blindfolded, led by your partner. Only by trusting each other wholeheartedly can you cross safely.”

Xu Fu stroked his long beard: "It is indeed a test. But since we have come this far together, we should entrust our lives to each other."

Pangu laughed and patted Ying Zheng on the shoulder: "I'll lead the way! Ying Zheng, you lead the way, I trust you!"

Ying Zheng nodded solemnly: "Brother Pangu, rest assured." He then helped Pangu, who had his eyes closed, steadily onto the bridge. The suspension bridge creaked, but the two of them walked as if on flat ground, safely reaching the other side.

Then Xu Fu was blindfolded and guided across the bridge by Ying Zheng. He walked calmly, relying entirely on his trust in Ying Zheng, and successfully crossed the bridge.

Qing Lingzi's eyes showed approval: "You have all demonstrated commendable trust and cooperation. Please follow me to the final trial."

Upon reaching the open space, one sees an exquisite mechanism standing in the center, resembling an ancient astronomical instrument, covered with symbols and markings.

Qing Lingzi pointed to the device: "This level is called 'Wheel of Wisdom.' Each of the three people needs to solve part of the puzzle, and the mechanism can only be activated when all three answers are combined."

Ying Zheng, Xu Fu, and Pan Gu exchanged a glance, all reading the same resolute intent in each other's eyes. They then approached the mechanism, examining it closely and exchanging ideas.

Xu Fu was the first to notice the pattern in the arrangement of a set of astronomical symbols and said in a low voice, "These symbols reflect the ancient understanding of celestial phenomena and must be rearranged according to a specific star chart order."

Pangu was more perceptive of mechanical structures. He found a hidden switch and tried to analyze its operating mechanism: "There is a complex gear structure here. It seems that we need to find the correct starting steps."

Ying Zheng stared intently at the inscriptions on the device, silently reciting the engraved text: "These words seem to contain hidden guidance, telling us how to coordinate the celestial phenomena with the gears, so as to find the way to activate it."

Working together, the three gradually unraveled the mystery. Xu Fu rearranged the symbols to correspond to specific celestial phenomena; Pangu used his familiarity with mechanics to figure out the correct sequence of gear activation; and Ying Zheng combined the clues from the inscriptions with the discoveries of the other two to finally determine how to activate the mechanism.

As they completed their respective tasks, the mechanism suddenly emitted a slight vibration, then slowly began to operate, shooting a beam of light from its center straight into the sky. Within the beam of light, a dazzling star map appeared, precisely the constellation arrangement they had adjusted.

Qing Lingzi stepped forward with a smile: "You did an excellent job. With your intelligence and teamwork, you successfully activated the 'Wheel of Wisdom.' This shows that you not only possess individual talent and strength, but more importantly, you can trust each other and face challenges together." Then, Qing Lingzi took out a gleaming token from her sleeve and handed it to the three: "This is proof that you have passed the final test, and it is also a symbol of your teamwork and wisdom. May you always maintain this unity and wisdom as you face the road ahead."

Ying Zheng accepted the token and solemnly bowed to Qing Lingzi: "Thank you for your guidance, Senior Qing Lingzi. We will remember this experience and continue to move forward together."

Xu Fu and Pan Gu also expressed their gratitude, and the three of them were filled with anticipation and confidence for the journey ahead. They knew that as long as they trusted and helped each other and worked together, there was no difficulty they could not overcome.

Led by Qing Lingzi, they returned to the starting point of the trials. Qing Lingzi turned to face the three of them, her expression solemn, and said, "You have passed all the trials, demonstrating excellent teamwork and problem-solving wisdom. But before you move forward, there is something important I need to tell you."

The three immediately focused their attention, ready to listen. Qing Lingzi continued, "This world is far more vast and complex than you have ever seen or known. The trials you have experienced are but a small part of a long journey. In the future, you will encounter many more unknown challenges and face even more arduous missions."

Ying Zheng nodded and solemnly replied, "We are ready. No matter how difficult the road ahead may be, we will forge ahead bravely and fearlessly."

Xu Fu added, "Yes, after experiencing these trials, we are even more convinced that nothing is impossible as long as we work together."

Pangu brandished his giant axe, declaring with boundless pride, "Let the challenges of the future come even more fiercely! We are ready to face them all!"

Looking into their resolute eyes, Qing Lingzi felt a surge of respect. She smiled and said, "Very good. Your courage and determination are admirable. Before you leave, I would like to give you a gift, hoping it will be helpful on your journey."

Having said that, Qing Lingzi took out a small, exquisite box from her sleeve and handed it to Ying Zheng. Ying Zheng carefully opened it, and inside lay a compass emitting a soft glow. This compass was different from ordinary ones; its surface was engraved with fine runes, making it appear ancient and mysterious.

Qing Lingzi explained, "This item is called the 'Needle of Wisdom.' It can guide you to find the right direction, especially when you are confused and lost. But remember, its ultimate guidance comes from the choices in your heart."

The three thanked him in unison, cherishing this precious gift. Ying Zheng carefully put away the compass, and then the three bowed to Qing Lingzi in gratitude.

Then, guided by Qing Lingzi, a portal of light appeared once more. Qing Lingzi said, "Now, you can continue your journey. Remember, no matter how many difficulties lie ahead, never forget your original aspirations, uphold your beliefs, and support each other."

The three took a deep breath, stepped into the portal in unison, disappeared into the light, and embarked on the next leg of their journey.

The portal slowly closed, and Qing Lingzi stood silently, watching them depart. She believed that these three would surely write their own glorious chapters on their future journey, overcoming all challenges and achieving their goals and dreams.

As the portal closed, Qing Lingzi turned and looked into the distance. She understood that this world was full of unknowns and uncertainties, and everyone who embarked on the journey would face their own trials and choices. But it was precisely these trials and choices that shaped their character, making them stronger and wiser.

As Ying Zheng, Xu Fu, and Pan Gu stepped through the portal of light, their hearts were filled with anticipation and nervousness. On the other side of the portal lay a brand new world, full of unknowns and challenges. But they also knew that with mutual trust and cooperation, and their own courage and wisdom, no obstacle was insurmountable.

Passing through the portal, the scenery gradually came into focus. They arrived at a beautiful valley, surrounded by verdant mountains, with a clear stream meandering through it, its murmuring waters bringing a refreshing coolness. The air was filled with the fragrance of flowers and grass, making them feel incredibly comfortable and peaceful. (End of Chapter)