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

Pangu, filled with curiosity and excitement, said, "No matter where it leads, I can't wait to explore! Let's go together and see what the other world is like."

The three stepped into the portal together, their figures gradually dissolving into the light as they embarked on their unknown journey.

The portal slowly closed, and the island and altar returned to tranquility. Only the gentle ripples on the lake witnessed what had just happened. In the depths of the distant valley, the mysterious creature reappeared. It gazed at the closed portal, as if anticipating something. Then, it softly played a tune on its flute and turned to disappear into the dense forest.

As the three stepped through the portal, they were instantly engulfed by dazzling light. As the light slowly faded, a vast and mysterious world unfolded before them—the sky was tinged with an unusual purple hue, the stars moved along unique trajectories, and the air was filled with a transcendent and otherworldly atmosphere.

Ying Zheng looked around and couldn't help but sigh, "Where exactly is this place? It's completely different from the world we originally inhabited."

Xu Fu, also looking around with surprise, said softly, "The spiritual energy here is abundant and rich, quite in line with the legendary immortal realm. It seems we have indeed stepped into some unknown and mysterious world."

Pangu gripped his giant axe tightly and said excitedly, "Whether this is the Immortal Realm or some other secret realm, reaching this point is already a rare opportunity! We must explore it carefully."

Just as they were preparing to explore this mysterious realm, a gentle voice rang out from behind: "Welcome to the Spirit Realm, the destination for all who seek wisdom and power."

The three turned around and saw an immortal dressed in a plain white robe and wearing a celestial crown gracefully approaching. A hazy halo surrounded him, making the surrounding atmosphere sacred and solemn.

Ying Zheng stepped forward, bowed respectfully, and asked, "May I ask, Immortal Master, is this truly the Immortal Realm? How did we come to be here?"

The immortal smiled and explained, "This place is not the immortal realm you speak of, but it is a sacred place that is close to the immortal domain. You were able to come here because you passed the altar trial, proving the purity of your hearts and your thirst for wisdom."

Upon hearing this, Xu Fu's eyes flashed with a strange light: "Since this place is the destination for seekers of the Dao, may we cultivate even more profound knowledge and skills here?"

The immortal nodded: "Of course. This place contains ancient wisdom and supreme power. As long as one is sincere and diligent in cultivation, one will surely achieve one's wish."

Pangu exclaimed excitedly, "Then what are we waiting for? Let's begin our cultivation immediately! I feel that every inch of this land holds hidden mysteries."

The immortal smiled and beckoned them to follow: "Since you are eager to learn, come with me. I will take you to see a true sage who will teach you how to seek and utilize the power of the spiritual realm in this world."

The three followed the immortal through layers of breathtakingly beautiful scenery, finally arriving before an ancient and elegant palace. The immortal paused and said, "In this palace dwells a wise man who has cultivated for thousands of years; his wisdom is unfathomable. You may seek his guidance, but you must remember: one should approach a wise man with utmost sincerity and respect."

The three solemnly agreed and followed the immortal into the palace. The interior was furnished in a simple yet exquisite style, and the walls were adorned with colorful paintings depicting mythological scenes, each shimmering with a faint glow, as if they were alive.

Passing through numerous corridors, they arrived at a spacious hall. In the center sat an elderly man with white hair, his deep eyes seemingly able to see through everything. The immortal bowed to the old man and introduced him: "This is the wise man of the Spirit Realm. You may all speak freely."

Ying Zheng stepped forward and bowed, saying, "Wise Senior, we are travelers from afar, who have entered the Spirit Realm by chance. We humbly request that you impart your wisdom to aid us on our future journey." The Wise Senior slowly opened his eyes and calmly said, "Your presence here demonstrates your aspiration to seek truth and the Dao. Tell me, what ability do you most desire to master?"

Xu Fu pondered for a moment before replying, "I have always been fascinated by astronomy, astrology, and the wisdom of ancient civilizations, and I hope to gain a deeper understanding in this field."

Pangu declared boldly, "I wish to increase my power and study how to better wield it to protect my companions and uphold justice."

The wise man nodded slightly and turned to Ying Zheng: "Then, what do you seek?"

After a long period of contemplation, Ying Zheng replied, "I am willing to study the way of governance, not only for myself, but also to lead everyone to grow together and face challenges head-on."

The wise man showed an approving expression: "Excellent! A wise ruler can guide his people towards the light. I will impart to you the true essence of wisdom, enabling you to handle decision-making and governance with ease."

The wise man then instructed the three men separately. Xu Fu learned the secret art of star observation, which allowed him to foresee the future through the trajectories of stars; Pangu not only improved his strength but also mastered the art of controlling his power; and Ying Zheng was given the wisdom of governance, understanding how to coordinate the overall situation and lead the people.

Under the sage's guidance, the three not only honed their individual skills but also gained a deeper understanding of the true meaning of teamwork. The sage taught them: "Even the strongest warriors need help when facing unknown dangers; true strength comes from the trust and cooperation of a team."

During their studies, the three often exchanged insights and inspired each other. Xu Fu's astronomical observation skills could predict future changes, Pangu's power became a guarantee for dealing with crises, and Ying Zheng's wisdom guided them in the right direction.

One day, the wise man summoned the three and told them an important matter: "Your studies are nearing their end, but before you leave, you must undergo a final trial. This test will verify what you have learned and your ability to work as a team."

The three looked at each other, their eyes filled with unwavering determination. They understood that this was not only a test of their knowledge, but also a test of their teamwork.

The wise man led them to a secret realm filled with ancient runes: "This is the 'Spiritual Trial Grounds,' where you must enter to activate the 'Heart of Wisdom' located at its center. Only a perfectly coordinated team can overcome the numerous trials and awaken the power of the Heart of Wisdom."

The three responded in unison and stepped into the trial grounds through the entrance opened by the wise man.

The trial grounds were filled with traps and obstacles, each requiring the three members to utilize their individual strengths to pass through. Xu Fu used his astronomical observation skills to deduce the patterns of the traps, Pangu used his strength to clear the obstacles in their path, and Ying Zheng used his wisdom to coordinate the actions of the group, ensuring the efficient resolution of the challenges.

After a long and arduous journey, the three finally arrived at the core of the trial grounds. There, a massive sphere of light, composed of ancient runes—the "Heart of Wisdom"—floated in the air. Following the wise man's guidance, the three joined forces to activate the sphere, instantly illuminating the entire trial grounds with brilliant light. Scenes from their journey appeared within the sphere, as if witnessing their growth and transformation.

As the light faded, the three reappeared before the wise man. The wise man said with satisfaction, "You have passed the final test, proving that you not only possess knowledge and skills, but also an indomitable team spirit. Now, you may continue your journey with what you have gained from the Spirit Realm."

The wise man took out three radiant badges and presented them to the three: "These are 'Spirit Realm Commemorative Badges,' symbolizing your growth here and serving as a testament to your team spirit. Wherever you go in the future, whatever difficulties you encounter, as long as you remain united, you will surely overcome all obstacles." (End of Chapter)