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

Ying Zheng turned to Xu Fu and Pan Gu and solemnly said, "We have just arrived here, and everything seems unfamiliar and unpredictable. We must remain vigilant, while also seizing every opportunity to learn and grow."

Xu Fu nodded in agreement, "I plan to go to the Star Pavilion first to see if I can find any new knowledge about astronomy and constellations. Perhaps the astrologers there can give me more guidance."

Pangu, however, was full of fighting spirit. "I want to explore that haunted plaza and see if I have a chance to challenge that ancient magic circle. Of course, I will also remain vigilant to avoid unnecessary trouble."

After a moment's thought, Ying Zheng decided, "Then let's split up. But no matter what happens, we must remember that we are each other's strongest support. Tonight, we'll meet at this teahouse in the west of the city and share our experiences."

After reaching an agreement, the three each headed towards their respective goals. Xu Fu arrived at the Star Pavilion, whose grandeur and tranquility exceeded his expectations. The pavilion was filled with countless scrolls and books, each containing profound astronomical knowledge. He was quickly captivated by this knowledge and began to study them intently.

Meanwhile, Pangu arrived at the Mysterious Plaza, where a bustling crowd was constantly trying to enter the central magic circle, but most attempts ended in failure. After observing for a while, Pangu discovered that entering the magic circle seemed to require solving a specific puzzle. He decided to continue observing and wait for the right opportunity to act.

Ying Zheng then visited several renowned sages and leaders in the city, seeking to learn from them how to better manage and lead. He discovered that although the local culture and customs were vastly different from those he was familiar with, there were many commonalities in the principles of leadership. Through his exchanges with these wise men, he gained a great deal of valuable experience and insights.

As night fell, the three met as agreed at the teahouse in the west of the city. They sat around an old wooden tea table, sharing their experiences and insights from the day.

Xu Fu excitedly recounted what he saw and heard at the Star Pavilion, as well as the guidance he received from an elderly astrologer. "That astrologer told me that astronomy is not only about observing and recording the stars, but also a way of communicating with the universe. He also showed me an ancient star map, which is said to reveal the deep mysteries of celestial motion."

Pangu said with regret, "The magic array in the Ghost Plaza is indeed extraordinary. Although I didn't try to enter it today, by observing others' attempts, I discovered that it's not only a challenge of strength, but also a test of wisdom and strategy. Each time I fail, the array displays some clues, seemingly guiding the challenger to find the correct path. I plan to try again tomorrow, hoping to make a breakthrough."

Ying Zheng shared his conversation with wise men in the city: "Today I met several extremely wise individuals who have unique insights into leadership and management. One of them told me that true leadership stems from a deep understanding and trust in team members, as well as the courage to make decisions at critical moments. This is an extremely valuable insight for me."

The three shared their experiences and insights, learning from and inspiring each other. In this city full of mystery and challenges, they not only had to face external tests, but also had to search for the possibility of growth and transcendence within themselves.

Inside the teahouse, a seemingly elderly tea master quietly brewed tea for them, the fragrant aroma adding a touch of tranquility and elegance to their conversation. The tea master suddenly spoke: "Three young people, from your conversation, it seems you are all pursuing your own paths and growth. Although Illusionary Spirit City is vast, few can truly find their own path."

Xu Fu gazed curiously at the tea master, his eyes filled with a thirst for knowledge and aspirations for the future. This senior figure seemed like a towering mountain before them; though merely a tea master, his every gesture exuded an indescribable composure and wisdom. "Senior, you seem incredibly experienced; your life journey must be extraordinary," Xu Fu said respectfully. "The three of us are newcomers, filled with curiosity and uncertainty about this world. Do you have any guidance you could offer us?"

The tea master smiled slightly and shook his head. His smile held a profound and mysterious quality, as if he had seen through the essence of all things. "Young man, you overestimate me. I am just an ordinary tea master with limited knowledge. However, since you asked, I do have something to say to you."

He paused, his gaze slowly sweeping across the three faces before finally settling on Xu Fu's eyes. "Wherever you go, never forget your original aspirations." His voice was not loud, but every word was clear and powerful, "because that is the light that guides you forward."

After listening, all three fell into deep thought. They understood that although the tea master's words were simple, they contained profound truths. In this world full of mystery and the unknown, maintaining one's original aspirations and not being swayed by external temptations and distractions is indeed of paramount importance.

After the exchange, the three bid farewell to the tea master and returned to their respective lodgings. They knew that tomorrow would be full of challenges and opportunities. But as long as they held fast to their original aspirations and kept their goals and beliefs in mind, nothing was insurmountable.

Night fell, and the stars shone brightly. Xu Fu lay in bed, gazing at the starry sky outside the window, his heart filled with anticipation and longing. He knew that his journey had only just begun, and countless challenges and opportunities awaited him. But as long as he remained true to his original aspirations and forged ahead bravely, he would surely forge his own path.

The next morning, Xu Fu got up early and went to the Star Pavilion. He hoped that by studying the mysteries of astronomy and constellations in depth, he could better understand the essence and laws of this world. As he entered the Star Pavilion, an astrologer who looked young but had deep eyes greeted him.

"You must be Xu Fu, who showed great interest in astrology yesterday?" the astrologer asked with a smile. "I am Qingyun, the head of the Star Pavilion. Would you be willing to explore deeper astronomical mysteries with me?"

Xu Fu was thrilled and nodded repeatedly. "Senior, it is my honor to receive your guidance," he said respectfully. "I have always had a deep interest in astronomy, especially ancient star charts and astronomical predictions. I believe that by studying this knowledge in depth, I will be able to better understand the essence and laws of this world."

Qingyun nodded, expressing his appreciation for Xu Fu's humility and eagerness to learn. "Very good. Young people should have this kind of thirst for knowledge and spirit of exploration," he said with a smile. "Astronomy is not only a science, but also an art. It is closely linked to our destiny and can reveal many mysteries about life and the universe. Today, I will teach you an ancient art of astronomical prediction—'Spirit Star Technique'. I hope you will study it diligently and master its essence."

As he spoke, he led Xu Fu towards a secret chamber. The room was simply furnished yet filled with an air of mystery. Ancient star charts and astronomical instruments hung on the walls, and a faint scent of sandalwood permeated the air. (End of Chapter)