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

After Qingyun had Xu Fu sit down, he began to explain the mysteries of the Spirit Star Technique in detail. He started with the most basic astrological knowledge and gradually delved into the interpretation and prediction techniques of complex star charts. Xu Fu listened attentively, occasionally raising his own questions and opinions. The two sat in the secret room for a whole day, only concluding their in-depth exchange as night fell.

When Xu Fu emerged from the secret chamber, his heart was filled with joy and gratitude. He knew he had learned much valuable knowledge and experience that day, which would have a profound impact on his future journey. He secretly resolved to study and practice this knowledge even harder, so as not to disappoint the expectations and teachings of his predecessor, Qingyun.

Meanwhile, Pangu once again stepped onto the stone path of the haunted plaza. Sunlight slanted across his resolute face, casting a faint shadow. He took a deep breath of the fresh air, sensing the unique, mysterious, and ancient atmosphere of the plaza. Today, he was determined to test the depths of the legendary "haunted magic array."

As Pangu approached the edge of the magic circle, an elderly-looking man appeared in his sight. The man wore a long grey robe, was slightly hunched, and held a peculiar staff. The staff was inlaid with unknown gems, shimmering with an eerie light. The man's eyes were unfathomable, as if they contained the wisdom of the entire universe.

Pangu stepped forward and politely bowed to the old man: "Senior, hello. My name is Pangu. I came here yesterday to observe the magic array, and I have come today specifically to challenge it."

The old man looked Pangu up and down, a hint of appreciation flashing in his eyes. He spoke slowly, his voice carrying a distant, resonant quality: "Young friend, I see that you possess unwavering will and extraordinary bearing. This 'mystical array' is no ordinary thing; it contains the ancient wisdom and endless mysteries of Illusionary Spirit City. It is not only a testing ground for strength but also a crucible for the soul. Are you ready?"

Pangu nodded, his eyes firm and full of conviction: "Yes, senior. I am ready, and I will do my best no matter what challenges I face."

The old man smiled slightly, his wrinkles seemingly smoothing out at that moment. He extended a withered finger and pointed to the center of the magic circle: "Then, please. But before you enter, I'd like to give you some pointers. This magic circle is infinitely variable, but as long as your mind is clear, you will find the key to pass through."

Pangu was overjoyed and quickly thanked the old man for his kindness. Under the old man's careful guidance, Pangu began to step into the magic array step by step. Although his steps were light, each step was exceptionally steady and powerful. The light of the magic array flickered and changed with his steps, as if it were conversing with him.

As time passed, Pangu gradually became immersed in the mysteries of the magic array. He sensed the flow and changes of energy within the array and attempted to communicate with it. In this process, his mind became increasingly calm and clear, as if it had been cleansed.

Under the old man's careful guidance, Pangu gradually grasped some of the operational rules of the magic array. He discovered that this magic array was not merely a test of external force, but also a kind of spiritual enlightenment and tempering. Only those whose state of mind had reached a certain level could truly understand its profound meaning and successfully pass through it.

And so, accompanied and guided by the old man, Pangu explored deeper and deeper into the magic array. Although the process was full of challenges and unknowns, his heart was filled with anticipation and confidence. He knew that no matter the outcome, this would be a rare opportunity for cultivation and training.

As the sun set and its golden rays bathed the Ghost Plaza, Pangu finally took the last step out of the magic circle. He turned around and looked at the old man who remained still at the edge of the circle, his eyes filled with gratitude and respect. He bowed deeply to the old man: "Thank you, senior. Your guidance and companionship have benefited me immensely."

The old man smiled and nodded, saying nothing more. But his eyes revealed his affirmation and expectation for Pangu. He knew that this young man had successfully crossed an important threshold, and his future path would be even broader and brighter.

Under guidance, Ying Zheng also stepped into the illusionary array, preparing to further hone his skills.

The moment Ying Zheng stepped out of the magic array, the entire land seemed to tremble slightly. The onlookers cast astonished and admiring glances, their whispers seemingly celebrating the birth of a legend. Ying Zheng paid no heed to these comments, simply taking a deep breath and feeling the unprecedented power surging through his meridians.

"Congratulations, young man." The old man's voice rang in his ears, filled with satisfaction and praise. "You have successfully passed the magic array trial. This is not only proof of your strength, but also a sublimation of your state of mind." Ying Zheng turned and bowed solemnly: "Thank you for your guidance, senior. Without your help, I'm afraid I would not have been able to achieve this."

The old man gently waved his hand: "This is all due to your own good fortune and hard work. I am merely a guide." He paused briefly, then continued: "However, the magic array test is only the beginning. The Illusionary Spirit City holds countless opportunities, but it is also fraught with danger. You must always be vigilant and never be careless."

Ying Zheng nodded solemnly: "This junior will remember this. I will cherish this opportunity and live up to your high expectations."

Suddenly, a commotion arose from the other end of the square. Ying Zheng and the old man looked in the direction of the sound and saw something unusual happening where a crowd had gathered. Driven by curiosity, Ying Zheng decided to go and investigate.

He squeezed through the crowd and discovered a white-robed cultivator practicing swordsmanship. The man held a long sword, its light flowing like a dragon emerging from the sea; his agile figure and sharp sword intent amazed all who watched.

"What exquisite swordsmanship!" Ying Zheng exclaimed sincerely.

The white-robed cultivator sheathed his sword and turned around upon hearing the voice. His face was handsome yet cold, his eyes revealing an indomitable sharpness. "Newcomer? My name is Bai Ze, a fellow cultivator." He took the initiative to show goodwill to Ying Zheng.

Ying Zheng nodded in response: "I am Ying Zheng. I just passed through a supernatural array. Judging from your superb swordsmanship, you must be a master in this field."

Bai Ze's lips curled slightly: "I dare not claim to be a master; I have only made some progress in swordsmanship. However, your aura is deep and powerful, suggesting your cultivation is extraordinary. Would you care to spar a little?"

A gleam of excitement flashed in Ying Zheng's eyes: "Just what I wanted! I've long wanted to experience the strength of the cultivators from Illusionary Spirit City."

The two exchanged a smile, then walked to an open space in the center of the plaza. Bai Ze drew his longsword, the tip lightly touching the ground: "Please enlighten me!"

Ying Zheng did not delay, circulating his spiritual energy and preparing his fists to strike. "Please!" he shouted, his figure vanishing from the spot in an instant.

What happened next left everyone speechless. The two figures clashed, their fists and swords flashing, each exchange carrying the force of a thunderbolt. Their speed and strength were beyond the imagination of ordinary people.

"Incredible!" someone exclaimed in astonishment. "These two have likely reached the pinnacle of cultivation!"

After the fierce battle, Ying Zheng and Bai Ze retreated several steps simultaneously. Though their clothes were somewhat torn, both wore satisfied smiles. "That was exhilarating!" Bai Ze spoke first. "I never expected to meet an opponent like you in Illusionary Spirit City!" (End of Chapter)