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

At the same time, they kept a close eye on the movements of the Underworld. They understood that the Underworld's power remained formidable and could launch another attack at any time. Therefore, they had to remain vigilant and prepare for any challenges.

After their adventure in the Land of Illusions, Ying Zheng and his companions felt an unprecedented surge of power within them. They knew that even with a divine artifact like the Qiankun Bag, they could not afford to be complacent; the threat from the Underworld still existed, and they had to continue to improve their strength.

Ying Zheng and his entourage returned to Huanling City, weary from their journey. The city's tranquility and peace allowed them to relax somewhat. There, they were reunited with Xu Fu, who had been waiting for them.

"Xu Fu, it's been a long time," Ying Zheng greeted with a smile.

Xu Fu returned the smile: "Ying Zheng, you've finally returned. I have important matters to report."

Ying Zheng noticed Xu Fu's grave expression and asked, "What happened?"

"It's about Pangu." Xu Fu paused, then continued, "Because of the needs of his cultivation, he has decided to leave alone to face some major trials."

A hint of surprise flashed across Ying Zheng's eyes upon hearing this: "Pangu left alone? Did he say when he would return?"

Xu Fu shook his head: "No. He only said that this is an inevitable path, and one must face it alone."

Ying Zheng was silent for a moment, then took a deep breath: "Since it is his choice, we should respect it. I believe he will return safely."

One day, Ying Zheng and his team were deeply discussing future strategic plans in a secret chamber, the atmosphere tense and solemn. Suddenly, the light in the room dimmed, and everyone looked up to see a crack appear in the sky, from which dazzling light poured down. In this dazzling light, a figure slowly emerged, gradually becoming clearer. It was a Taoist priest, dressed in a flowing blue robe and wearing an ancient wide-brimmed hat, giving him an air of otherworldly detachment. He lightly waved a feather fan in his hand, as if he could stir up the wind and clouds.

"Who are you?" Ying Zheng asked warily.

The Taoist priest chuckled and said, "I am Yu Yangzi, a subordinate of the Jade Emperor, and I have come to lend you all a hand."

"Master Yuyangzi!" Ying Zheng and the others were startled, realizing that the person before them was no ordinary person, and quickly bowed.

"What brings you here, Daoist Master?" Ying Zheng asked respectfully.

Yu Yangzi nodded slightly and said, "The Qiankun Bag is good, but to truly unleash its power, it still needs the assistance of the 'Heavenly Mystery Stone.' The Heavenly Mystery Stone is hidden in 'Kunlun Void.' Whoever obtains this stone can glimpse the mysteries of heaven and earth and understand the secrets of the universe."

Upon hearing this, Ying Zheng and the others were moved, realizing that this would be another great opportunity to improve their strength.

“However, Kunlun Mountain is a gathering place for immortals, and it is difficult for mortals to enter. This journey will be fraught with difficulties. Are you prepared?” Yu Yangzi said earnestly.

Ying Zheng answered firmly, "To protect our homeland, no matter how difficult, we must face it." Seeing this, Yu Yangzi nodded with a smile, then waved his hand, revealing a passage: "This is the path to Kunlun Mountain. I will assist you on your journey, but once you enter Kunlun Mountain, everything will depend on yourselves."

Ying Zheng and his team members bowed deeply in gratitude, then stepped into the passage without hesitation.

At the other end of the passage lay a scene shrouded in ethereal mist, with towering mountains, flowing streams, and exotic flowers and rare herbs—a veritable fairyland. Upon their arrival, they encountered a massive, golden-furred ape, none other than the guardian beast of Kunlun Mountain—the Golden Monkey.

"Mortal, what brings you here?" The golden monkey bared its sharp teeth, its voice booming like thunder.

Ying Zheng stepped forward and explained, "Senior Golden Monkey, we have come to find the Heavenly Secret Stone and hope to receive your guidance."

Upon hearing this, the Golden Monkey pondered for a moment and said, "The Heavenly Secret Stone is extraordinary and not everyone can obtain it. If you can pass my three tests, I will take you to where the Heavenly Secret Stone is located."

Ying Zheng and the others exchanged glances and nodded firmly in agreement.

The Golden Monkey's first test—the "Trial of the Soul"—takes place in a deep and unfathomable forest. This forest seems to possess a life of its own, able to see into the hearts of every entrant, materializing their deepest fears and desires into a series of thrilling trials.

The moment they stepped into the forest, they felt an invisible force pierce their hearts, as if their very souls were being dissected. The scene before them immediately changed; it was no longer lush green trees and birdsong, but the very things they feared most.

Ying Zheng saw an endless sea of ​​fire, flames churning and threatening to devour everything. This was his deepest fear of failure and destruction. In the flames, he seemed to see his past failures and setbacks, those painful memories piercing his heart like sharp blades. Yet, in this endless torment, he did not give up. He closed his eyes, took deep breaths, and tried to calm his inner fear. When he opened his eyes again, the sea of ​​fire had vanished, replaced by a vibrant oasis. He understood that only by facing and conquering fear could he find inner peace.

Xu Fu faced a towering mountain, its steep slopes inspiring awe and fear. This reflected his own fear of challenge and the unknown. He had previously been hesitant to try new things for fear of failure, but now he knew he had to conquer this mountain. He climbed step by step, the process fraught with hardship and danger, but he never gave up. When he reached the summit, he witnessed breathtaking scenery he had never seen before. In that moment, he grasped the true meaning of challenge and found his own courage.

Another man was faced with an alluring orchard, its trees laden with gleaming golden fruit. This represented his yearning for power and wealth. He had once lost himself in the pursuit of these things, but now he understood that they were not true happiness. He resisted the temptation and turned away from the orchard. As he emerged from the forest, he felt an unprecedented sense of ease and freedom. He understood that true happiness stemmed from inner peace and contentment.

Each person underwent a profound inner struggle during this "trial of the soul." They confronted their deepest fears and desires, and also found their own courage and determination. This trial not only honed their will but also helped them understand themselves better.

As they emerged from the forest, their eyes shone with determination and confidence. They knew the road ahead was still long and arduous, but as long as they maintained their inner resolve and courage, nothing could stop them. They also grasped the true meaning of the "test of the soul"—not to test strength or wisdom, but to enable them to maintain inner peace and steadfastness in the face of difficulties and challenges.

Having undergone the trials of the soul, Ying Zheng and his companions set off again after a short rest. This time, the golden-haired monkey led them to a lush, primeval forest, the site of the second challenge, the "Trial of Wisdom."

"Is this the place of the Trial of Wisdom?" Ying Zheng asked, gazing up at the ancient trees that blotted out the sky.

The golden monkey nodded solemnly: "The forest is full of bewitching flowers; their fragrance can bewitch the mind. You must use your wisdom to stay clear-headed and find the exit to pass through." (End of Chapter)