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

After a long and arduous journey, the majestic Dragon Gate finally came into view. Ancient runes swirled with a mysterious aura around the stone gate, and at that moment, Yun Zhongzi descended riding on thunder.

"It is truly remarkable that you have managed to reach this place," Yun Zhongzi said with approval. "However, the three trials of the Dragon Gate are about to begin: the battle against inner demons requires facing one's inner fears; the journey of the soul requires understanding the true meaning of life; and the wheel of fate tests one's will and perseverance."

Xu Fu stroked his beard and pondered, "Although I have heard of the perils involved, we must do our utmost."

Within the illusion of his inner demons, Ying Zheng witnessed countless failures, experiencing excruciating pain. But amidst the torment, he suddenly realized that these setbacks were the foundation for his growth. Ultimately, he overcame his inner demons and was the first to pass the test.

The journey of the soul led everyone through the river of life, where past pain and future glory intertwined. This spiritual journey allowed them to deeply understand the meaning of life, and their eyes became increasingly profound and wise.

The trials of the Wheel of Fortune are the most severe, with one tribulation after another seemingly a cruel twist of fate. Yet, the group supports each other, overcoming obstacles with wisdom and courage. When they finally pass all the tests, not only have their cultivation improved, but their minds have also become clearer and more peaceful.

Yun Zhongzi smiled and said, "You have all attained enlightenment; the Dragon Gate will open a new realm for you."

The moment they passed through the Dragon Gate, the magnificent scenery astonished everyone. Exotic plants and flowers intertwined with shimmering light to create a wondrous world, leaving Xu Fu murmuring, "Where is this place?"

"This is the Dragon Gate Secret Realm, the starting point of your new journey." Yun Zhongzi's figure appeared and disappeared in the flowing light.

Suddenly, a gentle voice rang out: "Welcome, brave traveler." There stood an old man in an elegant robe, smiling, who introduced himself as Murong Bo, the guardian of the secret realm.

Upon hearing that everyone wanted to find the Immortal Spring, Murong Bo earnestly warned: "Although the secret realm contains opportunities, it also harbors evil forces. You must remember this."

The journey was fraught with peril, and Zhao Gao couldn't help but worry: "This time the hardships are even greater than before. Will we truly find the immortal spring?"

Ying Zheng surveyed his companions' resolute faces and replied loudly, "With concerted efforts, we will surely succeed."

Li Si remained worried: "How should we deal with that evil power?"

Yun Zhongzi's telepathic message rang out at the opportune moment: "With a pure heart, one can naturally dispel evil."

Upon reaching the foot of Immortal Spirit Mountain, an old man claiming to be the mountain spirit suddenly appeared. After learning their purpose, the mountain spirit set up a test of their hearts. Zhao Gao witnessed the tragedy caused by lust for power in a dream, and realized the true nature of his heart; Li Si, after experiencing repeated defeats, finally understood that failure is the foundation of success; Ying Zheng, on the other hand, overcame the pain of losing loved ones and realized the eternity of affection.

With the trial over, the Immortal Spring suddenly appeared in the secluded valley. The clear spring shimmered with a shimmering spiritual light, accompanied by ethereal celestial music. Everyone scooped up water from the spring and drank, feeling the clear stream cleanse their meridians, and their cultivation level suddenly became clear and enlightened.

Upon taking his leave, Ying Zheng solemnly expressed his gratitude: "I will never forget your guidance, senior."

The mountain spirit smiled and watched them go: "Though the road ahead is arduous, may you forever retain the pure heart of a child."

On their return journey, a bizarre black hole suddenly appeared, and evil energy coalesced into demonic creatures that lunged at them. The group unleashed their unique skills, fighting side-by-side to vanquish the evil spirits. Ying Zheng wiped away his sweat and smiled, saying, "This battle once again proves the power of our unity."

As the sun set, the figures of these practitioners gradually disappeared into the distance, their unwavering faith forever illuminating their path of seeking enlightenment.

As the last rays of the setting sun faded, Ying Zheng and his companions set up camp to rest in an open area. Gathered around a flickering campfire, they shared their insights and takeaways from the trials of the soul, creating a warm atmosphere filled with the exhilarating spirit of explorers.

"Today's battle was truly thrilling!" Yang Ling exclaimed excitedly. "Those pitch-black monsters almost made me think we were going to be wiped out."

“Indeed,” Li Si continued, “but it is precisely in such times of crisis that we truly appreciate the value of mutual support and the power of teamwork.” Ying Zheng smiled and nodded, then turned to Xu Fu, who sat quietly to the side: “Xu Fu, you performed exceptionally well in battle. What exactly was that special move that annihilated all the monsters?”

A slightly shy Xu Fu, pleased with the praise, touched the bridge of his nose: "That? Actually, it's a power I comprehended in the Immortal Spirit Spring. Even I didn't expect to be able to unleash it under those circumstances."

"Truly worthy of being our team's strategist!" Yang Ling patted Xu Fu on the shoulder enthusiastically.

Yun Zhongzi, who had been listening silently all along, suddenly spoke: "You have all made progress, which is truly commendable. But never forget that the cohesion and mutual trust among you are the most powerful source of strength."

Everyone agreed, knowing that they would encounter more difficulties on the road ahead, but as long as they worked together, there was no obstacle they could not overcome.

Just then, the sky suddenly changed, and the clouds rapidly gathered into a huge vortex. Everyone immediately stood up and looked up at the sky warily.

"This is..." Ying Zheng frowned, feeling a strong sense of oppression.

Yun Zhongzi's expression also turned serious: "This is the main force of that evil power; they seem to have already sensed your presence."

"How should we deal with this?" Li Si asked nervously.

Ying Zheng took a deep breath to calm himself: "Now that we have overcome numerous obstacles, even if it is the main force of evil, we must not back down. Everyone, be prepared. No matter what happens, we must work together to overcome this difficulty."

Everyone nodded in unison. Although they were inevitably apprehensive about facing an unknown and powerful enemy, their eyes revealed a resolute determination.

Suddenly, a beam of black light shot down from the vortex, revealing a figure clad in black robes. His face was hidden in the shadows, only his cold eyes were clearly visible.

"Welcome, brave traveler." The black-robed man's voice was cold and deep, like a call from the underworld.

Ying Zheng stepped forward, straightening his posture: "Who are you? Why are you hindering our journey?"

The man in black robes let out a low, cold laugh: "I am the messenger of the dark side of this world. Your journey threatens our survival. However, if you can prove you have the strength to contend with us, perhaps we can spare your lives."

"Prove our strength?" Yang Ling said, dissatisfied. "We've already overcome countless hardships on our journey, what more do we need to prove?"

A cold glint flashed in the black-robed man's eyes as he slowly said, "It's simple. Defeat the challenger I sent. If you can do that, I will allow you to continue your journey."

Ying Zheng gripped his weapon tightly and said resolutely, "Then let us see just how capable your challenger truly is."

The man in black robes waved his hand, and several more streaks of black light fell from the vortex, transforming into several burly warriors clad in dark armor. Their auras were powerful, clearly indicating they were no ordinary beings.

"Come on!" Ying Zheng shouted, charging towards the challenger first.

The fierce battle erupted instantly, with each team member giving their all and showcasing the strength and wisdom gained during their journey. They cooperated flexibly, skillfully utilizing their individual abilities to engage in a fierce confrontation with their challengers.

Li Si cleverly set up multiple traps, successfully restraining two challengers; Yang Ling, relying on his formidable strength, engaged in a power struggle with one challenger; Xu Fu used the power he gleaned from the Immortal Spring to provide support and healing for his companions. (End of Chapter)