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

"Is this the power of the divine?" Ying Zheng said, sensing the changes within his body.

The mysterious figure nodded in confirmation: "Indeed. This is the power of divine illusion. I hope you can use this power wisely to bring peace and justice to the world."

Ying Zheng slowly inhaled and exhaled, feeling the wondrous power flowing within him and resonating with the profound rhythm of heaven and earth. He solemnly declared, "We will certainly make good use of this gift to protect all living beings and to pass on the righteous path."

A relieved smile spread across the mysterious figure's face as its form gradually blurred: "Remember, the greater the power, the heavier the responsibility. The power of the divine illusion is not a toy, but a rigorous test of your will."

The lingering sound still echoed in the palace, but the figure had already turned into wisps of smoke and vanished.

Yang Ling strode forward, his gaze intently scrutinizing Ying Zheng: "Your Majesty, have you noticed any changes in your body? What exactly is the wonder of this divine power?"

Ying Zheng closed his eyes and concentrated, carefully comprehending: "This power is sometimes like crashing waves, sometimes like a clear spring. It contains wisdom, courage, and benevolence, like a guiding star for those who are lost."

Li Si stroked his beard and nodded: "Excellent. With this divine power, our long-cherished wish to protect the world and fulfill our ideals is one step closer."

Yang Ling rubbed his hands together excitedly: "Hehe, I've been wanting to try out this divine power for ages! I'll definitely show those evil spirits what we're made of!"

Ying Zheng opened his eyes, surveyed his comrades beside him, and felt a surge of pride and gratitude in his heart: "With you all by my side, I have nothing to fear. Let this divine power write our immortal legend!"

The four men exchanged smiles, their hearts filled with lofty ambitions. They knew that a brand new journey was about to begin, and they were already fully prepared.

Just as they were about to leave the ruins, a golden radiance descended from the heavens. When the light dissipated, an old man with an air of otherworldly grace was revealed.

The old man, with a kind and benevolent face and eyes gleaming with wisdom, said, "Congratulations to all of you for passing the trial and being granted divine power. I am the guardian of this realm, True Man Nanhua, and I have come to convey the decree of the Heavenly Realm."

Everyone quickly bowed and said, "Greetings, Master. May we ask what teachings you have?"

The old man smiled and looked them over: "Although you have gained divine power, you still need to diligently cultivate to reach the pinnacle of your abilities. The Heavenly Realm has bestowed this opportunity upon you to assist you in your advancement in cultivation."

Yang Ling pressed on with curiosity, "What kind of opportunity is this? Can it greatly increase our power?"

The old man nodded slightly: "This opportunity will lead you into a secret realm, filled with rare and exotic beasts and wondrous scenery. You must find your own destiny within this realm and improve your cultivation through trials."

Xu Fu was overjoyed: "It sounds so enchanting! May we set off immediately?"

The old man gently flicked his whisk: "Do not be impatient. This secret realm is no child's play; it is a further test of your character. You must prepare sufficient supplies and magical artifacts to navigate it with ease."

Li Si pondered for a moment and said, "What you say makes sense. We should return and make preparations as soon as possible to ensure that nothing goes wrong."

Ying Zheng agreed, saying, "That's exactly right. We must live up to the Heavenly Realm's generous gift and strive to break through our limits in the secret realm."

The old man's face showed satisfaction: "Good. Once you are all ready, simply silently recite my name, and I will guide you into the secret realm."

After speaking, he transformed into golden light and shot straight into the sky. Everyone looked up at the heavens, filled with longing and anticipation.

Upon returning to the mortal realm, Ying Zheng led his people in preparations. They not only ensured sufficient food and water but also meticulously crafted magical artifacts and elixirs imbued with divine power. During this time, they visited renowned mountains and hermits, seeking numerous cultivation secrets. These masters were full of praise for their determination and generously shared their cultivation insights.

With everything in place, they chose an auspicious day and chanted in unison the title of the True Man of Nanhua. Instantly, golden light descended from the sky, enveloping everyone. When the intense light dissipated, they found themselves in a bizarre and wondrous secret realm.

"Is this the secret realm?" Xu Fu exclaimed in amazement as he looked around at the dazzling and wondrous scenery.

Li Si stroked his beard and smiled, "Indeed. This place is filled with divine energy, truly a treasure trove for cultivation." Yang Ling couldn't wait to stretch his limbs, "Hehe, let's begin our training! I'll definitely show those monsters my skills!"

Ying Zheng smiled at his companions: "Since we're here, let's make the most of this opportunity. May we all achieve breakthroughs here."

Their journey through the secret realm was full of adventures. They encountered talking spirit mushrooms, flying fairy flowers, and flame-breathing vines. All these creatures were friendly. One day, while passing by the shimmering, dreamlike lake, they suddenly heard a heavenly song. There, in the center of the lake, they saw a fairy dancing gracefully.

The fairy paused her dance, smiling gently as she greeted them: "Welcome to Dream Lake. Have you all come seeking your destiny?"

Ying Zheng bowed respectfully: "Greetings, Fairy. We have come seeking extraordinary fortune, and we hope you will guide us."

The fairy gently nodded her jade-like head: "Since you have entered this place, it is fate. I can grant you a trial to help you improve your cultivation."

Yang Ling asked with great interest, "What kind of trial is it? Will it greatly increase our power?"

The fairy explained softly, "This trial requires entering an illusionary realm to undergo trials. Only by passing through numerous trials can one achieve a true breakthrough."

Xu Fu, eager to try, said, "This sounds quite interesting! May we begin immediately?"

The fairy shook her head: "Wait. This illusion is no ordinary place; we must be fully prepared."

Li Si wholeheartedly agreed: "The fairy's teachings are correct. We should return and make arrangements as soon as possible, striving to give it our all."

Ying Zheng solemnly promised, "I will not fail the fairy's high expectations. I will make careful preparations to meet the challenge."

The fairy nodded with satisfaction: "Very good. Once you are ready, come to the lakeside and silently say my name." After speaking, she transformed into a shimmering light and disappeared into the center of the lake.

After returning to camp, the group discussed their strategy in detail. They devised plans based on their respective strengths and practiced them repeatedly until they were proficient. When they returned to Dream Lake on an auspicious day, they found that many cultivators had already gathered on its shores.

While they were waiting, a dignified and imposing man approached and struck up a conversation: "You gentlemen have also come for the Illusionary Realm Trial? We are truly kindred spirits!"

Ying Zheng replied with a smile, "Indeed. Are you also here seeking an opportunity?"

The valiant warrior laughed heartily: "I, Xiang Yu, am but a cultivator. I've heard of the profound mysteries of this illusory realm trial, and have come to investigate."

Yang Ling asked curiously, "Brother Xiang, do you have any cultivation insights that I can learn from?"

Xiang Yu said with conviction, "The key to cultivation lies in perseverance and relentless progress. Only by constantly surpassing oneself can one achieve a true breakthrough."

Li Si clapped his hands in praise: "Brother Xiang's insight is brilliant. The path of cultivation is arduous, but as long as one's resolve is firm, success is assured."

Just then, the Dream Fairy appeared in mid-air: "Are you all ready? The gate to the illusion is about to open!"

Everyone stood solemnly, fully armed. Suddenly, a whirlpool appeared in the center of the lake, revealing a gate to another world amidst shimmering light.

"The illusion has opened! May all your wishes be fulfilled!" The fairy transformed into starlight and vanished.

One by one, everyone leaped into the vortex. Upon entering the illusion, they saw countless rays of light and churning clouds, as if they had stepped into a crystal fairyland.

"Is this the illusionary realm?" Xu Fu exclaimed in amazement, gazing at the ethereal clouds. "It's completely different from the real world." (End of Chapter)