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

Here stands a colossal altar, covered in dense runes that shimmer with a faint light. These runes seem to possess a life of their own, slowly flowing across the altar's surface, telling ancient and mysterious stories.

Xuanzhenzi stared intently at the altar runes, his brow furrowing slightly. "The arrangement of these runes seems to subtly correspond to some ancient formation. If we can decipher its secrets, we might be able to activate the altar and reveal deeper mysteries."

After examining it closely, Xu Fu said, "Indeed, this is an ancient formation. It bears a striking resemblance to the Thousand Illusions Formation I saw at the temple. However, this formation is far more intricate and complex, likely containing even greater power."

Upon hearing this, Yang Ling's eyes flashed with excitement: "Then could we try activating the altar? Perhaps we'll get some unexpected benefits."

Ying Zheng pondered for a moment, then nodded and said, "It's worth a try, but we must be extremely cautious. The temple harbors unknown powers; if triggered improperly, unforeseen consequences may arise."

Under Ying Zheng's instructions, everyone focused their minds and attempted to activate the altar runes. Based on their understanding of formations, they cast spells one by one, infusing energy into the runes. With their efforts, the altar runes gradually lit up, radiating brilliant light. The entire temple seemed to be awakened by this power, beginning to tremble slightly.

Suddenly, a dazzling beam of light shot into the sky from the center of the altar, piercing the heavens. The intense light blinded everyone, forcing them to raise their arms to shield their eyes. As the light gradually dissipated, they opened their eyes and were immediately stunned by the sight before them.

A massive portal of light appeared at the center of the altar, its interior revealing ever-changing scenes, seemingly connecting to some mysterious world. Intense energy fluctuations permeated the area around the portal, sending chills down one's spine.

"Where does this gateway lead?" Li Si asked in surprise, his voice trembling slightly.

Ying Zheng was also shocked, but quickly regained his composure and stepped forward to carefully examine the portal. He saw the scenery within shifting and changing, sometimes displaying mountains and rivers, sometimes revealing vast starry seas, as if containing endless mysteries. "If I'm not mistaken," he said, "this portal should be a passage to other dimensions. Every world may be full of unknown dangers, but it also contains infinite opportunities."

Upon hearing this, everyone was filled with astonishment and curiosity. They had never imagined that such a mysterious portal, leading to an unknown world, was hidden within this temple.

"Are we really going in?" Yang Ling hesitated slightly. The unknown always makes people uneasy, but he was also filled with longing for another world. It was the innate human desire to explore that drove them forward.

Ying Zheng turned around, his gaze resolute as he looked at his companions: "Have we endured countless hardships precisely to seek greater power and uncover the mysteries of the world? Now that this gateway to the unknown is before us, how can we give up because of a little fear?"

These words dispelled the confusion in everyone's hearts. They looked at each other and saw determination in each other's eyes. Yes, they had traveled through mountains and rivers, endured many trials, and finally arrived here; how could they give up so easily?

"In that case, let us go together! Whatever fortune or misfortune lies ahead, we will face it together!" Xu Fu took a deep breath and said loudly. His words were full of firm courage, as if infusing everyone with powerful strength.

Led by Ying Zheng, they clasped hands and steadily walked towards the mysterious portal of light. The instant their bodies passed through the portal, a powerful force instantly enveloped them, as if to tear them apart. But they gritted their teeth and fought back against this overwhelming force. After a brief period of painful struggle, they successfully passed through the portal and arrived in another wondrous world.

Beyond the portal lay a magnificent and colorful world. Vibrant clouds drifted across the sky, occasionally punctuated by a shower of colorful rain. The plants on the ground were enormous, each leaf like a dewdrop studded with jewels, shimmering with iridescent light. A strange fragrance permeated the air, invigorating the senses. "This place is truly breathtaking!" Yang Ling, walking at the front of the group, couldn't help but exclaim in admiration. His gaze swept across the scene, wanting to take in all its beauty. The others echoed his wonder, filled with curiosity and a desire to explore this extraordinary world. They strolled here, experiencing its beauty and mystery, their hearts brimming with endless reverie.

During their exploration, they encountered many strange creatures and plants. Some creatures had bizarre shapes, with strange bodies and facial features; some plants could make pleasant sounds or emit enchanting fragrances. These strange beings amazed them and strengthened their determination to explore this world.

Furthermore, they encountered numerous difficulties and challenges in this world. Some areas were shrouded in poisonous fog or covered with sharp thorns; some creatures were hostile and attempted to attack them. But through mutual trust and cooperation, as well as their extraordinary strength and wisdom, they successfully overcame these dangers and continued their journey.

After some exploration, they arrived at the foot of a majestic mountain. A magnificent palace stood atop the peak, surrounded by clouds and mist, with glittering golden light faintly visible, seemingly concealing a great secret.

“Let’s go explore that palace.” Ying Zheng pointed to the palace on the summit, his eyes gleaming with a spirit of exploration.

With everyone's support, they resolved to climb this majestic mountain. The terrain was steep, seemingly piercing the clouds, and every step was fraught with challenge. But with unwavering faith, they supported each other and overcame the difficulties together.

Along the way, they encountered countless obstacles: cliffs, thorny thickets, and ferocious beasts lurking in the shadows. But each time, they relied on the strength and wisdom of their team to successfully overcome the obstacles and continue their journey.

After a long and arduous journey, they finally reached the summit, where a magnificent palace came into view. Bathed in sunlight, the palace shone brilliantly, resembling a fairyland from mythology. Two lifelike stone beasts stood guard at the entrance, their piercing eyes protecting the palace with imposing grandeur.

Ying Zheng stepped forward and pushed open the palace gates. As the gates slowly opened, the palace interior was gradually revealed. The interior was even more magnificent, with the floor paved with gold bricks, each meticulously polished to a mirror shine. The walls were adorned with precious paintings and decorations, all masterpieces. In the center of the palace stood a colossal throne. The throne was tall and solemn, carved with intricate patterns and runes, as if it held endless mysteries.

Just as they were preparing to explore further, a figure suddenly emerged from the shadow of the throne. This person was dressed in a magnificent robe, wore a tall crown, had a dignified face, and an extraordinary bearing; he was clearly no ordinary person.

"Who are you, daring to trespass into my palace?" the man asked in a deep voice, his tone carrying an unquestionable authority.

Ying Zheng stepped forward and bowed respectfully, "We are travelers from afar, who came out of curiosity to explore. We have absolutely no intention of offending you, and we humbly request your understanding."

The man scrutinized them carefully, a flicker of surprise crossing his eyes. "Since you were able to break into my palace, you must possess some skill. I am the ruler of this realm; what do you demand?"

Ying Zheng pondered for a moment, then said, "We stumbled upon this place while exploring the mysteries of the world. We hope to learn about this realm and find clues to its powerful forces." (End of Chapter)