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

Ying Zheng stepped forward and bowed respectfully: "So you are the Poet Immortal, I have long admired your name. We are cultivators from the Great Qin, and have come to seek wisdom at a higher level."

The Poet Immortal smiled slightly, waved for everyone to sit down, and slowly said, "Having traveled this far, you have already experienced many trials. But true cultivation lies not only in exploring the external world, but also in understanding the inner world within."
Li Si eagerly asked, "Senior, how can we gain insight into our own inner world?"

The poet nodded, took out a crystal bead from his robe, and handed it to Li Si: "This is the Spirit Heart Bead, which can reflect the true thoughts deep in the heart of the holder. Each person holds it, silently asks a question in their heart, and the Spirit Heart Bead will give the answer."

Ziya took the bead, pondering the question. Suddenly, a series of images appeared before his eyes—his past choices and possible future paths. He stared intently at them, then handed the bead to Xu Fu beside him.

The Spirit Heart Pearl in Xu Fu's hand reflected the various wondrous machines and potions he might create in the future, all related to the Heavenly Mystery Grass. He felt a surge of excitement, and then passed the pearl to Yang Ling.

Yang Ling accepted the bead, his mind preoccupied with his own lust for power. Yet, the image within the bead depicted him relinquishing his authority and dedicating himself to educating the younger generation. This prompted Yang Ling to deeply reflect on his true desire: for recognition and respect, not just for power itself.

Ying Zheng finally accepted the Spirit Heart Pearl, pondering how to unify the world. The pearl revealed a peaceful and prosperous kingdom, free from war, where people lived in contentment. Deeply moved, Ying Zheng realized that what he truly sought was not conquest, but the long-term stability and security of the nation.

Seeing that everyone had gained something, the Poet Immortal said, "The Spirit Heart Pearl is merely a tool. The true answer will require you to explore it slowly in your future cultivation. Remember, no matter how powerful the external forces are, without a peaceful mind, nothing can be achieved."

Everyone expressed their gratitude, and the poet then guided them to a stone door at the back of the cave: "Beyond this door lies the path to the deeper parts of Mount Ling. Only those whose hearts are truly purified can open this door."

Ying Zheng rose, walked to the stone door, and placed his palm on it. The runes on the door began to glow, but the door remained closed. Ying Zheng turned to look at the poet, puzzled, and asked, "Why can't I open this door?"

The poet smiled and replied, "Everyone's spiritual journey is different, and Your Majesty's spiritual journey is not yet over. When you truly understand the meaning of peace and prosperity, you will naturally be able to open this door."

Ying Zheng nodded silently, indicating his understanding. He turned to the crowd and said, "It seems that each of us still has a long way to go in our cultivation journey. We should continue on our way, seeking more wisdom and power."

After everyone agreed, they bid farewell to the poet and continued their journey into the unknown depths. Along their path, the mountain breeze accompanied the faint light, and from the clouds and mist, the cries of mythical beasts could be heard from time to time. The mountain scenery was ever-changing, and every step was full of new challenges and revelations.

As they walked, they came to a seemingly ordinary clearing in the woods, but the patterns on the ground echoed the stars in the sky, forming a huge star array. Ziya pointed to the ground and said, "This is an ancient star array, through which one can observe the subtle connections between heaven and earth."

Li Si said excitedly, "Why don't we try to use the Star Array to gain a deeper understanding of the world?"

So everyone stood at their designated positions within the formation and closed their eyes to sense it. The Star Array slowly activated, and the starlight in the sky echoed the patterns on the array, forming magnificent celestial paintings.

Within the Star Formation, everyone's soul underwent an unprecedented shock and elevation. Ying Zheng was the first to rise from the formation, his eyes growing ever more profound, as if he could see through everything in the world.

"Within this star array, I feel as if I have established some kind of connection with the power of heaven and earth, and I have felt the vastness of the Great Dao," Ying Zheng said with emotion.

Yang Ling followed closely behind, his expression slightly surprised: "Your Majesty, within the formation, I saw my past self and a possible future. This made me realize that my true role is not only that of a strategist, but also that of a guardian." Xu Fu also seemed to have some insights. He stroked the herbs in his hand and said softly, "The Star Formation allowed me to see the mysterious connection between the Heavenly Mystery Grass and the heavens and earth. This can not only help us foresee the future, but may also reveal how to better utilize the power of heaven and earth."

Li Si and Ziya then discussed their feelings: "Brother Ziya, this Star Array not only enhanced my understanding, but also gave me a sense of peace and clarity that I had never experienced before."

Ziya nodded in agreement: "Indeed, Brother Li Si, I feel that I am becoming more determined with every step I take. We must continue to move forward and explore more unknowns, which will greatly benefit our cultivation."

After their experience within the Star Array concluded, the group continued their journey along the mountain range. Along their journey, they encountered various strange sights and challenges. They witnessed waterfalls cascading from the sky, rivers as clear as crystal, and islands suspended in mid-air.

Suddenly, a bolt of lightning ripped across the sky, followed by the appearance of a gigantic dragon, which coiled in the air, its eyes gleaming with wisdom.

"Welcome, heroes of the mortal realm." Tianlong's voice resounded through the heavens, yet reached the hearts of all.

Ying Zheng raised his head and bowed to Tianlong: "Senior Tianlong, we are grateful for your appearance. May we ask what guidance you have?"

Tianlong slowly surveyed everyone, his gaze finally settling on Ying Zheng: "You have traversed countless mountains and rivers to arrive here. I will grant you an opportunity to enter the Tianlong Cave, where an ancient dragon pearl is hidden, which can help you understand the power of heaven and earth."

Upon hearing this, everyone became excited. Xu Fu quickly stepped forward: "Senior Tianlong, may I ask how we can enter Tianlong Cave?"

Tianlong smiled slightly: "Each of you must pass a trial, which will test your courage and wisdom."

Yang Ling asked, "What is the content of this trial? How should we prepare?"

"The trial is quite simple; you will face your greatest fear. Only by truly confronting and overcoming that fear can you gain the qualification to enter the Heavenly Dragon Cave." Heavenly Dragon's voice echoed in everyone's hearts.

Guided by Tianlong, the group arrived at a mysterious cave entrance, before which stood a portal formed by light and shadow. Each person had to enter alone and face their own trial.

First came Ying Zheng, who stepped through the gate and disappeared into the light and shadow. Shortly after, he emerged from the gate, his expression solemn yet filled with relief: "I have faced my long-standing fear—defeat. But I have come to realize that true failure is not encountering setbacks, but giving up the pursuit."

Following this, Li Si, Xu Fu, Jiang Ziya, and Yang Ling also underwent their respective trials. Each of them gained profound insights and growth during these trials.

After passing the trial, the entrance to the Heavenly Dragon Cave slowly opened, and a dazzling light shone from within, illuminating their faces. Working together, they stepped into the light, about to embark on a new journey to explore even deeper mysteries of heaven and earth. (End of Chapter)