Courtyard House: Report enemy agents at the start, and you'll take off immediately.

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"Is it over? No, this is far from enough!" The leader laughed wildly, his figure appearing and disappearing in the darkness.

Leah's expression turned grave, and she said urgently, "Zhao De, his power originates from the abyss of darkness. We must find the source and kill him in one blow!"

“I understand.” Zhao De nodded, and the three exchanged a determined look before splitting up to each seek an opportunity for a breakthrough.

Just as everyone was locked in a fierce battle, a warm light pierced through the darkness. It was the villagers outside the valley, holding torches and spontaneously forming a Great Wall of Light, shouting:

"Heroes, hold on! The light will always be with you!"

This unexpected support greatly encouraged Zhao De and his companions, giving them a significant boost in strength. With a deafening roar, Zhao De finally discovered the source of the black-robed man's power—a cursed gem that was gleaming with an ominous light.

"Now!" Zhao De shouted, his figure moving like lightning as he headed straight for the gem.

"Don't even think about it!" the leader of the black-robed men roared, but it was too late.

The gem shattered in Zhao De's hands, and in an instant, all the darkness receded like a tide, and the sun shone brightly on the earth once more.

"No—!" With a desperate cry, the leader of the black-robed men turned into a wisp of green smoke and disappeared into the air.

The valley returned to its former tranquility, and the villagers flocked to it, cheering and jumping for joy, their gratitude and respect overflowing.

"It's incredible! They're practically the embodiment of miracles!"

"Yes, our descendants must also know about heroes like these!"

Amid the cheers of the crowd, Zhao De turned to Lia and Karl, their eyes reflecting both the joy of victory and anticipation for the future.

"Although this challenge is over, the road to the temple is still long. We don't know what we will encounter, but as long as we are together, nothing is impossible."

“Zhao De is right!” Lia’s voice was firm yet gentle. “Every test only makes us stronger. From now on, no matter how many difficulties we face, we will move forward hand in hand.”

"Yes, the power of a team is invincible!" Karl patted his chest, full of pride. "As long as the three of us are together, no matter what demons or monsters or how many difficulties we face, we can overcome them!"

Upon hearing this, the villagers began to discuss it amongst themselves, their faces filled with amazement and admiration.

"Look at them, not only are they incredibly strong, but their confidence and teamwork are simply a match made in heaven!"

"That's right, with people like this, our future is full of hope!"

Just as everyone was immersed in the celebratory atmosphere, a man named Zhao De staggered out from the crowd, his eyes gleaming with wisdom. He slowly approached Zhao De and, with trembling hands, grasped Zhao De's hand.

Chapter 532 Martial Power

Chapter 532 Martial Force

"Warrior, your deeds will be sung, but the road ahead is fraught with peril. The path to the temple conceals ancient trials, which only true heroes can pass. Are you ready?"

Zhao De smiled, his determination unwavering: "Rest assured, senior. To protect the peace of this land, I, Zhao De, am willing to face any unknowns and dangers ahead."

A satisfied smile appeared on Zhao De's face. He gently patted the back of Zhao De's hand, as if conveying some kind of strength and trust.

“Alright, child, go. Remember, true strength comes not only from force, but also from the faith and love in your heart. When you are lost or helpless, they will be your guiding light.”

Just as everyone was immersed in the profound meaning of Zhao De's words, a crack suddenly appeared in the distant sky, and dazzling light shone through, causing everyone to gasp in surprise.

"What... is going on?" Karl rubbed his eyes in surprise.

Leah stared at the crack, her brow furrowed. "It seems to be some kind of summons... Could it be a response from the temple?"

Zhao De squinted at the mysterious rift, a mixture of curiosity and trepidation in his heart. "In any case, we have no choice. Comrades, get ready, a new journey is about to begin."

"We'd be happy to go through fire and water with you!" Karl laughed heartily, clenching his fists.

Leah nodded gently, her eyes filled with determination: "As long as we fight side by side, nothing can stop us."

The three exchanged a smile, then turned and stepped into the unknown rift. Their silhouettes, bathed in the setting sun, appeared exceptionally majestic, like heroes about to step into mythology.

"It's really exciting, their story has only just begun..." a young man murmured to himself, his eyes full of anticipation.

“Yes, perhaps one day our names will be listed alongside these legends,” his friend replied, his tone full of longing.

As Zhao De and his group walked, the rift slowly closed, leaving only a single conversation drifting in the wind:

"No matter what the future holds for us, as long as there is light in our hearts, the darkness will eventually be illuminated."

-

On the other side of the rift lay a strange space, entirely different from the world they knew. It was surrounded by shimmering, iridescent crystal pillars, each radiating powerful energy that inspired awe. In the center of the space floated an ancient stone tablet, inscribed with obscure runes, seemingly silently recounting secrets of the past.

Zhao De, Karl, and Lia exchanged a glance, reaching a silent understanding. They cautiously approached the stone tablet, each step feeling like traversing a thousand years of time.

“This… feels like stepping into another world.” Karl’s voice trembled slightly with amazement.

Leah reached out and gently touched the stone tablet. A warm and ancient energy surged into her body, causing her to involuntarily take a few steps back. "Here lies a great secret, which may also be the answer we are looking for."

Zhao De became even more cautious. He looked around and found that apart from the three of them, there were no other signs of life in the space. "Stay vigilant; unknown places are often accompanied by unknown dangers."

Just then, a deep and authoritative voice resounded in their minds, as if transcending the boundaries of time and space: "Brave travelers, your arrival is no accident. Only those with justice and courage in their hearts can uncover the mysteries of this place."

Chapter 533 Not Afraid of Challenges!

Chapter 533 Not Afraid of Challenges!

The three men exchanged bewildered glances, their surprise beyond words. Zhao De spoke first: "May I ask, who are you...? How can we help restore peace to this land?"

"I am the guardian of this space, and the inheritor of knowledge and wisdom. For a long time, I have been waiting for the brave who can break the ancient curse and rekindle the light of hope. You may be the ones chosen by fate."

Carl rubbed his hands together, his excitement evident: "Then stop talking nonsense and tell us what to do!"

The guardian's voice carried a hint of amusement: "Impatient young people, the answer is not simple. First, you must pass three trials, testing your strength, wisdom, and will. Only by passing them all can you obtain the key to saving this land."

“Three trials? Lead the way, we’re not afraid of challenges!” Leah’s words were full of determination.

With a soft murmur from the guardian, the space shifted once more, and a door silently appeared before them, behind which lay unknown challenges and opportunities.

Just as the three were about to step through the trial gates, a figure rushing towards them caught their attention. It was a young scholar, his face covered in sweat, his eyes gleaming with fervent passion. "Please wait! I want to join you too. To unravel the mysteries of this world, I'm willing to give everything!"

Zhao De glanced at the uninvited guest, a flicker of hesitation crossing his mind. But quickly, he nodded: "Welcome to the team. Let's face the unknown together."

The four stood side by side, gazing at the gate leading to the trial. No words were needed; a tacit understanding quietly grew between them. The scholar introduced himself: "I am Li Wenyuan. I have considerable knowledge of ancient texts, which may prove useful in our adventure."

“Then let’s move forward together, Li Wenyuan.” Karl patted him on the shoulder, his eyes filled with anticipation for the challenges ahead.

The door slowly opened, and a strong gust of wind rushed in, seemingly foreshadowing the hardships of the trial. As the four stepped through the door, the scenery changed abruptly; they found themselves in a desolate desert, scorching under the blazing sun, with waves of heat rolling in, as if the air itself were on fire.

"The first trial, the Fury of the Desert. In this land of death, you will confront your inner fears and desires, and find the water hidden deep within the sea of ​​sand." The guardian's voice echoed in everyone's minds.

Zhao De gripped his sword tightly, his gaze resolute: "Everyone, stay close to me, stay calm, we will find a way out."

As they walked, Karl's complaints could be heard from time to time: "What kind of place is this? Water? I think we'd better roast ourselves into dried meat first!"

Just then, the sand dunes in the distance suddenly surged, and a giant sand worm burst out of the ground, opening its blood-red maw to attack them. Instantly, fear filled everyone's hearts.

"Prepare for battle!" Zhao De roared, leading his men to meet the sudden onslaught of monsters.

The battle was incredibly fierce, with each of the sandworm's attacks accompanied by a powerful tremor. However, thanks to the four's coordinated efforts, they gradually gained the upper hand. Finally, under Leah's precise arrow, the sandworm let out a mournful cry and collapsed to the ground. The sand beneath it slowly caved in, revealing a clear spring.

"Great! We found it!" Li Wenyuan exclaimed in surprise, his eyes shining with hope.

Chapter 534 Water Source in the Heart of the Desert

Chapter 534 Water Source in the Heart of the Desert

The four sat around the spring, savoring the hard-won sweetness. A passing caravan witnessed this scene and exclaimed, "What a miracle! The water source in the heart of the desert, which, according to legend, can only be reached by true warriors! You must be blessed by the gods!"

The second trial followed shortly afterward, transporting them to a maze where wisdom and teamwork became the new test. The maze was filled with intricate passages and deadly traps, requiring them to proceed with extreme caution.

"It seems we need to use our brains." Li Wenyuan rubbed his chin, his eyes gleaming with thought.

After countless attempts and failures, thanks to Li Wenyuan's wisdom and the trust among the team, they finally found the exit of the maze. Behind them came the maze guardian's approving voice: "The light of wisdom and cooperation has illuminated the darkest path."

In their final trial, they arrived at a mental battlefield, confronting their deepest fears and anxieties. Here, there were no swords or spears, yet it was more difficult than any real combat.

"Hold on, this is our final challenge!" Zhao De's voice was firm and powerful, giving his teammates boundless encouragement.

With each other's support and encouragement, they overcame their inner demons one by one, and the guardian's voice rang out again: "Congratulations, you have passed all the trials. Now, you have the power to lift the ancient curse and save this land."

Just as the four were preparing to celebrate their victory, a crack suddenly appeared in the sky, and a dark figure slowly descended, carrying an ominous aura.

"The real battle has only just begun..." the shadowy figure whispered, sending chills down one's spine.

Zhao De gripped the hilt of his sword tightly and looked at his companion: "No matter what lies ahead, we will face it together."

“Well said, Zhao De!” Lia responded, her voice firm and her eyes flashing with unyielding spirit. “Since we have been able to overcome so many difficulties together, what is there to fear from a mere shadowy figure?”

“Yes,” Li Wenyuan added, a confident smile on his lips, “we are known by the caravan as ‘people favored by the gods,’ and this power is not just empty talk.”

A young traveler passing by witnessed this scene and murmured to himself, "Is...is this real? Is this how the legendary heroes I've heard of rose from adversity?"

At that moment, the voice of the labyrinth guardian echoed in the air, carrying a hint of solemnity: "Brave warriors, that shadow is the embodiment of an ancient curse. It attempts to exploit your fear and once again shroud this land. But remember, light can always dispel darkness, as long as the fire in your hearts remains extinguished."

“The Guardian is right,” a gentle yet powerful voice interjected. It was an elderly sage who slowly approached, his eyes revealing the wisdom of age. “I have heard an ancient prophecy that four chosen warriors will join forces to fight against darkness and save the world from its suffering. And now, you are the warriors of the prophecy.”

Upon hearing this, passersby began to discuss it amongst themselves.

"This...isn't this the legendary sage Saruman? His words must be true!"

"It's true! We witnessed a historic moment with our own eyes!"

"It's truly astonishing that these four young people have received such high recognition!"