It's not too late to meet in the book

As Su Xiaoxiao, Lin Yu, Li Ming, and Yang Tao prepared to leave the hall, an unusual aura filled the air. In the center of the hall, a soft light emanated from a seemingly ordinary stone pillar, illuminating the entire space. Beneath this light stood a mysterious figure cloaked in robes, his face veiled in shadow—the Guardian.

"Why are you here?" The guardian's voice was low and powerful, as if it could penetrate people's hearts. His eyes swept back and forth over the four people with a scrutinizing look.

The four of them exchanged glances, feeling nervous but also determined. Su Xiaoxiao spoke first, her voice clear and resolute: "Let's find the Gate of Time and Space and unlock the castle's secrets."

The guardian nodded slightly, seemingly unsurprised by their answer. "Prove your worth, and then I'll consider helping you."

As soon as the words fell, several rays of light suddenly illuminated the surroundings of the hall, forming a halo that enveloped the four people. Various illusions gradually emerged from the halo: some were complex mazes, some depicted intense battles, and others were puzzles that required wits to solve.

"This is my test for you." The Guardian's voice sounded again, with unquestionable majesty. "Only by passing this test can you gain my trust."

Faced with the sudden test, the four of them did not panic. Lin Yu quickly observed the illusions around him, his eyes flashing with calmness and analysis, "We will divide the work and cooperate, and each person will be responsible for one test."

Su Xiaoxiao nodded, her eyes fixed on a seemingly simple puzzle. "Let me solve this puzzle. It seems to be related to the history of the castle."

Li Ming chose a battle scene. His muscles were tense and his eyes were shining with fighting spirit. "I will handle this. Fighting is my strong point."

Yang Tao walked towards the maze, his fingers lightly tracing the light patterns in the air, as if searching for a pattern. "Leave the maze to me. I'm confident I can find a way out."

The test officially began, and the four immersed themselves in their own challenges. Su Xiaoxiao faced a complex and ever-changing puzzle, but with her keen observation and knowledge of history, she gradually found clues to the solution. Lin Yu assisted her from the side, offering new ideas from time to time.

Elsewhere, Li Ming engaged in a fierce battle scene with an illusory enemy. His movements were swift and precise, each strike perfectly timed, showcasing his exceptional combat skills. Meanwhile, Yang Tao navigated the maze, his gaze focused and determined, each choice seemingly carefully considered.

As time passed, the four gradually overcame their respective trials. When the last beam of light faded, they reunited in the center of the hall, their faces filled with tired but satisfied smiles.

The guardian watched their performance with a flicker of approval in his eyes. "You did a great job, demonstrating both strength and wisdom."

Su Xiaoxiao wiped the sweat from her forehead and looked at the Guardian with a smile, "So, can we continue looking for the Gate of Time and Space now?"

The Guardian nodded, but his voice remained serious. "Remember, the Gate of Time and Space is extremely powerful. Only those with justice and courage can wield it. Are you ready?"

The four of them looked at each other, conveying a firm belief. Lin Yu straightened his chest and answered in a firm voice: "We are ready. No matter what difficulties lie ahead, we will move forward courageously."

The Guardian looked at them, seeming to sense their determination and conviction. He slowly raised his hand, and a beam of light shot out from his palm, shooting straight towards the ceiling of the hall. As the light dissipated, a hidden passage gradually emerged.

"That's the road leading to the Gate of Time and Space." The Guardian's voice became much softer. "But remember, once you set foot on that road, there's no turning back."

The four of them looked at the hidden passage, their hearts filled with anticipation and nervousness. They knew that this would be the most important adventure of their lives.

"We will, thank you, Guardian." Su Xiaoxiao expressed gratitude to the Guardian on behalf of the four people, her eyes full of determination and courage.

The guardian nodded slightly, and his figure gradually disappeared in the light, as if he had never existed.