I am the Holy Poisoner, the Empress advised me to calm down

After hearing the proposal, everyone looked at each other and nodded in agreement. "That's great! This way, the chances of success are much greater," Zhao Yan said with a smile.

In the days that followed, the group assisted each other in their progress, solving one puzzle after another. Each time they solved a puzzle, they discovered more incredible things. For example, one time they encountered an ancient elf cursed for thousands of years, yet still alive. The elf told them that only wisdom and courage could break the seal. Another time, they had to face their deepest fears...

Whenever we complete a task or encounter an unexpected challenge, there are always a few onlookers who marvel at us:

"Wow, these guys are amazing! They're like modern heroes!"

"You're absolutely right. I really hope that one day I can be someone worthy of admiration in the eyes of others like them."

However, when the four finally found the mysterious crown, they were surprised to discover that, besides the ornate ornaments, there was actually a person hidden inside. A frail-looking yet still dignified man sat in a chair, as if he had been waiting for a long time. "Welcome here... I have waited a long, long time. I hope you can shoulder this burden..."

"What is going on? Who are you?" Lin Xi broke the silence first and asked.

The man slowly opened his eyes and looked at the young explorers. "I am the true master of this ruin... and the last human to guard its secrets." With that, his body suddenly transformed into a ball of light and vanished. At the same moment, all the hidden power within the dungeon was unleashed!

The entire space shook with a deafening roar. Everyone hurriedly searched for an exit. "Let's go! This place is going to collapse soon!" Zhao Yan anxiously called out to his teammates.

Just when they thought they were about to escape danger, they discovered that the huge black shadow they had seen before had reappeared near the cave entrance and roared at them: "Don't even think about getting away like this!"

At this moment, everyone's heartbeats accelerated. "What should we do?" Ferrens said in despair. "Now even the road is blocked..."

At this moment, Zhao Yan looked around at his friends with a determined look, then smiled. "Since we can't avoid the challenge, then face it bravely! We will definitely make it through!"

With those words, the group set out again in the afterglow of the setting sun... "We'll definitely make it through!" Zhao Yan's words were like a resounding drumbeat, hammering through everyone's hearts. His words were filled with unquestionable determination and strength, as if his mere words could dissolve all obstacles.

"You're right, Boss," Genos responded first, tightening his grip on the sword. "We can do this. As long as we unite as one, no difficulty can stop us."

Lin Xi beside her also nodded slightly, her eyes bright and resolute: "Yes, now that we have come this far, there is no reason to give up. We will definitely be able to solve this secret!"

"Hmph, although this situation is indeed a bit tricky, as long as you're here, Zhao Yan, I don't think there's anything to be afraid of." Cass patted Zhao Yan's shoulder with a barely perceptible smile on his face. Although he was always a bit taciturn, he always showed immense trust and support at critical moments.

Suddenly, a burst of hurried footsteps came from a distance, followed by several nervous and anxious voices, "Look, there's movement over there! Those people seem to be in trouble!"

A young explorer rushed forward and saw a man in leather armor pointing in the direction of Zhao Yan and the others. "Did you see that? They actually dared to confront that black shadow! How audacious! But they seem... to have some real skills."

"Yeah," an older man nearby echoed, his eyes revealing unconcealed curiosity and admiration. "These young people are truly impressive. I wonder if there's something special about them that makes them so brave."

Meanwhile, under Zhao Yan's leadership, the team had already begun a fierce confrontation with the massive black shadow. Each attack stirred up a powerful wave, and the air was filled with a suffocating pressure. But Zhao Yan and his men didn't retreat a single step, instead resisting each attack with even greater tenacity.

"Wow, this is amazing! Where does this guy come from? How can he compete with such a monster?" Another adventurer exclaimed, his expression showing shock and a bit of disbelief.

"Shh...keep your voice down," a woman nearby gently warned, "Don't disturb them fighting. Can't you see? They're completely focused."

"Oh, sorry, sorry!" The adventurer apologized hurriedly, but his eyes were still fixed on the battlefield and he refused to move away.

Just as everyone waited with bated breath, Ferens suddenly raised his staff and chanted an ancient spell. As the last word fell, a dazzling light suddenly burst out, instantly dispelling some of the darkness...

"What a powerful light magic!" The crowd exclaimed in admiration. "This young man is so young, yet he possesses such strength. His future is limitless!"

Encouraged, Cass seized the opportunity and launched a fierce attack. His sword pierced the monster's hard shell like lightning, causing considerable damage. "Looks like I'll have to clean up the mess!" he said with a confident smile.

As the situation gradually became clearer, Zhao Yan stumbled upon a hidden trap in a corner. He knew it might be the key to victory. So he whispered to his teammates, "Are you ready for the final sprint? The real test may just be beginning..."

"No matter what happens, we will stand by you," Lin Xi said firmly, "until the end."

Just as they were about to act, a low roar suddenly emanated from deep within the dungeon. "Oh no, there's something else here!" Cas immediately became alert, his eyes scanning the surroundings warily.

"It's okay," Zhao Yan comforted everyone, "Everything will be fine. Let's keep moving forward, and believe that victory is just around the corner."

"Yes," Genos nodded in agreement, "As long as we are here, there is no obstacle that cannot be overcome."

Just as the four were about to follow their newly discovered clues, a seemingly experienced hunter suddenly appeared and stopped in front of them. "The place you are going is very dangerous," he said solemnly, "but if you truly want to solve all the mysteries, then this path is the only choice."

"We will proceed with caution," Zhao Yan looked at the other party gratefully. "Thank you for your reminder, my friend."

"You're welcome," the old hunter said with a smile, "I wish you good luck." Then he turned and left.

"What should we do next?" Lin Xi looked at Zhao Yan and asked, her eyes full of trust and expectation.

"Let's go," Zhao Yan said after taking a deep breath, "Let all this end. No matter what awaits us—light or darkness—we will not retreat."

As their footsteps faded away, the old hunter's last words of encouragement came from behind: "Go, brave children, and may the God of Destiny bless you."

And just ahead, more unknown challenges are quietly waiting for this group of fearless young people. The story is far from over, their journey has just begun...