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

"Good opportunity!" Zhao Yan shouted, launching another fierce attack. Cass also joined in, and the two of them worked together so well that Feilong was momentarily overwhelmed.

But the dragon soon recovered, its fury intensifying its attacks. It began unleashing fireballs, transforming the cave into a purgatory, the ground crumbling under the constant onslaught. Seeing the situation dire, Lin Xi decided to change his strategy.

She quickly chanted a new spell, and countless tiny, floating points of light appeared in the air. They surrounded the dragon, attempting to disrupt its actions. Although the effect was limited, it bought the team valuable time to adjust their positions and tactical layout.

At this moment, the four of them understood that completely defeating this terrifying creature through sheer force was impossible. They needed to rely on mutual trust and cooperation, and to find the enemy's true weaknesses in order to achieve victory. "We can't drag this out any longer. This won't be good for us," Zhao Yan panted, sweat soaking his clothes.

After observing the roaring and struggling dragon thoughtfully for a while, Cas came up with a plan: "Look there! I think that's where it's most vulnerable."

Upon hearing Cass's words, everyone sprang into action, quickly maneuvering to the optimal angle according to their pre-planned plan. While the dragon was distracted by the annoying light spots, Lin Xi promptly removed the interference magic and signaled Genos. Genos then leaped up, concentrating all his strength on the next attack.

The heavy sword struck down heavily on its target—just as everyone had predicted, that was indeed the dragon's only weak spot. Blood splattered everywhere, and the arrogant being let out a mournful cry before collapsing with a thunderous thud, motionless.

"It's over..." Looking at the huge monster lying on the ground in front of them, everyone breathed a sigh of relief, supported each other and sat down, with a tired but satisfied smile on everyone's face.

After a short rest, Zhao Yan stood up first and said, "Let's go. This isn't a place to stay for long. Who knows what unknowns are waiting for us?"

"Yes," the other three responded. Although their bodies were still tired, their hearts had never been so full. "We must keep moving forward no matter what!"

At this moment, the deep and indifferent voice from before once again echoed in the empty underground space: "Very good, you have demonstrated extraordinary abilities... But remember my words, this is only the beginning."

His tone was filled with warning and anticipation, "The real journey has just begun."

Then, a warm, yet not blinding, light suddenly shone through the darkness and silence, pointing the way for their next step. The four of them looked at each other. Though exhausted, their deep curiosity and desire for adventure intensified. They knew the real challenge was far from over, and countless unknowns and dangers lay ahead.

Zhao Yan was the first to break the silence: "No matter what the future holds, we cannot stop." His words were filled with determination. "We are a team. Nothing can bring us down."

"That's right," Genos agreed, a glint in his eyes. "And I think this is just the beginning of our adventure. There are many more challenges waiting for us to conquer!"

Lin Xi nodded and smiled gently: "Since we have decided to set off, let's move forward bravely." She looked at the crowd and said, "As long as we unite, there will be no difficulties that cannot be overcome."

"Let's go!" Cas said excitedly, his eyes sparkling. "There will definitely be more exciting adventures waiting for us ahead!"

Just like that, the four of them calmed down, stood up again, and walked towards the light that was guiding them forward.

Following the warm and mysterious glow, they soon arrived at an open area. The ground here was much smoother than the previous passage, and the surrounding rock walls emanated a strange yet gentle sheen. In the center of this space stood a stone altar, atop which rested a fist-sized crystal emitting a soft blue light.

When Lin Xi noticed the crystal, she couldn't help but quicken her pace, "Look there!"

The three of them looked up at the sight before them, instantly captivated. They saw the crystal suspended in mid-air, swirling slightly, surrounded by circles of pale blue light, appearing remarkably sacred and beautiful.

"Could this be the source of the power that guided us just now?" Zhao Yan expressed his thoughts in confusion.

Before anyone else could respond, an old but powerful voice suddenly rang out in the air again, "Welcome here, warriors..."

Immediately afterwards, the image of an old man in a white robe emerged from the void. He had his hands behind his back and was looking at the young man in front of him with a kind smile on his face.

The old man's appearance startled everyone, but they quickly regained their composure. Zhao Yan stepped forward and respectfully asked, "Excuse me, who are you...? And why are you here?"

"My name needs no introduction, children," the old man spoke slowly, his words revealing an otherworldly aura. "I was once one of the guardians of this underground palace. Now, I will give you a new mission: to find the legendary Heart of the Elements, which holds the key to maintaining the balance of this world."

"Why choose us?" Genos asked curiously.

"Because fate has already arranged all of this." The old man looked at the four young companions meaningfully, then turned and pointed to a door nearby. "There you will find all the knowledge you need. It will lead you to your destination. But remember: the journey is difficult and full of uncertainties. Not everyone has the ability and courage to complete this task."

"We will try our best, please believe that we will succeed!" Cass made a solemn vow, with fire burning in his eyes.

Lin Xi followed suit, adding, "Yes, please entrust this important task to us! For the sake of peace and the future."

Seeing the four people's determination, the old man showed a satisfied look and nodded, "Very good, then it's time to set off... But before that, there are something I must give you."

As the words fell, several objects appeared out of thin air and floated in front of everyone:

-A short sword with an exquisite and gorgeous appearance and a faintly cold aura;

- a shimmering bracelet woven from rare gemstones;

- A book with no words on the cover but only a few symbols;

-There is also a copper coin that looks ordinary but actually holds a secret;