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

This proposal was unanimously agreed by the other companions. They decided to temporarily put aside their differences and work together. As they got to know each other better, they discovered that this group was also seeking a way to resist the impending dark forces. This realization further strengthened everyone's resolve to solve the mystery as soon as possible.

As the sun rose again, everyone arrived at the edge of an ancient and magnificent city. Not only did this place hold many unsolved mysteries waiting to be discovered, but it was also said to harbor valuable knowledge. Just then, a seemingly young girl burst out from a nearby alley and blocked everyone's path. "Hey, hey, hey~ You guys look impressive, can you tell me why you're here?"

Being asked about his purpose by such a child was a bit awkward, but thankfully Leon was quick to explain. The little girl's eyes lit up after hearing the story and she said, "Oh, I know a little bit about that! But getting into the city isn't easy; you have to pass several tests."

Having been mentally prepared for this setup, the crowd didn't show much surprise or frustration. Instead, they were eager to take on the challenge. "Excuse me, miss, do you know where the entrance is?" Aidan asked politely.

"Hmm~ The entrance is in front of the gate not far away~ But to enter you have to defeat the guardian beast first!" As she spoke, she pointed to the majestic gate in the distance.

Everyone was filled with excitement and anticipation. After intense discussion, a detailed plan was finally formulated and immediately put into action. Despite encountering numerous obstacles along the way, they overcame them one by one through collective wisdom and courage, ultimately reaching the gate. Just as everyone was about to launch their attack, the gate slowly opened, and a figure in a black robe emerged...

"Welcome all friends who have come from afar. I am the true master of this city. The answers you are looking for are hidden within, but only those with true light in their hearts can reach them." He said lightly, with a complex look in his eyes.

Everyone looked at each other, feeling both nervous and excited. "In that case, let's prove our qualifications," Aidan said first, his tone full of determination.

The mysterious black-robed man nodded gently in agreement. "Then please follow me. The journey has just begun..." With his command, the massive city gate slowly opened, revealing the entrance to an unknown world. Aidan led the team slowly inside, feeling both anticipation and nervousness. Leon stood close beside him, his eyes gleaming with an unyielding glint, as if telling the world, "We will not lose!" Mireya smiled faintly and scanned the area with her intelligent gaze, as if silently planning her next strategy.

"Wow! What amazing brothers and sisters! They even respect the guardians here!" The little girl jumped for joy, clearly filled with curiosity about this adventure. The villagers nearby also began to murmur, their eyes filled with not only admiration but also curiosity and a touch of fear about the unknown. "What kind of place is this? Why do we have to pass a test to enter?" someone asked softly, a hint of nervousness in their voice.

Just as everyone was discussing, a loud and clear voice suddenly rang out from nearby: "Everyone, are you ready? The first level is about to begin!" Everyone turned to look and saw that the speaker was a man who looked like a squad leader. He was agile and clearly a professionally trained warrior. "We are one of the guards here, responsible for protecting this city from outsiders. Only those who pass our test will be qualified to see the true treasure."

"So, what's your name?" Aidan asked politely, secretly assessing the other man's abilities. He smiled brightly and replied, "My name is Kyle. I've been here for over a decade and have seen many who attempt to enter. But few truly pass all the challenges." As soon as he finished speaking, a sigh echoed around him. "Looks like we're in big trouble this time..." muttered a timid young villager, who was immediately patted on the shoulder by his companions, offering encouragement.

"No matter what, now that we're here, we must complete our mission, right?" Mireya said resolutely, her courage inspiring the others. And so, led by Kyle, the entire team headed towards their first test—a maze of countless phantoms. "Here, you will face your deepest fears. Only by overcoming them can you successfully escape this realm." Kyle's words before leaving, instantly filling the air with a sense of solemnity.

The maze's interior was as unpredictable and eerie as the rumors had suggested. Every turn revealed a different scene: sometimes a terrifying replay of a childhood experience, or perhaps a formidable future predicament... But despite the unpredictable circumstances, Aidan remained clear-headed, using his unique strength to guide his teammates forward. "As long as we unite, there's nothing we can't overcome," Aidan reassured them, searching for the right direction.

Time passed, and finally, after countless trials, the group stood at the end of the maze. At that moment, everyone felt an unprecedented sense of accomplishment. Just as everyone was immersed in the joy of victory, Kyle returned. "Congratulations, you've passed the first level! But remember, the real test has just begun." He pointed to the even more magnificent gate not far ahead...

"What is hidden behind this door?" Leon couldn't help but ask, his eyes revealing a strong curiosity about the unknown world.

"You'll know the answer soon," Kyle replied with a smile, a hint of mystery in his eyes. At that moment, everyone present clearly realized that this journey had only just begun. As everyone gazed at the even more magnificent gate, a bystander couldn't help but mutter, "Oh my god, they really did it... I heard that even the smartest person in our village only got halfway through this maze!"

Another young villager standing nearby nodded in agreement, "Yes, I heard that there are many terrifying illusions hidden there that can make even brave hunters lose their way."

Hearing these words, Mireya smiled slightly and cast a gentle look at the villagers around her. "Thank you all for your concern and support. The road ahead is still long, but as long as we work together, there is nothing we can't overcome."