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

The eldest prince leaned over and patted the little fellow's head with a smile. He replied, "We will try our best, but we will definitely encounter various difficulties and challenges along the way. So, if you want to become stronger, you must practice hard!"

The next morning, as the dawn broke in the east, the improvised team set out on a new journey to their next destination. Along the way, the scenery gradually changed from barren to verdant mountains and clear waters. Passersby stopped to watch, pointing and discussing:

"Look, there are new faces joining us!"

"Wow, these knights are so handsome!"

"I wonder what will happen next? I really hope I can go on an adventure with you~"

As time passed, the group finally stopped at the entrance of a seemingly secluded and quiet valley. Just as everyone was about to enter and continue exploring, a white dove suddenly fluttered its wings and landed on Shen Wenbo's shoulder, handing him a letter. After reading it, he spoke with a slightly solemn expression, revealing a piece of news that shocked everyone...

"Attention everyone! Reliable information indicates that there may be a long-hidden secret cave ahead of us. It contains not only precious treasures but also numerous dangerous traps."

"But...it's said this cave was once occupied and controlled by an evil spirit for a century...only recently driven out by an unknown force..." Shen Wenbo's words were like a bolt from the blue, making everyone present's hearts leap. The originally relaxed atmosphere was suddenly shrouded in tension and unease.

"Evil spirits? And expelling unknown forces..." The eldest prince frowned, "This doesn't sound very simple."

Yun Fei also nodded, his expression becoming particularly serious: "Then should we be more cautious?"

Xiao Jie, in Liu Qingcheng's arms, seemed to sense his mother's change of mood and shifted uneasily. Liu Qingcheng gently comforted him, but her gaze turned to Shen Wenbo: "Since it is so dangerous, I wonder what specific plans you have? What preparations do we need to make?"

Shen Wenbo pondered for a moment and then said, "The cave is indeed full of dangers, but I believe we can handle it with our strength. I will send some capable men with us, and bring enough tools, food, and water for emergencies."

He then turned and gave instructions to his followers, arranging several veterans proficient in mechanical engineering as essential support for this exploration operation. He then assigned two other warriors with strong martial arts skills and extraordinary wit to take charge of security and vigilance in front and behind.

The group finally set out again, following a narrow, winding path deeper into the valley. Surrounded by dense trees, sunlight filtered through the leaves, creating patches of light. Occasionally, the sound of a gurgling stream and the chirping of birds and animals could be heard, creating a natural melody.

Just when they were taking a break halfway, a group of villagers who happened to be passing by to collect herbs discovered this group of mysterious people. A brave man among them took the initiative to step forward and talk to them: "Hey, are you travelers from outside the area? It looks like you are going to visit the legendary treasure cave." His tone was both curious and a little envious.

Li Qingyue nodded in a friendly manner and replied, "Exactly. I wonder how much you know about that place? If you have any clues to share, that would be great!"

"Oh my god!" the villager exclaimed, eyes wide with surprise. "I've heard so many stories about this place from the elders! They say there are mountains of gold and silver treasures inside, but few dare to venture there. As for the specific path... you just have to go through this dense forest and make a few circles before you reach the entrance."

Another younger young man interrupted immediately: "But the most terrifying thing is that it is said that there is a man-eating monster living in the cave! No one who went in has ever come back alive..." He shuddered as he spoke, obviously full of awe and fear.

Yun Fei smiled faintly, patted the young man's shoulder encouragingly, and said soothingly, "Don't be afraid, don't be afraid. We have so many masters by our side. How can a mere legend scare warriors like us? Don't worry, we promise to return safely!"

These words immediately reassured the timid children around them, and they looked at the brave team in front of them who were about to face an unknown and dangerous journey with a gleam of admiration and respect in their eyes.

As the last ray of sunlight faded below the horizon, the entire valley was completely shrouded in darkness. The expedition team had successfully found the entrance to a secret passage hidden behind a massive stone gate, though what lay ahead might be unprecedented challenges...

Shen Wenbo took out a torch, lit it, and led everyone cautiously into the darkness. After walking for a while, he suddenly stopped and listened. Then he slowly turned back and whispered to the group, "It seems like there's a strange sound coming... Please remain alert." With that, he continued forward, but the vague unease in his heart grew stronger and stronger. Following Shen Wenbo's footsteps, everyone held their breath, not daring to neglect even the slightest bit. In the dim cave, only the faint but warm light of the torch illuminated the way ahead, accompanied by the sound of dripping water echoing against the walls and the occasional low roar. The sound seemed to be approaching from a distance, giving people a chill.

Just as the group was about to round a rocky corner, a massive bat suddenly flew out from the shadows and nearly hit Liu Qingcheng, who was walking at the end. Xiaojie burst into tears, clinging tightly to his mother's clothes. Liu Qingcheng gently patted his back and soothed him, "It's okay, baby. Mommy's here."

"It's truly eerie here. I wonder what surprises await us down the road." Li Qingyue teased, trying to lighten the mood, alert to any disturbances. "Maybe we'll even encounter a few legendary monsters. Don't be too timid, everyone!"

As soon as the words fell, a chaotic cacophony of footsteps and rough voices could be heard from a distance. Several people immediately stopped and hid behind a stone pillar, waiting to see what would happen. Soon, a group of people wearing strange clothes and holding sharp blades appeared within sight. They were covered in dust and blood, and it looked like they had been through a fierce battle.

A short, stocky, yet intimidating man stood at the front, directing the entire group. "Brothers, keep going! We're not far from the treasure!" He turned back and encouraged the others behind him. "Once we find the legendary secret entrance, we'll plunder all the treasures here. Anyone who dares to stand against me will be fed to the wild beasts!" His words immediately drew laughter, clearly demonstrating their confidence in success.