Courtyard House: Report enemy agents at the start, and you'll take off immediately.

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"It seems tonight won't be peaceful," the traveler said calmly, his gaze unusually composed.

"No matter what it is, if it threatens us, I will never show mercy." Zhao De's tone was firm, and his eyes burned with the flames of battle.

With a deafening roar, an inexplicable force blasted a hole in the wall of the hut. A gigantic monster covered in strange scales burst in, its eyes burning like torches and radiating an ominous aura.

Faced with such a terrifying presence, the young man cowered in a corner, while Zhao De and the traveler stood back to back, showing no sign of retreat.

"Is this our trial?" Zhao De murmured, the sword in his hand gleaming coldly in the firelight.

The traveler smiled slightly, and a dagger emitting a faint glow appeared in his hand. "Come on, let's see if this ancient relic can help us overcome our difficulties."

A battle was about to erupt, and the hut was filled with the glint of swords and the roar of gunfire. A passerby caught a glimpse of two warriors locked in fierce combat with a monster and couldn't help but gasp in amazement.

"These two are truly unbelievable!"

"Lord Zhao De is actually this powerful!"

"That traveler is even more mysterious and unpredictable. Just who is he?"

The battle ended in the monster's defeat, and as the first rays of dawn bathed the earth once more, only ruins remained around the hut. Zhao De and the traveler stood side by side in the morning light, their bodies covered in wounds, but their eyes gleaming with the light of victory.

"This is just the beginning; even greater challenges await us ahead." The traveler gazed into the distance, his eyes filled with both anticipation and worry.

Zhao De nodded, took a deep breath, and looked at the traveler, "No matter what lies ahead, with you by my side, I have nothing to fear."

Just as the two were preparing to continue their journey, a well-equipped troop slowly approached from the distant mountain path. The soldiers in the troop wore uniform armor, their banners fluttering, exuding an imposing aura; they were clearly the regular army of some faction. Leading them was a middle-aged general, riding a tall warhorse, his eyes sharp as an eagle's.

"Zhao De! Traveler!" the general called out from afar. As the group drew near, he dismounted and strode quickly to the two men, his expression complex. "I never expected to meet you here. I am Zhao De, ordered by the royal city to lead this expedition to explore the secrets of the ancient ruins."

Chapter 435 An Unknown Adventure

Chapter 435 An Unknown Adventure

Zhao De was slightly surprised and cupped his hands, saying, "So it's General Li. We're here for the same purpose. But judging from your demeanor, it seems you've come prepared."

“Not bad.” Zhao De nodded, glancing around at the ruins, his brow furrowing slightly. “According to reliable sources, the ruins contain powerful treasures, but they are also fraught with unknown dangers. The royal city hopes we can cooperate to uncover the secrets of the ruins.”

The traveler gently stroked the dagger in his hand and said calmly, "If we can help each other, that would be best. However, the things in these ruins are probably beyond our control."

Zhao De laughed and said, "With General Li's men assisting us, our chances of victory have greatly increased. But there's one thing I need to make clear beforehand: we're searching for treasure for our own purposes, not to serve anyone else."

Zhao De smiled knowingly and replied cheerfully, "Of course, I respect your choice. Now, let's embark on this unknown adventure together!"

Thus, Zhao De, the traveler, and Zhao De's group formed a temporary alliance and continued their journey into the unknown. Along the way, they encountered even more strange sights: dazzling illusions that made them lose their way; ancient traps and mechanisms that tested the wisdom and courage of each person.

Once, as the group was crossing what appeared to be an ordinary woodland, suddenly the ground trembled, the trees twisted, and it seemed as if the whole world was shaking. The passersby scattered in panic, discussing the situation amongst themselves.

"My God, what kind of witchcraft is this?"

"Zhao De and his men are likely to perish here!"

However, at this critical moment, Zhao De and the Traveler displayed extraordinary teamwork and strength. Zhao De swung his sword to sever the unstable elements in space, while the Traveler used his dagger to guide the power of nature, quelling this sudden anomaly.

After the strange phenomenon dissipated, a deathly silence fell over the surroundings, broken only by the heavy breathing of the crowd. Zhao De stared at the two men, his eyes filled with awe: "I can't believe it, such power... who exactly are you..."

The traveler shook his head slightly and smiled mysteriously: "Everyone has their own secrets, don't they? The important thing is that we are still alive, and we are closer to the truth."

As they ventured deeper, they finally reached the core area of ​​the ancient ruins, where secrets capable of changing the world lay hidden. However, at that very moment, an even more powerful enemy appeared—an ancient guardian long forgotten, protecting the ruins and forbidding any outsiders from touching its secrets.

Faced with this final challenge, can Zhao De, the traveler, and Zhao De's team work together to overcome the obstacle and find the true treasure?

"Are you ready, Zhao De?" The traveler looked at Zhao De, his eyes filled with both determination and a hint of barely perceptible worry.

Zhao De responded with a confident smile, the tip of his sword lightly tapping the ground with a crisp sound. "From the very beginning, I had no intention of turning back. No matter what difficulties lie ahead, as long as our three forces unite, what can stop us?"

Zhao De gripped his spear tightly, his fighting spirit blazing. "I, Zhao De, have fought countless battles and have never feared any challenge. Today, let us write a new legend together!"

At that moment, a deep and distant roar came from the depths of the ruins, as if in response to their declaration, and the surrounding air vibrated, revealing an ominous aura.

Chapter 436 Whether it's a dragon or a worm, a test will tell!

Chapter 436 Whether it's a dragon or a worm, a test will tell!

Several members of the caravan who happened to be passing by witnessed this scene and involuntarily stopped in their tracks, their faces showing shock.

"Was that... the roar of the Guardian? The legendary being actually exists!"

"Zhao De and his group actually dared to challenge such an existence? Are they brave and fearless, or are they simply ignorant of their own limitations?"

"Hmph, just wait and see, whether it's a dragon or a worm, we'll find out soon enough!"

Despite the outside world's discussions, Zhao De and his two companions remained unmoved. They exchanged a glance, a silent trust and resolve. They knew the real battle was about to begin, and victory would decide everything.

Zhao De took the lead, his steps firm and powerful. "Let's go, it's time to unravel all the mysteries. No matter what lies ahead, with you all by my side, I have nothing to fear."

The traveler followed nimbly, his dagger gleaming faintly, as if even nature itself was responding to his call. "Remember, behind every secret lies the power to change destiny. We've come this far; we cannot stop here."

Zhao De followed closely behind, leading his elite troops, their eyes burning with the same fighting spirit. "Whether it's gods or demons ahead, with us here, no obstacle is insurmountable!"

The three stepped into the core area side by side, where they were greeted by a magnificent and mysterious scene. Ancient runes surrounded the area, and in the center stood a colossal statue—the true form of the ancient guardian. It slowly opened its eyes, like two burning suns, gazing at the uninvited guests before it.

"Insignificant creatures, daring to invade this land, prepare to suffer eternal punishment!" The guardian's voice boomed like thunder, making everyone's eardrums ache.

Zhao De looked up at the guardian without fear. His voice, though not loud, was unusually firm: "We are not here to invade, but to seek the truth. The forgotten history and the sealed power must be unlocked. If that is your duty, then let us see if you are qualified to protect all of this."

The traveler smiled slightly, his dagger flashing lightly. The surrounding elements seemed to respond to his call, the wind rising and the clouds churning. "Guardian, times change, and everything has its time. Perhaps it is time for you to witness a new chapter."

Zhao De waved to signal the elite troops to remain vigilant, then slowly stepped forward, his eyes gleaming: "Strength is meant to protect what is important, not to create endless confinement. Today, let us prove that courage and wisdom are enough to transcend ancient shackles."

For a moment, the caravan members and passersby around were talking about it, their voices mingling together like a surging tide.

"Just who are these three people? How dare they speak to the guardian like that!"

"Yes, the way they look at me doesn't seem like they're joking. Could it be that they really have the ability to challenge that legendary artifact?"

"If they succeed, they will be heroes to all of us! But if they fail... alas, may the gods bless them."

As the crowd murmured, the guardian's eyes shone even brighter, an irresistible power emanating from within, distorting the surrounding air. "Since that's the case," the guardian declared, "let me see your so-called 'courage and wisdom.' Pass my test, and perhaps you can prove your worthiness to know the truth."

Chapter 437 Confronting the Trial of the Guardians

Chapter 437 Confronting the Trial of the Guardians

As soon as he finished speaking, the ground suddenly cracked open, and countless phantom creatures formed from condensed energy surged out and attacked the three of them.

Zhao De drew his longsword from his back, its sharp edge pointing out: "Come on, this is our moment to prove ourselves!"

The traveler moved swiftly, weaving through the phantoms. With each swing of his dagger, he precisely severed those illusory lives, as if he were one with nature, moving with complete freedom.

Zhao De directed his troops to deploy, and the soldiers responded quickly, forming an impregnable defensive line. At the same time, they launched counterattacks, each attack precise and efficient, demonstrating exceptional tactical skills.

The battle was intense and exciting, drawing gasps of amazement from the surrounding spectators, whose eyes were filled with shock and admiration.

"It's unbelievable that they were able to withstand the Guardians' trials!"

"Especially the one with the sword, every movement was so crisp and clean, it was simply art!"

"And then there's that traveler who lives in harmony with nature; his power seems to originate from the very fabric of heaven and earth, mysterious and unfathomable!"

Just as the battle reached its climax, the three seemed to have found the key to breaking the deadlock. Zhao De shouted, "Now! Concentrate your attack on the core!"

With a command, the three of them joined forces to launch their final attack, which shone brightly and caused the entire space to tremble.

As the light faded, the Guardian's voice rang out again, but it was no longer cold: "You... succeeded. Your long-lost courage and wisdom have given me new hope. Go forth and explore the forgotten secrets, and may you lead this world to a brighter future."

After speaking, the guardian slowly closed his eyes, and the ancient seal was released, revealing a passage leading to the unknown.

Zhao De turned to look at the traveler and himself, and the three of them smiled at each other, a smile that reflected the tacit understanding and trust between comrades who had overcome countless hardships. "Friends, the real adventure has only just begun."

"Hey, did you guys hear? Those three guys actually did it!" a passerby exclaimed in the town's tavern, drawing the attention of those around him. "They challenged the Guardians and succeeded! It's like a legend has been reborn!"

"How is that possible?" A burly man at another table exclaimed in disbelief, his beer glass hovering in mid-air. "The power of the Guardians is something even the bravest warriors dare not underestimate. Are they truly the chosen ones?"

At this moment, an elderly businessman interjected, his eyes gleaming with reminiscence: "I heard similar tales when I was young, about ancient heroes who overcame numerous difficulties with wisdom and courage. Perhaps today's story will become a legend told by the next generation."

The discussion in the tavern grew increasingly heated, with everyone's enthusiasm ignited by the sudden news, and an unprecedented excitement permeating the air.

"Speaking of which, Zhao De is a tough nut to crack. He didn't back down an inch in the face of the guardian's pressure," a young traveler exclaimed, his eyes filled with longing for the strong. "And that other traveler, his skills are like those of a figure straight out of mythology, elegant yet deadly."

"Yes, their teamwork was flawless. The scene was... wow, I really want to witness it with my own eyes," the woman next to her chimed in, her tone clearly tinged with envy.

Chapter 438 Defeating the Guardian

Chapter 438 Defeating the Guardian

Just as everyone was immersed in the exciting atmosphere, the tavern door was pushed open, and a gust of wind blew in, bringing with it the hustle and bustle of the outside world. Zhao De, the traveler, and their taciturn but exceptionally powerful companion slowly entered the tavern. Instantly, the entire place fell silent, and everyone's eyes were focused on them.

A child mustered his courage, ran up to Zhao De, looked up at him with eyes full of curiosity and admiration: "Big brother, how did you defeat the guardian? Are you really that amazing?"

Zhao De squatted down, gently patted the child's head, and smiled, "Little one, courage and wisdom are more powerful than any weapon. Remember, everyone has a key in their heart to open the door to the unknown."

The traveler added from the side, his eyes deep, as if he could see through time and space: "Also, don't forget that true power comes from trusting your companions and fearlessly exploring the unknown world."

As night fell, the tavern became lively again, and Zhao De and his group became the focus of everyone's attention. People gathered around them, listening to them recount their incredible adventure, and everyone's face was filled with longing and admiration.

Amidst all this commotion, Zhao De, sitting quietly in a corner, observed everything with a mysterious smile on his lips. Once the crowd thinned out slightly, he slowly stood up and walked to Zhao De and the others.

"Three warriors, you have opened the door to the secret, but please remember, the road ahead is not only filled with treasure and glory, but also with unexpected challenges and trials." Zhao De's voice was deep and powerful, seemingly carrying an unspoken meaning.

Upon hearing this, Zhao De's expression hardened, and he bowed respectfully: "Please enlighten me, senior."