296: Forbidden Power

Xiao Xing and Yin Ping were returning to the divine hall when they encountered Long Ying leading a group of powerful figures to block their path. The two fought back fiercely, and after dealing with Long Ying and his group, both Xiao Xing and Yin Ping sustained injuries. However, they did not pause for a moment and continued rushing towards the divine hall. Yet, when they reached the entrance, they found the great doors tightly shut, with a mysterious power pervading the surroundings.

Xiao Xing tried with all his might to push the doors open, but they remained unmoving. At that moment, Yin Ping discovered an ancient mechanism device nearby, covered in strange runes. Xiao Xing carefully studied it and activated the mechanism according to the sequence of a certain Formation he remembered.

With a flash of light, the doors slowly opened. A majestic voice echoed from within: 'Although you have defeated the external enemies, you must still pass this final trial.' Inside the divine hall, a massive Phantom Arena appeared, filled with various powerful Virtual Warriors.

Xiao Xing and Yin Ping exchanged a glance and stepped into it without hesitation. They knew that only by overcoming this challenge could they truly become heroes recognized by the divine hall and embark on their path of glory. The battle erupted instantly; relying on their seamless cooperation, the two engaged in a thrilling, intense fight with the Virtual Warriors.

After a hard-fought battle, Xiao Xing and Yin Ping finally defeated all the Virtual Warriors. That majestic voice sounded again: 'You have proven your strength. From this moment, you are heroes of the divine hall.' The divine hall's doors swung fully open, bathing them in golden radiance.

Xiao Xing and Yin Ping walked out of the divine hall and set off on their journey back to the Immortal Mountain. As soon as they reached the foot of the mountain, they saw Ji Ziyue, her face filled with worry. Xiao Xing quickly stepped forward to comfort her: 'Don't worry, we've returned safely.' Ji Ziyue's eyes reddened: 'I heard you encountered numerous dangers and perils; I was so afraid you wouldn't make it back.'

By then, many Disciples of the Immortal Mountain had gathered around, cheering to welcome the return of the two heroes. Yin Ping cupped her hands in salute to the crowd, then turned to Xiao Xing and said, 'This experience was truly perilous, but the gains were immense.' Xiao Xing nodded in agreement. Just as everyone was celebrating, the sky suddenly darkened, and a massive black cloud descended, shrouding the area. Within the cloud layers, powerful fluctuations of aura could faintly be sensed. Xiao Xing frowned deeply: 'It seems peace won't last long; a new challenge is about to arrive.' Hearing this, the smiles gradually faded from everyone's faces, and the atmosphere grew tense.

Xiao Xing looked up at the black cloud in the sky, clenched his fist, and shouted loudly, 'No matter what enemy it is, we will not retreat!' Upon hearing this, the Disciples also rallied their spirits and prepared for battle.

Suddenly, a black lightning bolt descended from the black cloud, striking the ground and forming a vortex. A Black-Robed Figure stepped out from it. He exuded an aura that chilled one to the bone and spoke coldly: 'The True God Realm is not something ants like you can contend with. Submit to me now, and perhaps I will spare your lives.'

Xiao Xing sneered: 'Wishful thinking. We've endured countless hardships to reach this day; how could we bow to you?' With that, he charged forward first. The Black-Robed Figure laughed loudly and, with a casual wave, sent Xiao Xing flying. Seeing this, Yin Ping and Ji Ziyue joined forces, casting Spells to attack the Black-Robed Figure.

However, the Black-Robed Figure's power was too formidable; even with the three of them attacking together, they couldn't harm him in the slightest. Just as everyone was in despair, Xiao Xing recalled a record about a kind of Forbidden Power he had seen in the divine hall. Disregarding the danger, he forcibly mobilized the power within his body, causing it to emit a dazzling light. Xiao Xing roared and charged at the Black-Robed Figure. This time, he successfully struck him. Severely wounded, the Black-Robed Figure transformed into black smoke and fled. Xiao Xing, having exhausted his strength, collapsed to the ground. The crowd gathered around him, their eyes filled with admiration.