Family Rise: Start with Daily Intelligence.

Chapter 663 Orphan of the Former Dynasty, Special Lottery, Another Golden Core Added
Fu Changsheng took a deep breath and focused his mind on the panel in his sea of ​​consciousness:

"Redeem your prize for a special draw!"

hum!
The golden roulette wheel reappeared, its radiance flowing, even more dazzling than before. The runes on the wheel were more intricate, and some of the squares exuded an ancient aura that stirred the heart, clearly indicating that the prizes this time were of a higher caliber.

The roulette wheel spun rapidly, and finally, the pointer trembled and stopped on a square that was entirely red gold, exuding a majestic and righteous aura that seemed capable of suppressing all evil spirits!
Golden light flashes!

A palm-sized, ancient-looking golden seal, seemingly weighing as much as a mountain, appeared out of thin air in front of Fu Changsheng, hovering in mid-air and slowly rotating.

The seal is entirely dark gold, neither gold nor jade, its texture warm yet possessing a cold, metallic luster. The seal knob is carved into a crouching mythical beast, neither lion nor dragon, its eyes wide open, a pearl in its mouth, exuding an awe-inspiring righteousness that commands respect and intimidates all demons. The seal face bears four ancient, vigorous seal characters, seemingly directly imprinted by the laws of the Dao—"Golden Sun Subdues Demons!"
The moment this seal appeared, the entire Five Elements Space seemed to tremble. The air inside the wooden house became heavy, and Qiu Niang, Bing Yan, and the Flying Feather Beast all felt a strange sensation, a mixture of pressure and security originating from their souls, and involuntarily held their breath.

Fu Changsheng reached out and took the seal. It felt heavy in his hand, as if he were holding a small mountain. At the same time, a vast and powerful flow of information surged into his sea of ​​consciousness:
【Golden Sun Demon-Subduing Seal】

[Tier 5, Low Grade: Merit Spiritual Treasure (Growth Type)]

[Origin: This is a demon-suppressing treasure crafted over a thousand years by a powerful being in ancient times who cultivated both Buddhism and Taoism and whose abilities reached the pinnacle of creation, combining his immeasurable merit with the essence of the sun. After passing through the hands of many masters, accumulating merit from generations of demon-slaying and righteous acts, its spirit has begun to awaken, possessing basic intelligence.]

【characteristic:
I. Extremely Yang and Righteous: It has a natural and powerful restraining and purifying effect on all Yin, evil, demonic, ghostly, and unclean energies.

Second, the power of merit can be mobilized to form a protective golden light that protects against all evil and can passively weaken the negative effects of karma.

3. Demon Suppression and Sealing: When activated, it can release "Golden Sun Demon Subduing Light", which has a strong suppressing, sealing and dispelling effect on demonic cultivators, evil spirits, demons and ghosts.

IV. Growth of Merit: This seal can slowly grow on its own by absorbing the power of merit (such as doing good deeds, eliminating demons and protecting the righteous path, and protecting one's territory—actions that conform to the righteous way of heaven and earth). It also feeds back a small amount of pure merit to its owner, stabilizing their Daoist heart and enhancing their fortune.

Special Abilities:
1. [Golden Sun Shines Everywhere]: Consumes merit power to unleash a wide-range purifying golden light, which can dispel evil spirits and demonic energy in a certain area, purify the environment, and heal creatures corrupted by demonic energy (but is extremely harmful to demonic cultivators).

2. [Subduing Demons and Suppressing Prisons]: Consumes a large amount of mana and merit to conjure a phantom of "Subduing Demons and Suppressing Prisons" to powerfully suppress and seal a single powerful demon or evil spirit.

3. [Spirit Communication (Initial)]: Simple communication can be conducted with the initially awakened spirit. The spirit is highly sensitive to demonic energy and merit, and can provide early warnings and assist in locking onto targets.

[Current Status: The power of merit has been largely depleted, and the spirit is in a semi-dormant, nurturing state. It needs to be replenished with merit or nurtured with righteous magical power over a long period of time to gradually restore its full power.]

[Conditions for Recognizing a Master: One must possess righteousness and a clear mind, and undergo a double refinement using at least one's own essence and a wisp of one's natal spirit. The refinement effect will be even better if one possesses merit or practices righteous cultivation methods.]

"A fifth-grade low-level... a merit-based spiritual treasure!" Fu Changsheng's heart was filled with shock and disbelief!
The value of this [Golden Sun Subduing Demon Seal] is simply immeasurable!
It is not only a powerful spiritual treasure that combines offense and defense, but also possesses a variety of miraculous effects such as purification, suppression, assisting cultivation, and enhancing fortune! In particular, its "merit growth" characteristic means that it is a treasure that can grow together with its master! And the newly awakened artifact spirit makes its potential limitless!
"I just obtained the map of the Xuanling Realm and was worried about how to deal with the unknown risks that might exist there, especially the threats related to the Great Tribulation and the Demonic Path... This 'Golden Sun Demon-Subduing Seal' is simply a godsend!" Fu Changsheng's eyes gleamed. "Moreover, it can also assist in cultivation, stabilize the Dao Heart, and is also beneficial for the upcoming Nascent Soul Heart Demon Tribulation!"

He immediately realized that this seal was extremely compatible with the attributes of his righteous cultivation techniques, such as the Great Evolution Technique and the Nine-Leaf Sword Fungus. More importantly, as a Patrol Envoy, guarding a region and protecting the people, he was already in a position to accumulate "merit," which could continuously nourish the seal, allowing its power to gradually recover and even surpass its former glory!
"Good! Great!"

Fu Changsheng could not hide his excitement.

After calming down.

My thoughts returned to the panel in my mind's eye:
"Redeem your second special lottery draw!"

hum!
The phantom of the golden roulette wheel reappeared.

This time, the light on the roulette wheel appeared more restrained and profound, and the shimmering runes seemed to contain some mysterious aura of bloodline and inheritance. The roulette wheel spun, its speed gradually decreasing, and finally, the pointer stopped precisely on a square that was completely different from the other squares, emitting a warm, jade-like milky-white halo, with countless tiny life veins flowing inside.

There were no earth-shattering phenomena, only a strange crystal, about the size of a pigeon egg, shaped like a seed, crystal clear as jade, with mysterious natural patterns flowing on its surface, silently appeared in Fu Changsheng's palm.

at the same time.

Information about this strange crystal was clearly presented in my mind's eye:
[Passing on the Dharma Seeds - Enduring and Everlasting]

[Type: Talent-based (Unique)]

[Rank: High-grade Earth Rank (can be improved as the host grows and the compatibility increases)]

[Source: Nurtured by Heaven and Earth, containing a trace of the Great Dao of Life.]

Characteristics and Abilities:

1. [Life Affinity]: Significantly enhances the host's perception, attraction, and utilization efficiency of life energy. Cultivating wood-based, life-based, and healing-based techniques will yield twice the results with half the effort.

2. [Endless Vitality]: Grants the host extremely tenacious vitality and regenerative abilities. Recovery speed in a severely injured state far exceeds that of other units of the same rank, and it possesses extremely strong resistance to negative statuses such as poison, curses, and exhaustion. The recovery speed of mana and physical strength is significantly increased.

3. [Spiritual Communication with Plants]: Can communicate superficially with plants, perceive their state, and receive their subtle goodwill and guidance. When cultivating spiritual plants, it can promote their growth, improve their quality, and has a very low chance of inducing benign mutations.

4. [Seed Sprouting]: After the seed of magic deeply merges with the host's bloodline and soul, there is a certain chance (depending on the host's aptitude and opportunity) to comprehend innate divine abilities or innate spells related to life and the wood element.

[Limitations and Explanations:]

1. This [Eternal Life] Dharma Seed is a rare treasure of the inheritance type. Once condensed, it cannot be integrated by the host himself.

2. The best time for fusion is around the Purple Mansion stage. The more solid the foundation, the purer the mind, and the higher the affinity with the Wood/Life attribute, the greater the success rate of fusion and the greater the subsequent potential.

4. The fusion process requires the protection of an elder, who uses essence and blood as a guide and the soul as a bridge to help the seed transfer smoothly. After fusion, it will become part of the host's bloodline talent and can be passed down through generations (but the effect will slightly decrease with each generation, requiring specific conditions to activate or enhance).

"A Dharma Seed! And it's a high-grade Earth-rank Dharma Seed, a [Perpetual Life] Dharma Seed that can grow!" Fu Changsheng's eyes flashed with astonishing light.

He deeply understood the preciousness of the Dharma.

This [Eternal Life] seed, though not directly used in combat, possesses terrifying vitality, regenerative abilities, an extreme affinity for wood/life elements, and the capacity to connect with plants. These qualities are invaluable for a cultivator's long-term development, survival, aiding cultivation, and even the cultivation of family spiritual plants! Furthermore, it can be passed down as a bloodline talent, benefiting future generations—a truly exceptional addition to a family's heritage!
“Yaoyao possesses a healing spirit, so this method is quite suitable for her.”

but.

Yao Yao specializes in formations.

This item would be most suitable to be given to Yongwei!

Yongwei possesses a plant spirit body and is the only bloodline left in the world by her elder brother. With this seed, he also hopes that she can break through to the Golden Core stage in one fell swoop!

...

...

Wuzhou, Fu Family Merit Hall.

The hall was solemn and dignified, filled with the smoke of incense. On the jade wall on the side, the clansmen's contribution points and the items they could be exchanged for were densely recorded. When Wu Qing stepped into the hall, the steward in charge of affairs nodded slightly to him and led him to the inner hall.

Behind the sandalwood table in the inner hall sat an elderly man with a ruddy complexion and a robust demeanor. He was fiddling with a small jade wine set, humming an unknown tune—this was Fu Changli, who was in charge of the Merit Hall.

"Junior Wu Qing greets Third Uncle." Wu Qing bowed respectfully.

"Wu Qing! Come, come, you've come at the perfect time! I've just brewed a new jar of 'Bi Yun Chun' and I was just worried about having no one to taste it!" He picked up a jade pot with great interest and was about to pour the wine.

Wu Qing was both amused and exasperated, and quickly said, "Third Uncle, I've come here today with important business..."

"Important business?" Fu Changli blinked, then put down the wine pot and patted his forehead. "Oh right, right, you're here to exchange for something, right? Let me see..." He reached out and swept his hand across the table, and Wu Qing and Fu Yongwei's contribution records immediately appeared on the jade wall on the side.

Wu Qing said solemnly, "This junior has come to check whether I am qualified to exchange for the Core Formation aid."

Fu Changli stroked his beard, his gaze sweeping over the jade wall, and suddenly exclaimed, "Huh? You and Yongwei's contribution points... combined exceed 100,000!"

Wu Qing and Fu Yongwei are both high-level spiritual plant masters.

In particular, Fu Yongwei is now a mid-grade fourth-tier spirit plant master, and the many rare spirit plants she has cultivated have created immense value for the family. While Wu Qing is slightly less skilled, he is also a fourth-tier spirit plant master and excels at managing spirit fields in other regions, making invaluable contributions. According to clan rules, the contributions of either of them are enough to exchange for Core Formation spirit items.

Fu Changli's gaze fell on the "Seven Hearts Pill" section.

The red marking indicates: Only one left.

His fingers tapped unconsciously on the table, a conflict welling up inside him.

Fu Yongwei...the only bloodline left in the world by her elder brother.

Secretly, he naturally hoped that this last Seven-Heart Pill could be used on his niece. Yongwei was talented and willing to study; with the help of this pill, her success rate in forming her core would increase significantly. Moreover… the main ingredients for the Seven-Heart Pill were extremely difficult to gather, and who knew when he would be able to start refining pills again.

But rules are rules.

Although Fu Changli was obsessed with brewing wine, he was never confused when it came to important matters.

Wu Qing's contributions are clearly evident and meet all the exchange conditions. If he were to break the rules for personal gain, it would not only alienate his clansmen but also trample on the clan's laws.

"Sigh..." He sighed softly in his heart, but a hearty smile appeared on his face. "Good! According to the clan rules, your contribution is enough to exchange for this 'Seven Hearts Pill'!"

He took out a jade box covered with spirit-sealing talismans from his storage bag and solemnly handed it to Wu Qing: "This pill must be stored in a cold jade box. Take it as soon as possible after opening it. Forming a core is no small matter. External objects are only an aid. The key lies within oneself."

Wu Qing accepted the jade box with both hands, feeling the cool medicinal power emanating from it, and was extremely excited: "Thank you, Third Uncle!"

Fu Changli then took out several jade slips: "These are the insights of several successful Core Formation cultivators in our clan. Take them back and study them carefully." He paused, a sly glint in his eyes, "However... I think drinking some of my brewed 'Tranquility Wine' before Core Formation is also a good idea. It can calm your mind. Would you like to try it?"

Wu Qing couldn't help but chuckle and hurriedly said, "I appreciate your kindness, Third Uncle. The matter of Core Formation is of great importance, and I dare not be negligent in the slightest."

"That's true, that's true." Fu Changli scratched his head and then solemnly instructed Wu Qing on the precautions for Core Formation. Wu Qing listened very carefully and even took out a blank jade slip to inscribe the key points one by one.

As I stepped out of the Merit Hall, the afternoon sun was warm and pleasant.

With the Seven Hearts Pill in his hand, Wu Qing walked with light yet steady steps. He didn't go directly to the secluded cultivation cave he had applied for, but instead headed towards the residence of the couple.

It was a quiet and elegant courtyard, filled with lush and vibrant spiritual plants. Pushing open the gate, one could hear Fu Yongwei's cheerful laughter: "Brother Qing, you're back!"

Fu Yongwei was squatting in a corner of the spiritual plant garden, holding a seedling with leaves displaying strange silver-blue patterns. She was dressed in a simple blue dress, her hair was casually tied up, and a few strands of hair fell across her forehead. In the sunlight, she exuded a vibrant aura.

"Wei'er." Wu Qing walked over, her eyes full of tenderness.

Fu Yongwei stood up, patted the dirt off her hands, and smiled brightly: "How's it going? The Merit Hall..."

Her words trailed off. Her gaze fell on the cold jade box in Wu Qing's hand, and then on the expression on his face that was a mixture of excitement, solemnity, and tenderness. She immediately understood something.

“This is…” Her voice trembled.

Wu Qing held her hand and gently placed the jade box in her palm: "Wei'er, this year marks our sixtieth wedding anniversary."

Fu Yongwei was stunned. She looked down at the jade box, then looked up at her husband, her eyes suddenly reddening: "Brother Qing, you... this Seven Hearts Pill should be used by you! Your cultivation is more solid than mine, and you have more experience in combat. Your success rate in forming your core is higher!"

“No.” Wu Qing shook his head, his tone firm. “Wei’er, you have the greatest talent for spiritual plants, and your contributions to the family far exceed mine. Moreover…” He paused, a complex look flashing in his eyes, “Although Third Uncle is fair, I can sense that he secretly hopes this pill will be given to you.”

Fu Yongwei was stunned.

Wu Qing continued, "The patriarch has always treated you like his own daughter. This Seven Hearts Pill... should be yours."

“But…” Fu Yongwei wanted to say something more.

Wu Qing smiled, a smile as gentle as the spiritual plants he had cultivated for many years: "Wei'er, we are husband and wife as one, what's yours is mine. If you successfully form your core, our Fu family will have one more Golden Core stage spiritual plant master, which is of greater significance to the family. As for me... let's wait a bit longer. Our clan has already advanced to a fifth-grade family, and I believe there will be new spiritual plants to assist in forming your core!"

"Brother Qing..." she threw herself into her husband's arms.

Wu Qing gently embraced her and whispered, "This Seven Hearts Pill is my sixtieth-year gift to you. Promise me you'll use it well and successfully form your core in one go."

Fu Yongwei nodded vigorously in his arms.

During their tender moment.

A communication jade slip at Fu Yongwei's waist vibrated slightly.

She took it out and saw a message from her father, Fu Changsheng: "Wei'er, come to the manor."

The words were brief, yet they made Fu Yongwei's heart skip a beat. Since her father advanced to the Golden Core stage, he had become increasingly busy, rarely summoning her alone except for important family matters.

“Brother Qing, Father is calling me,” she said, turning to Wu Qing.

Wu Qing nodded, a knowing glint in his eyes: "Go. The patriarch must have important business to attend to."

Fu Yongwei straightened her clothes and strode towards the patriarch's mansion. Passing through several courtyards, she arrived at the heart of the residence. Fu Changsheng was in his study, a yellowed blueprint spread out before him, depicting intricate array patterns.

“Father,” Fu Yongwei called softly.

Fu Changsheng raised his head, a gentle smile appearing in his eyes: "Wei'er is here, please sit. I heard that Wu Qing went to the Hall of Merit to exchange for Seven Hearts Pills?"

Fu Yongwei nodded and said softly, "Brother Qing used his own contribution points to exchange for the Seven Hearts Pill, but insisted on giving it to me."

Even the auxiliary spiritual objects of the Lianjie Pill can be given away.

It seems this son-in-law is truly sincere towards Wei'er.

Fu Changsheng was very satisfied with Wu Qing's actions. He took out a warm jade box from his sleeve and gently opened it. Inside, a crystal-clear jade seed with mysterious patterns flowing across its surface lay quietly, radiating a warm life force.

"This is the [Endless Life] Dharma Seed, which is most suitable for you."

“Father, this is too precious…” Fu Yongwei’s voice trembled slightly.

“Precious things should be used on the most suitable people.” Fu Changsheng pushed the jade box in front of her. “You have a plant spirit body and are a fourth-level spirit plant master, so you are naturally compatible with this seed. More importantly… Wei’er, I have watched you walk step by step over the years, break free from the shadows, and find your own path. This seed may be able to help you completely sever ties with the past and truly achieve ‘endless life’.”

Fu Yongwei's eyes reddened. She understood the deeper meaning behind her father's words.

"Let's go, I'll take you to the secluded cultivation place." Fu Changsheng stood up. "Let's start refining the cultivation seed now, and then... form the core in one fell swoop!"
-
The back mountain of the Fu family is a secluded cave dwelling specifically for clan members to break through their cultivation barriers.

The spiritual energy here is abundant, and the layers of formations isolate it from all external interference. Fu Changsheng personally opened the most central cave dwelling for his daughter.

"Sit cross-legged and concentrate your mind," Fu Changsheng instructed. "Refining the Dharma Seed is no small matter; it requires essence and blood as a guide and the soul as a bridge. I will protect you from the side."

Fu Yongwei did as instructed. She took out the [Eternal Life] seed and placed it in her palm. The seed felt warm to the touch and seemed to pulsate slightly as if it were alive.

She bit her fingertip, and a drop of her blood fell onto the seed of Dharma. Instantly, the seed shone brightly, and countless fine life veins extended from it, reaching towards her palm like roots.

Immediately afterwards, a vast amount of life energy surged into my body!

Fu Yongwei felt every cell in her body rejoice. The plant spirits within her spontaneously activated, resonating with the energy of the Dharma Seed. The surrounding spiritual plants seemed to sense something, their leaves rustling even without wind.

The refining process lasted for three full days.

At dusk on the third day, a powerful aura suddenly erupted from Fu Yongwei's body! In her dantian, liquid magic power began to rotate, compress, and condense violently!
"Now!" Fu Changsheng shouted in a deep voice, "Guide your magical power and condense the golden core!"

Fu Yongwei focused her mind and body, fully activating her cultivation technique. With the blessing of the [Endless Life] seed, her magical power circulated several times faster than usual, and her life energy flowed continuously, providing the most solid support for the condensation of her golden core.

Another day passed.

A golden pill the size of a pigeon egg, entirely emerald green, with faint golden patterns flowing across its surface, finally took shape in Fu Yongwei's dantian!
The golden elixir was initially formed, and heaven and earth were moved!
However, the moment the golden core stabilized, Fu Yongwei's face suddenly turned pale.

The tribulation of inner demons has arrived!
The scene before my eyes suddenly changed.

It was no longer a quiet, secluded cave, but a dark, damp underground chamber. The air was filled with a strange smell of blood mixed with herbs.

Fu Yongwei found herself transformed back into her teenage self, around seventeen or eighteen years old, wearing tattered clothes and standing barefoot on the cold stone ground. "Wei'er, come here," a gentle female voice rang out.

Fu Yongwei trembled.

She slowly turned her head and saw the figure she both relied on and feared—Aunt Liu.

She was the woman in the assassin organization responsible for training these orphans. Aunt Liu was always very gentle; she would apply medicine to the injured children and cover them with an extra blanket on cold nights. In the hearts of all the children, Aunt Liu was like a mother.

"I have good news for you today." Aunt Liu stroked Fu Yongwei's head with a gentle smile. "You performed the best, and the organization has decided to give you special training. As long as you pass the last test, you can leave here and live a good life."

just.

Such tests were conducted day after day.
-
Inside the secluded cave, Fu Yongwei trembled all over, her forehead covered in cold sweat, and dark energy lingered between her brows.

The most terrifying aspect of the inner demon tribulation lies in its ability to unearth the deepest fears and traumas within a cultivator's heart and amplify them infinitely. For Fu Yongwei, Aunt Liu's betrayal and the despair of being sold as a furnace cauldron are scars that will never heal.

Even though she was later rescued by Fu Changsheng, and even though she has lived a peaceful and happy life all these years, that memory is still deeply embedded in her heart like a poisonous thorn.

"Why...why did you do this to me..." Fu Yongwei murmured unconsciously, the light of her golden core beginning to flicker.

If one cannot break free from their inner demons, at best they will fail to form their core and their cultivation will regress; at worst they will suffer from demonic possession and be reduced to ashes!

Fu Changsheng, the protector, had a solemn expression.

He raised his hand and a pure white jade seal engraved with the character "Fu" flew out from his body!

Fu Changsheng formed hand seals and activated the jade seal with all his might. A faint golden halo appeared on the surface of the jade seal, and a mysterious aura spread out.

"In the name of the Fu family head, borrowing the family's fortune and drawing upon a wisp of destiny, I will help my daughter slay her inner demons and solidify her Dao heart!"

As soon as he finished speaking, the jade seal trembled slightly, and a wisp of extremely faint yet incredibly pure creation energy detached from it, drifting towards Fu Yongwei like a wisp of silk, silently entering her brow.
-
In the illusion of inner demons.

Fu Yongwei huddled in the corner, feeling herself sinking into endless darkness once more. Just then, a ray of warm light shone in.

The light was soft, not dazzling, yet it carried an indescribable power. Within the light, she seemed to see many scenes—

In Yunshan County, the first spiritual plant she had successfully grown bloomed.
Wu Qing clumsily helped her tidy up the herb garden, but accidentally stepped on a seedling. The two looked at each other and laughed.

At the family celebration, the clansmen raised their glasses to drink together, and she sat beside her father, her heart filled with peace.

There were also many more unfamiliar faces, members of the Fu family, working in the spirit fields, studying in the school, and fighting side by side on the battlefield...

"What... are these?" Fu Yongwei asked blankly.

A gentle voice echoed in her heart: "These are all 'now'."

"Now?"

"Yes. The scars of the past cannot be erased, but they should not define you as a whole. Look at what you have now—a father who cares about you, a husband who loves you, a family that needs you, and this garden of spiritual plants, all waiting for you."

The wisp of creation energy transformed into the phantom of Fu Changsheng in her sea of ​​consciousness, gently stroking her head: "Wei'er, Aunt Liu's betrayal was her sin, not yours. You don't need to carry this sin forward."

"But... I still feel so much pain..." Fu Yongwei cried.

"Pain is normal. But you must remember, you are no longer that helpless little girl. You are Fu Yongwei, a fourth-level spirit plant master, a member of the Fu family, and my daughter."

Fu Changsheng's illusory figure gradually faded, but his voice grew clearer: "Wake up, Wei'er. The heavenly tribulation is approaching outside, and Wu Qing is still worried about you. There are many beautiful things waiting for you to discover and create."

As soon as the words were spoken, the illusion shattered like glass.
-
"Boom!"

Above the secluded cave, calamity clouds began to gather!
Fu Yongwei suddenly opened her eyes, a clear and determined look flashing within them. She took a deep breath, feeling the vibrant life force emanating from the emerald green golden elixir in her dantian.

The tribulation of inner demons is over!

Almost simultaneously, the first bolt of heavenly lightning tore through the sky and struck straight down!

"Wei'er!" Wu Qing, who rushed over from outside the cave, saw this scene and his heart jumped into his throat. He didn't expect his wife to attract the heavenly tribulation so quickly, and he was even more worried that she was still unstable after just overcoming the tribulation of her inner demons.

However, he was stunned the next moment.

Fu Yongwei flew out of the cave, facing the heavenly lightning directly. She didn't use many defensive magic treasures; she simply formed hand seals, and a warm, emerald-green light shield appeared around her.

The lightning struck the light barrier, causing it to tremble violently, yet it steadily withstood the blow. Even more miraculously, some of the lightning was absorbed by the emerald light barrier, transforming into pure spiritual energy that nourished Fu Yongwei herself!

"What... what kind of ability is this?" Wu Qing was both surprised and delighted.

The second, the third... bolts of lightning struck one after another. Fu Yongwei withstood them all with her emerald green protective shield. Although her face gradually paled, her eyes grew brighter and brighter.

She felt the [Endless Life] seed operating at full capacity. Every time she was injured, life energy rapidly repaired her body; every time her magical power was depleted, a continuous stream of spiritual energy replenished it.

This is the power of "continuous life"!

Finally, the sixth bolt of heavenly lightning struck.

Fu Yongwei let out a long roar, and the emerald green light shield suddenly expanded, forcefully shattering the last bolt of heavenly lightning!
The tribulation clouds began to dissipate, and seven-colored rays of light descended from the sky, showering upon her. Her aura as a Golden Core cultivator was completely stabilized, even more profound and full of vitality than that of an ordinary Golden Core cultivator.

Fu Yongwei landed slowly, looked at Wu Qing who was rushing over, and revealed a bright smile:

"Brother Qing, I did it."

Wu Qing hugged her tightly, his voice choked with emotion: "That's great...that's great..."

Not far away, Fu Changsheng watched this scene quietly, a gratified smile on his face.

Fu Yongwei condensed a fifth-grade golden core, which is not bad.

at the same time.

A familiar mechanical voice echoed in his mind:
"Ding"

"Your family has gained a Golden Core cultivator and has been granted a special lottery draw opportunity. Would you like to redeem it?"

...

...

A few months later.

After Fu Changsheng finished refining the Golden Sun Demon-Subduing Seal, he was studying Yunmeng Zhenjun's insights on Nascent Soul formation when he suddenly heard familiar, light footsteps outside the door.

He looked up and saw Liu Meizhen, who had hurriedly returned from the Vermilion Bird Mountains in the Eastern Wilderness, push open the door and enter.

Today, she wore a light blue long dress, her hair was neatly styled, and a jade hairpin was inserted diagonally. As she walked, the hem of her dress swayed slightly, exuding a dignified yet capable air. However, there was a hint of seriousness in her brows, which was slightly different from her usual shrewd and composed demeanor.

"Chang Sheng." Liu Meizhen walked to the desk, her tone serious. "There's been some trouble with Cui Zhi."

Fu Changsheng put down the jade slip, his expression turning serious: "What is it?"

Liu Meizhen sat down opposite him, pondered for a moment, and said:
"When Cuizhi broke through to the Golden Core stage some time ago, she somehow triggered some kind of restriction or memory fragment in her body, and actually... awakened a part of her past life's memories."

"Memories of a past life?" Fu Changsheng frowned slightly.

It's not impossible for cultivators to reincarnate, but those who can awaken clear memories of their past lives are either extremely powerful cultivators who left a backup plan during their reincarnation, or those with extremely deep obsessions, or... those with special bloodlines or karmic connections.

“Yes.” Liu Meizhen nodded, lowering her voice even further. “She said that in her previous life… she was a princess of the previous dynasty.”

"A princess from the previous dynasty?!" Fu Changsheng's pupils contracted.

The Great Zhou Dynasty has existed for thousands of years, while the previous dynasty has long since perished. However, the causes and effects, fates, and even possible heirlooms and grudges involved are by no means trivial matters. Especially for the current royal family, the existence of the descendants of the previous dynasty is itself extremely sensitive.

“Not only that,” Liu Meizhen continued, a hint of worry flashing in her eyes, “Cuizhi also vaguely remembers that her father… the last emperor of the previous dynasty, seemed to have told her about the location of a ‘treasure’ or ‘secret place’ before he died. It was said to be related to the restoration of the country or the biggest secret place of the previous dynasty. However, that memory is too fragmented and vague, and she can’t recall the specific location and details for the time being.”

Fu Changsheng tapped his fingers lightly on the table, lost in thought. Liu Meizhen waited quietly, knowing that her husband was always calm and good at weighing the pros and cons.

After a moment, Fu Changsheng slowly spoke:
"This matter is of utmost importance. Although Cuizhi has been reincarnated and her soul essence has changed, the fact that she can awaken her past life memories means that her karmic ties with the previous dynasty have not been completely severed. The Great Zhou has the Heavenly Mystery Pavilion, which has countless talented individuals who are most skilled at deducing heavenly secrets and divination of cause and effect. If they are willing to investigate, they may not be unable to find any clues."

He looked at Liu Meizhen, his gaze sharp:
“It’s too risky for Cuizhi to stay within the Great Zhou territory. Once her identity is exposed, not only will her own life be in danger, but it could also implicate the entire Fu family. After all, harboring or concealing the descendants of a princess from the previous dynasty (even if they are just reincarnations) is a serious crime in any dynasty, especially since our Fu family has just been promoted to the fifth rank and our foundation is not yet stable, making us even more vulnerable to being targeted.”

Liu Meizhen nodded; she had already considered this before she came.

“I think so too. But where should we send her? Although the Great Zhou Dynasty is vast, it is all under the influence of the imperial power. Even in remote places, it is difficult to guarantee her safety.”

A glint flashed in Fu Changsheng's eyes: "Go to the South China Sea."

"The South China Sea?" Liu Meizhen's eyes lit up.

“That’s right,” Fu Changsheng affirmed. “The South China Sea is vast and boundless, dotted with islands, and a complex web of various forces. It is not under the jurisdiction of the Great Zhou Dynasty. There are independent cultivators, sea tribes, and independent sects there, and their rules are different from those of the Great Zhou mainland. Sending Cuizhi to the South China Sea, far away from the Great Zhou’s eyes and ears, is the most appropriate course of action.”

He paused and then said:
"Moreover, according to Uncle Yu's message, the repair of the teleportation array leading to the South China Sea is in its final stage and will be completed in a few more years. At that time, we will be able to establish a relatively stable and secret passage."

Upon hearing this, Liu Meizhen felt somewhat relieved, but being as cautious as she was, she still considered the possibility of something going wrong:

"The teleportation array will take some time to repair. In the meantime, if Cuizhi's identity is inadvertently revealed..."

“That is my second point,” Fu Changsheng continued. “Before heading to the South China Sea, to ensure everything goes smoothly, I plan to send Cuizhi to the place where Uncle Yu was previously in seclusion.”

The secret realm of Yunshan County had long ago set up a great array to shield the heavenly secrets.

It is the safest place.

Currently, only four people know about this.

...

...

Huizhou Prefecture, Yunshan County, a hidden gem.

A ripple appeared on the protective array at the entrance.

Fu Changsheng and Cuizhi have already entered the secret realm.

Suddenly, a vast and independent world unfolded before them—a babbling spring, ancient trees reaching for the sky, and distant mountains shimmering with a soft glow under a pale golden sky, the spiritual energy so rich it was almost tangible as a thin mist.

Cuizhi stood beside Fu Changsheng, dressed in a simple blue robe, her hair tied up in a bun with only a white jade hairpin. She looked at the scene before her, her face showing undisguised astonishment, her eyes widening slightly, but she quickly regained her usual composure, though a lingering shock remained deep in her eyes.

She never expected that, besides the Shuiyun Cave in Huixi County, her family also had such a grander and more complete secret realm hidden in Jingzhou!

Its foundation was far deeper than she had imagined.

"Follow me." Fu Changsheng took the lead, and Cuizhi quickly followed.

There was a commotion coming from the small courtyard in the bamboo grove ahead.

A figure darted out from the courtyard.

“Father!” Fu Yongyun’s face immediately lit up with a joyful smile when he saw Fu Changsheng.

His aura was now calm and profound, and his magical power was perfectly integrated. He had already reached the peak of the Golden Core stage, and seemed to be only one step away from the Nascent Soul stage. This speed of progress made Fu Changsheng, his father, secretly marvel at the mystery of the Seed of Destiny—almost without deliberate hard work, opportunities came one after another, and his cultivation progressed naturally.

“Yongyun.” Fu Changsheng nodded, his eyes filled with relief. “Your sister Cuizhi will also be cultivating in this secret realm for some time to come.”

Fu Yongyun looked at Cuizhi with a friendly smile: "Sister Cuizhi, welcome, welcome. This place is quiet and full of spiritual energy, perfect for secluded cultivation."

He was bored being alone.

Cuizhi slightly bent her knees and bowed.

Fu Changsheng looked at the two of them, his expression serious:

“Yongyun, Cuizhi, listen to me. This place is one of the most secret foundations of the family, unknown to the outside world. When you cultivate here, you must remember two things: First, you must not go out without permission, as the entrance and exit of the secret realm are controlled by restrictions; second, you must never step into the inner area shrouded in thick fog deep within the secret realm, where ancient formations and unknown risks remain, and even I dare not venture there.”

Fu Yongyun nodded quickly: "Father, rest assured, I have always kept that in mind and have never gone near the inner layer."

Cuizhi solemnly replied, "I understand, and I will certainly abide by it."

However, Fu Yongyun hesitated for a moment before speaking, "Father, regarding the inner layer... I have something to say, but I don't know if I should."

"What is it?" Fu Changsheng asked.

Fu Yongyun carefully considered the words, his brows furrowing slightly:
“In recent months, when I cultivate near the inner edge, I occasionally feel a… strange pulse in my bloodline. It’s as if… there’s something within the inner layer that’s connected to my bloodline. The feeling is very faint, intermittent, like a call from a slumber, or a sensation that’s been blocked by many barriers. I can’t quite explain it, but I always feel… like there’s… a relative inside?”

Upon hearing this, Fu Changsheng's heart skipped a beat!
Trapped inside was his second son, Fu Yongrong!

Years ago, Yongrong mistakenly entered a secret realm, triggering an ancient restriction that trapped her there for over a century! This matter is a top secret of the Fu family, known only to Fu Changsheng, Master Yu Yaoyao, and two others. Master Yu has attempted to break the inner layer of the restriction multiple times, but has never succeeded. He can only confirm that Yongrong's life is safe, but he cannot free her.

Fu Changsheng remained expressionless, only saying in a deep voice:
"The inner layer is complex, and the remaining ancient restrictions are difficult even for Grandmasters to break. There are indeed unknown risks. What you sensed may be an illusion caused by the restrictions themselves, or some kind of ancient residual aura. Remember, under no circumstances should you risk entering out of curiosity or because of your senses. That is not a place you can set foot in now."

His tone carried an unquestionable authority.

Seeing his father's serious expression, Fu Yongyun quickly suppressed his doubts and respectfully said, "Yes, I will remember this and will never step into the inner layer without permission."

"Hmm," Fu Changsheng's tone softened, "Yongyun, your cultivation has reached the peak of the Golden Core stage. The next step is to break through to the Nascent Soul stage. I have Yunmeng Zhenjun's insights on forming the Nascent Soul stage here. Take them and study them, and combine them with your own situation to prepare. Cuizhi, you have just entered the Golden Core stage, so your foundation needs to be stable. The spiritual energy in the secret realm is pure, and with Yongyun by your side to exchange ideas, it is a good time to consolidate your cultivation. The two of you can spar and discuss with each other, but remember, cultivation ultimately depends on yourself."

"Yes, Father!" the two replied in unison.

Fu Changsheng then gave some instructions on the details of life and cultivation in the secret realm. Fu Yongyun, who had been there for a long time, was naturally familiar with the place and offered to take good care of Cuizhi.

With everything arranged, Fu Changsheng did not linger any longer.

He took one last deep look at the perpetually thick fog in the inner layer, a complex emotion flashing in his eyes, before turning around, activating the teleportation array, and disappearing into the light.

With the opening of Tianlong Mountain in Jinzhou imminent, it's time for him to set off.

The hidden realm has returned to tranquility.

Fu Yongyun looked at Cuizhi and smiled:

"Sister Cuizhi, let me show you around first. There are several empty quiet rooms over there, all with abundant spiritual energy. I usually stay in the bamboo grove courtyard over there. If you have any questions about cultivation, you can come and find me anytime."

(End of this chapter)