Family Rise: Start with Daily Intelligence.

Chapter 616 The Evolution of the Dragon Blood Tree, the Strategic Layout, and the Appearance of the Gu King
The Five Elements Space, at the summit of Mount Ling.

With a slight thought, Fu Changsheng appeared on the mountaintop platform shrouded in misty spiritual energy. His mind stirred again, and a jade box, neither metal nor wood, its surface flowing with a chaotic aura, appeared in his hand. The moment the lid was opened, an indescribable aura, seemingly containing the ultimate principles of creation and destruction, wafted out—it was the incomparably precious [Aura of Creation].

Without the slightest hesitation, he turned his gaze to the magnificent and majestic flying beast standing to one side.

"Go, use this energy to catalyze the tree within the cauldron."

The Flying Feather Beast let out a clear cry and carefully used its invisible power to lift the wisp of creation energy, flying towards the [Mountain and River Clan-Suppressing Cauldron], which was suspended in the center of the mountain peak and constantly absorbing the spiritual energy of the earth's veins.

Inside the cauldron was a world unto itself, where the dragon blood tree sapling was rooted in a spiritual soil that simulated a dragon vein. Its branches and leaves were outstretched, and although it was only a sapling, it already exuded a powerful and ancient aura. It seemed as if there was reddish-gold blood slowly flowing in the veins of its leaves.

The Flying Feather Beast gently guided the energy of creation toward the Dragon Blood Tree.

hum!
The moment the energy of creation touched the tree trunk.

The entire dragon blood tree trembled violently, bursting forth with a dazzling crimson-gold radiance! The branches and leaves, which had been growing slowly, began to sprout and spread wildly at a speed visible to the naked eye, the trunk became thicker and more gnarled, and the patterns on the bark became even deeper, as if covered with dragon scales!

Above the canopy.

It even condensed into clusters of misty spiritual clouds.

Inside, tiny dragon-shaped phantoms moved about, and deep dragon roars echoed faintly within the cauldron. A boundless vitality, mixed with pure dragon breath, burst forth!

This astonishing phenomenon lasted for about the time it takes for an incense stick to burn before gradually subsiding.

Fu Changsheng stared intently and saw that the Dragon Blood Tree inside the cauldron had changed drastically!
What was once a sapling barely taller than a person has now grown into a colossal tree over three zhang tall, with lush branches and leaves! Its trunk requires two people to encircle it, its color a deep blood-red, its hardness exceeding that of iron. Among the branches and leaves, a faint golden-red sap flows through its veins, emitting a refreshing and intoxicating fragrance. Especially at several nodes where the main trunk branches, several pigeon-egg-sized, crystal-clear resin clumps have condensed, their interiors seemingly containing the shadowy figures of golden dragons—this is mature [Dragon Blood Resin]!
What's even more striking is that at the base of the tree trunk, there is a natural depression resembling a dragon's mouth, filled with a thin layer of viscous, honey-like liquid that shimmers with a golden-red luster—[Holy Healing Elixir]!
The information on the consciousness panel also updates accordingly:
[Divine Artifact: Dragon Blood Tree (Creation Catalyst)]

[Rank: Peak Fourth Rank (Growth type, baptized by the Qi of Creation, potential increased, with a very small chance of advancing to the sixth rank)]

【characteristic:
1. Dragon Blood Resin: It can be collected once every 60 years (the cycle is greatly shortened due to the catalysis of the Qi of Creation). Its quality far exceeds that of ordinary fifth-grade materials. It is a top-grade material for refining fifth-grade supreme spiritual treasures. When integrated into a magic weapon, it can add the dual effects of "True Dragon's Might" and "Undying Tenacity".

2. Healing Elixir: The tree sap has been transformed into "Dragon Blood Holy Spring," which doubles its effects. It can not only instantly heal severe injuries to the meridians and internal organs, but also has a significant nourishing effect on damage to the origin of the Golden Elixir. Long-term use can slowly strengthen the body and slightly enhance the potential of the bloodline.

3. Dragon Breath Domain: Mature beings naturally emit dragon breath, which can form a domain, greatly increasing their attractiveness and deterrent effect on dragon-type monsters. The probability of subduing fourth-tier and lower-tier dragon-type monsters increases significantly, and there is a certain chance of attracting fifth-tier dragon beasts to attach themselves to them.

4. Legacy of Creation: Nourished by the energy of creation, its resin and sacred liquid contain a barely perceptible trace of the Daoist essence of creation, which may provide unexpected enhancements in alchemy and talisman making.

[Status: Semi-mature. Further growth requires absorbing a massive amount of heaven and earth essence or special dragon-type origin; conditions for advancing to the sixth tier are unknown.]

Looking at the mature dragon blood tree in front of him, a treasure trove of resources, Fu Changsheng could not hide his joy.

"Excellent! As expected of the Qi of Creation, it has directly catalyzed the Dragon Blood Tree, which would normally take 3,200 years to mature, to a semi-complete form in one fell swoop!"

His gaze fell upon the trunk of the Dragon Blood Tree, where several crystal-clear, ruby-like clumps of resin had naturally condensed, radiating an alluring spiritual light. At the junction of several thick branches, faint golden liquid, exuding a rich life force, could be seen accumulating – that was the even more potent "Dragon Blood Holy Spring"!
With this tree, the Fu family essentially possesses a stable and sustainable source of top-tier resources! Whether used to enhance the quality of family magical artifacts, as a life-saving and healing elixir in critical moments, or to attract and cultivate dragon-type spirit beasts in the future, it will bring immeasurable value!
He carefully took out the jade bottle and collected the meager ten drops of Dragon Blood Holy Spring that had accumulated in the natural dragon's mouth depression. Each drop was worth a life in a critical moment!

...

...

The Fu Family Secret Realm, deep within the Water Cloud Cave.

A specially designated quiet room was filled with spiritual energy, yet it still couldn't dispel the lingering gloom that had permeated the room for over a decade.

Ouyang Fei lay quietly on a cold jade bed, his face withered, his breath as faint as a candle flickering in the wind. Years ago, to save his family from dire straits, he, along with Fu Changli and Fu Molan, ventured into the far west to attack the Joyful Sect's stronghold. Afterwards, they were captured by the Joyful Sect and subjected to brutal torture by those demons. His golden core shattered, his meridians destroyed, and his dantian depleted, his life force long since exhausted. For over a decade, he had been kept afloat by the Fu family's relentless search for life-extending elixirs, but everyone knew this was merely a delay, not a cure.

Fu Molan stood guard by her side.

Just then, the door to the quiet room was silently pushed open, and Fu Changsheng appeared in the doorway.

"Patriarch?" Fu Molan stood up.

Fu Changsheng nodded slightly to her, his gaze falling on Ouyang Fei: "Mo Lan, I have found a way to cure Uncle Fei."

Fu Molan's delicate body trembled, almost unable to believe her ears: "Patriarch, you... what did you say? Heal Uncle Fei?"

"good."

Fu Changsheng opened his palm, and a crystal-clear jade bottle appeared in his hand.

"This is the Dragon Blood Sacred Spring, obtained through a great opportunity. It has the miraculous effect of reshaping meridians and nourishing one's origin," Fu Changsheng explained, his tone full of confidence. "Uncle Fei's injuries are mainly due to the depletion of his origin and the severance of his meridians, which prevents his life force from continuing. The life force contained in the Dragon Blood Sacred Spring can be the perfect remedy!"

Looking at the pale golden liquid in the jade bottle and feeling the indescribable divine power within it, Fu Molan still found it hard to believe.

after all.

For Ouyang Fei, let alone being cured, it would be a luxury to even save his life.

Fu Changsheng said no more and walked to the cold jade bed.

He first used his pure chaotic magic to protect Ouyang Fei's fragile heart meridian, and then carefully opened the jade bottle.

Instantly, an even richer and more mellow life force permeated the air, as if the entire quiet room were bathed in warm spring sunshine. Fu Changsheng used his divine sense as a guide to manipulate a drop of Dragon Blood Holy Spring, slowly dripping it into Ouyang Fei's chapped lips.

The holy spring melts instantly upon tasting, like sweet rain falling on parched land.

At first, Ouyang Fei did not react at all.

But after only a few breaths, his withered body suddenly trembled slightly! Beneath his skin, it seemed as if countless warm currents were surging wildly! His meridians, which were originally lifeless and desolate like a desert, began to be reshaped and reconnected at a visible speed under the impact of this power containing the dragon's boundless vitality and a trace of the Dao of Creation!
Flesh buds sprouted from the broken parts, withered areas regained their luster, and blockages were forcibly cleared!

This process was obviously extremely painful. Ouyang Fei, who was unconscious, frowned, his body convulsed unconsciously, and a hoarse sound came from his throat.

"This……"

Fu Molan could hardly believe it.

Over the past decade or so.

The Fu family spent a fortune, but the healing elixir they won at the auction only kept Uncle Fei alive.

Never expected this.

The patriarch actually produced such a divine object.

It's simply a masterpiece of nature!

at this time.

She now completely believed what the head of the family said; perhaps Uncle Fei really could cure her!

She looked intently.

But then, as more holy spring power was incorporated...

A tremendous change has occurred within Uncle Fei's body.

A new network of meridians was constructed, wider and stronger than before, faintly gleaming with a pale golden luster. His parched dantian, as if infused with the fountain of life, began to glow anew. Although the re-condensation of the golden core was still a long way off, the "living water" representing vitality had reappeared. Color began to return to his paper-white face, and his weak breathing became stronger and more steady.

The most amazing thing is.

The primordial power within him, which had been completely dissipated and almost undetectable due to the self-destruction of his golden core, was now, under the nourishment of the Dragon Blood Sacred Spring, re-condensing into a faint flame! Although small, it was full of vitality, meaning that his foundation of cultivation had the possibility of being rebuilt!

Time passed little by little.

When nearly half of the Dragon Blood Holy Spring in the jade bottle was consumed, Fu Changsheng stopped what he was doing.

At this moment, Ouyang Fei was a completely different person from before.

His complexion was rosy and his breathing was long and strong. Although he was still unconscious, anyone could see that the fatal wound in his body had been healed, his depleted source of energy had been replenished, and he had even benefited from the misfortune, with his meridians and physique being better than before!
Fu Molan grasped Ouyang Fei's warm hand, feeling his strong pulse, and was filled with excitement:
"Not only did Uncle Fei come back to life, but he also turned misfortune into blessing, rebuilding his Dao foundation. Patriarch, your divine medicine is truly..."

If outsiders knew.

Even Nascent Soul True Monarchs would likely fight tooth and nail to snatch it, inevitably causing a bloodbath in the cultivation world.

at the same time.

A familiar mechanical voice echoed in Fu Changsheng's mind:
"Ding"

"You have healed a clansman with the potential to become a Nascent Soul cultivator; your clan contribution points have been increased to 10,000."

...

...

The news of Fu Changsheng's safe return from the far west spread like a warm spring breeze throughout the Fu family and also reached the ears of Fairy Tianyin and the couple Chen Feng and Su Wan, who were in the Eastern Wilderness and hunted monsters for him year-round.

For the past two or three decades, the three of them have been rooted in the perilous Eastern Wilderness, traversing miasma-ridden lands and ferocious beast lairs, experiencing countless battles large and small, their bodies bearing the marks of hardship and a hint of ferocity. Their greatest motivation, besides their loyalty to the Fu family, was the solemn promise made by the family patriarch years ago—the Azure Lotus Refining Elixir Talisman!

Upon hearing that the patriarch had not only returned safely but also seemed to have made further progress in his cultivation, the three were overjoyed. They immediately put aside all their affairs, carefully organized all the demon cores they had obtained through blood and sweat over the years, and, filled with excitement and anticipation, rushed to the Fu family's main clan in Jingzhou to request an audience.

Inside the quiet room of the patriarch's mansion, the air was filled with the gentle fragrance of sandalwood.

Fu Changsheng looked at the three people, who were travel-worn but had bright eyes, and his gaze swept over the perfectly sealed jade boxes they presented. Inside were more than thirty fourth-tier demon cores, each with different attributes and radiating spiritual light! Among them were even a few from high-grade fourth-tier demon beasts, which were of extraordinary value.

This is undoubtedly a huge fortune, and even more so, proof of the three men's life-and-death struggles over the past two or three decades.

"Thank you for your hard work." Fu Changsheng nodded slightly, his tone carrying a hint of approval. "You've done a great job, far exceeding my expectations."

Upon receiving the patriarch's affirmation, Chen Feng's face immediately broke into a simple yet excited smile. He rubbed his hands together and said, "Patriarch, you flatter me! It is our honor to be able to share your burdens!"

Su Wan smiled, her eyes revealing undisguised joy.

Even the usually aloof Fairy Tianyin had a hint of relief flash in her eyes.

Fu Changsheng said no more. With a flick of his sleeve, three talismans radiating a strange azure light and with lotus-shaped Dao patterns flowing on their surfaces appeared out of thin air, hovering in front of the three. The moment the talismans appeared, the surrounding spiritual energy seemed to become more docile and condensed, subtly affecting the golden cores within their dantian.

It was exactly what they had been dreaming of—the Azure Lotus Refining Talisman!

"This talisman needs to be refined in seclusion in an absolutely safe place with abundant spiritual energy. The process may be somewhat painful, but it will greatly benefit the origin of your golden core. I hope you will make good use of it and not waste this opportunity."

"Thank you for your generous gift, Master!"

Suppressing their overwhelming joy, the three of them respectfully accepted the talisman with both hands, carefully placing it in their bosoms as if holding the most precious treasure in the world.

After bestowing the talisman, Fu Changsheng pondered for a moment before speaking again, his tone turning serious:

"The matter of the demon core is temporarily settled. Right now, there are other important matters that require your attention."

The three immediately composed themselves and listened attentively.

“You are stationed in the Eastern Wilderness and are most familiar with the local situation. I want you to continue to stay in the Eastern Wilderness and closely monitor the movements of both sides.” Fu Changsheng’s gaze was deep. “First, the Tianyin Tribe. We need to pay attention to every detail, including personnel movements, changes in formations, and interactions with neighboring tribes. Second, the Luo family, especially the movements of its high-ranking members, troop deployments, and… whether their attitude towards the Tianyin Tribe has changed.”

He paused, then added, "You don't need to get involved. Just observe secretly and send back intelligence regularly. This matter concerns the family's future strategy, so be careful."

Although they didn't understand why the patriarch was suddenly so interested in the Tianyin Tribe and the Luo Family, the three of them didn't hesitate and immediately agreed in unison:

"Yes! Your subordinate obeys! I will certainly not fail the master's trust!"

After leaving the quiet room and departing from the patriarch's mansion, the three of them relaxed slightly, looked at each other, and their eyes were filled with the joy of having found a treasure and their anticipation for the future.

"That's wonderful! With this Azure Lotus Refining Elixir Talisman, Patriarch, the quality of your Golden Core will definitely reach a new level!" Su Wan held Chen Feng's hand, her eyes full of tenderness and expectation.

Chen Feng nodded emphatically, his spirit soaring:
"Wan'er, your Golden Core can also be improved! And there's the fairy! Our future path to enlightenment has finally gained more hope! Following the patriarch was definitely the right decision!"

The Heavenly Sound Fairy gently stroked the cool jade talisman in her bosom, feeling the profound power it contained. A rare, faint yet genuine smile appeared on her usually aloof face. Her path, almost severed due to the low quality of her golden core, seemed to have been rekindled by a ray of dawn. Amidst her excitement, Su Wan's mind became even more thoughtful. She murmured to herself, seemingly lost in thought:
"The task the patriarch just assigned is to monitor the Tianyin tribe and the Luo family... Do you think the patriarch has already found a way to deal with the Tianyin tribe?"

Chen Feng's eyes lit up:
"Very likely! The fourth-grade high-quality spiritual vein and thousands of acres of spiritual fields occupied by the Tianyin Tribe are a huge piece of meat! With more and more Golden Core cultivators emerging in the family, the current foundation in Jingzhou is indeed a bit stretched thin. Expanding territory is the perfect time!"

The Celestial Music Fairy nodded slightly, and her clear, cool voice rang out:

"What Sister Su Wan said is correct. The patriarch's move is for two reasons. First, it is to expand the family and acquire more cultivation resources to support the increasing number of Golden Core cultivators. Second, it is probably also to prepare for the family's advancement to the fourth rank. The advancement of the Patrol Envoy requires not only top-notch combat power, but also the 'achievements' of expanding territory and guarding a region. Taking over the Tianyin Tribe is undoubtedly a great achievement."

After some analysis, the three of them felt that Fu Changsheng was far-sighted and had a long-term plan.

"No matter what the patriarch wants to do, we'll just focus on doing our assigned tasks well!" Chen Feng clenched his fist, his tone firm. "I have a feeling that as long as we follow the patriarch's lead and serve him faithfully, in the future... we might even be able to hope for the opportunity to form a Nascent Soul!"

These words, though bold, instantly struck a chord with Su Wan and Fairy Tianyin. Nascent Soul Formation! That was a realm countless Golden Core cultivators dreamed of but could never reach! In the past, they wouldn't have dared to even consider it. But now, seeing the unfathomable strength and endless methods of their patriarch Fu Changsheng, and looking at the heaven-defying talisman in their hands that could enhance the quality of their Golden Cores…

An unprecedented ambition, like a seed, quietly sprouted in their hearts.

Joining the Fu family was perhaps the most correct and fortunate decision they ever made.

the other side.

Fu Changsheng planned to go into seclusion to refine the fourth-tier demon core he had acquired into the Azure Lotus Refining Talisman and the Golden Lotus Condensing Talisman.

...

...

Northern Xinjiang.

Deep within the Black Witch Village, in that hidden chamber, the chilling atmosphere was even more intense than before.

Decades pass.

Twelve bronze coffins floated silently in the dark green pool of venom. The chains wrapped around the coffin lids had turned as black as ink and emitted a nauseating, sweet-smelling odor.

Wu Qi stood by the pool, his once relatively normal face now shrouded in an ominous bluish-black aura, especially his right arm, which had turned completely purplish-black, with countless tiny insects wriggling beneath the skin, making it look ferocious and terrifying. He stared intently at the dense black aura in the center of the pool, which was constantly churning, condensing, and then dissipating at the last moment before taking shape, his eyes filled with anxiety and resentment.

"Why...why is it still so close!" Wu Qi roared, his voice hoarse like sandpaper scraping. "The Wu family's fortune...is too weak! It's simply not enough to support the complete birth of the Gu King!"

Over the past few decades, he had secretly abducted dozens of promising members of the Wu family, using their life essence and meager family fortune to feed these twelve Gu slaves. He then forcibly fused them with his own natal Gu poison. The Gu King's rudimentary form was almost complete, just one step away from being fully solidified, as if lacking the most crucial "catalyst"—a sufficiently abundant and powerful force of fortune!

The hunchbacked old man stood shakily to the side, cautiously saying, "Chief, the Wu family is only a newly promoted sixth-rank, with a shallow foundation. Their clan fortune... I'm afraid it's insufficient to meet the Gu King's needs. Should we... stop? What if the Holy Maiden discovers..."

"Stop?" Wu Qi suddenly turned his head, his bloodshot eyes fixed on the old man, who was so frightened that he took a step back. "I have spent decades of my life to split my natal Gu poison, but my cultivation has stagnated and even worsened. You want me to stop now?!"

The six-eyed spider on his chest seemed to sense its master's rage, emitting a sharp hiss and sucking blood even faster, making Wu Qi's face even paler.

"We can't wait any longer..." Wu Qi gasped for breath, a mad, resolute glint in his eyes. "We must find a family with even greater fortune! Only then can the Gu King be fully formed! At that time, I will be able to break through the shackles with the power of the Gu King, and even... turn against that bitch and reclaim the power of the Black Witch Village!"

His gaze involuntarily drifted to the outside of the secret chamber, towards the direction that both he feared and coveted—the Yulin Prefecture where the Fu family resided!
The Fu family!

That family, which has been rising to prominence in recent years, with its patriarch Fu Changsheng being renowned throughout the Great Zhou Dynasty! Their prosperity is said to have even stirred celestial phenomena! If one could obtain the nourishment of their family's fortune, the Gu King would surely succeed!
This idea grew wildly in Wu Qi's mind like weeds.

He knew this move was extremely risky; once exposed, he would have no chance of survival against Fu Changsheng's wrath. But the allure of the impending success of the Gu King, along with his desire for the Holy Maiden and power, ultimately overwhelmed his fear of the risks.

"To be absolutely certain, and to avoid that bitch's spies..." Wu Qi's face revealed a ruthless glint, "I will go myself!"

He used the Black Witch Village's secret technique, the "Shape-Changing and Bone-Replacing Technique," causing his bones to crackle slightly. His face and body began to twist and change, and in a short while, he transformed into an ordinary-looking rogue cultivator with an aura maintained at the late Purple Mansion stage, exuding a somewhat sinister aura. Even the abnormality in his right arm was temporarily suppressed and hidden by the secret technique.

After making preparations, Wu Qi quietly left Black Witch Village and infiltrated Yulin Prefecture, which was under the jurisdiction of the Fu family, and blended into the bustling Yulin market.

The market was bustling with people, yet orderly. Patrolling members dressed in Fu family attire could be seen everywhere, each one full of energy and possessing solid cultivation. Shops lined both sides of the street, selling various magical artifacts, elixirs, and talismans, many of which bore the unique mark of the Fu family, and business was booming.

Wu Qi disguised himself as a rogue cultivator and discreetly gathered information. The more he learned, the more alarmed he became.

The Fu family now boasts several Golden Core cultivators, and its patriarch, Fu Changsheng, is shrouded in legend, with tales of his miraculous feats such as slaying a fake infant, soaring in the ranking of the Imperial Patrol, and being highly regarded by the imperial court. All these achievements demonstrate the Fu family's formidable strength and its booming fortune.

"Damn it... This Fu family is even more powerful than rumored..." Wu Qi cursed inwardly, his initial impulsiveness and madness suddenly doused with cold water. Kidnapping a core member of the Fu family? That's practically suicide! He'd probably be beheaded the moment he made a move, thanks to Fu Changsheng's flying sword!
He dared not gamble his life on Fu Changsheng's reaction speed.

Forcibly suppressing his greed for the direct descendants of the Fu family, Wu Qi settled for second best. He hid in the shadows, using the Black Witch Village's secret technique for observing fortune, "The Fortune-Gazing Technique," his eyes veiled in a gray light as he scanned the cultivators coming and going in the market.

In his "vision," most cultivators had ordinary white or red auras above their heads; those with yellow auras were already elites from small families. He locked onto several young cultivators whose auras were bright yellow, even tinged with a pale blue, and secretly followed and investigated them.

The result, however, greatly disappointed him.

These young people with decent fortune were, without exception, scions of seventh-rank or even insignificant minor families affiliated with the Fu family. Their fortune was less due to their own abilities or those of their families, and more akin to benefiting from the Fu family's influence, manifesting itself through their dependence on this powerful clan. Its essence remained weak, merely a drop in the ocean for the Catalyst Gu King, far from sufficient!
"Useless! A bunch of useless trash!" Wu Qi roared inwardly in a fit of impotent rage. These scions of vassal families, though seemingly fortunate, were like rootless duckweed, utterly incomparable to the profound family fortune rooted in blood and passed down through history of true aristocratic families.

He spent several days lurking in Yulin City, screening multiple targets, but ultimately returned disappointed. In his view, those potential targets were all "barely satisfactory," far from meeting his requirements.

Standing on the bustling street, gazing at the City Lord's Mansion in the distance—a symbol of the Fu family's authority and shrouded in spiritual energy—Wu Qi's face was so gloomy it could drip water. A fierce battle raged within him between his yearning for the immense fortune of his clan and his fear of Fu Changsheng's ruthless methods.

Should we... just give up like this? Watch helplessly as the Gu King, the culmination of decades of effort, is ultimately undone?
No! no way!

"hold on!!"

...

...

A few months later.

Just as Wu Qi was feeling resentful and preparing to settle for second best, leaving the market with the few vassal family members he had tricked into having "decent" luck, a vague sense of unwillingness made him inexplicably circle around the most bustling street once more.

It was this last lap that almost made him miss the greatest "opportunity" of his life!
In a rather inconspicuous corner, a newly opened stall caught his attention. The stall owner was a boy who looked to be sixteen or seventeen years old, with delicate features and a clear but somewhat naive and inexperienced look in his eyes. He was dressed plainly, in the kind of clothing commonly seen among the scions of small families under the Fu family's control. The items on his stall were nothing more than ordinary first- and second-tier materials and some low-level talismans, of acceptable quality but nothing particularly remarkable.

However, the scene above the boy's head during Wu Qi's "Looking at Fortune Technique" caused him to be instantly shaken and almost lose control of his aura!

What an immense fortune that is!
Above the young man's head was not the white, crimson, or yellow of ordinary cultivators, but a vast, almost tangible, azure canopy of fortune! Within the azure aura, specks of golden light, like stars, floated and drifted, faintly gathering into some mysterious shape, exuding an aura of nobility, antiquity, and boundless potential! This fortune far surpassed that of anyone he had seen before, even exceeding several times the fortune he had imagined a direct descendant of the Fu family should possess!
What made Wu Qi's heart pound even harder was that this young man, despite possessing such astonishing fortune, was dressed in the attire of a mere vassal family! This was simply... a godsend! A beautiful, unclaimed gem, exposed in the bustling city!

"Calm down... I must calm down!" Wu Qi forcibly suppressed the overwhelming joy that was almost making him lose his mind, taking several deep breaths to calm his racing heart. He carefully observed the young man and found that although the other party tried his best to imitate the behavior of a rogue cultivator, some subtle habits and the confidence in his eyes were still different from those of a true scion of a small family. However, none of that mattered anymore. What mattered was this overwhelming luck, and that seemingly "weak and vulnerable" disguise!

This is undoubtedly the most perfect "medicinal ingredient" tailor-made for his Gu King!
A glint of determination flashed in Wu Qi's eyes. He quickly adjusted his expression, putting on a kind and approachable smile with a touch of seniority, and walked over without making a sound.

He did not immediately approach the boy with amazing luck, but instead returned to the inn where he was temporarily staying.

Inside the inn's secluded courtyard, three young cultivators, lured there by Wu Qi under the pretense of "organizing a hunt for the third-tier demonic beast 'Cloud Mist Sable' in Misty Mountain and seizing its companion rare spiritual herb 'Illusion Heart Orchid,'" were waiting. These three came from different vassal families of the Fu family, knew each other well, and were all at the early to mid-Foundation Establishment stage. In Wu Qi's eyes, their auras were all "bright yellow with a hint of green," making them the tallest among the short, and they were originally his potential targets.

"Senior Wu, you're back? When do we set off?" One of the disciples, surnamed Zhao, immediately stood up and asked upon seeing Wu Qi return. They held this "warm-hearted" "late-stage Purple Mansion rogue cultivator" in high esteem, who was willing to lead them to dangerous areas for training and share the rewards.

“My young friends,” he sighed, “I have inquired further in the market and learned that not only have the Cloud Mist Sables been frequently active in Misty Mountain lately, but for some unknown reason, Gu worms have also proliferated there, fraught with hidden dangers amidst the miasma.” He continued, “While we are not afraid of demonic beasts, we know little about the unpredictable and treacherous Gu magic. If we rashly go there, I fear…”

"Gu worms?" Upon hearing this, the Zhao family member's expression changed slightly. "What should we do? The art of witchcraft is unpredictable and mysterious; we have never dabbled in it."

The other two exchanged bewildered glances, perplexed. They were well aware of the infamous witchcraft of the Northern Frontier, a skill that couldn't be easily dealt with simply by having high cultivation levels.

Wu Qi took in everyone's reactions, secretly pleased, but on the surface he appeared to have a sudden inspiration: "That's right! I just passed by the stall area and seemed to see a young friend. The materials he was selling at his stall had faint traces of witchcraft. Perhaps... he has some knowledge of this art?"

He described the location of Fu Yongkong's stall and the boy's general appearance.

“Oh? Is that the new stall owner? I’ve seen him before. He looks young and doesn’t talk much,” another young man surnamed Li recalled.

“Since the senior has mentioned it, why don’t we go together to inquire? If he truly understands witchcraft, inviting him along will provide extra protection,” suggested the Zhao disciple. Their experience was limited, and they had considerable faith in this “senior,” Wu Qi.

“That suits me perfectly.” Wu Qi nodded and led the three of them toward Fu Yongkong’s stall.

Behind the stall, Fu Yongkong was somewhat bored as he tidied up his goods. He had secretly run away to set up a stall this time to experience the life of an ordinary cultivator and temper his character. His mother, Wu Ling'er, was in seclusion trying to break through a bottleneck, and his father, Fu Changsheng, was far away in Huizhou Prefecture handling affairs, so he had finally found an opportunity to sneak out.

Just as he was wondering whether he should pack up and go back, he saw several vassal family members he had met before walking over with the somewhat gloomy "Senior Wu".

“Greetings, young friend.” Wu Qi spoke first, his smile warm. “These young friends and I are about to head to Mount Nongwu to hunt Cloud Mist Sables and collect Illusion Heart Orchids, but we have heard that Gu worms have recently proliferated in the mountains, making it extremely dangerous. Judging from the items on your stall, you seem to have some knowledge of the ways of witchcraft and Gu. Would you be willing to join us? We will certainly share our spoils fairly.”

The young man surnamed Zhao also chimed in, "Yes, young brother, although Mount Nongwu is somewhat dangerous, the Cloud Mist Sable and the Illusion Heart Orchid are quite valuable. If you succeed, it will greatly benefit your cultivation. With Senior Wu leading the way, your safety is also guaranteed."

Fu Yongkong looked at the group of people before him. He vaguely recognized these young men from prominent families; they were indeed from small clans under the Fu family's control, and he figured they wouldn't dare to deceive him. He was simple-minded; although he sensed something strange about the "Senior Wu," he didn't dwell on it. More importantly, having lived in his family for so long and been well-protected by his parents, he was filled with curiosity and longing for adventures in the outside world.

With his mother in seclusion, his father absent, and himself possessing a protective spirit pet bestowed upon him by his father, as well as his innate Star Gu... his strength is sufficient to handle ordinary dangers. Perhaps this is a rare opportunity for training?
With that thought in mind, the young man's adventurous spirit took over. He nodded, trying to make his voice sound more composed: "I do know a little about witchcraft. Since you and my fellow Daoists have invited me, then... I will go with you."

Wu Qi was overjoyed, but remained outwardly composed, praising, "Young friend, you are straightforward!"

He then solemnly instructed everyone: "Everyone, the area of ​​Nongwu Mountain has not yet been fully controlled by any major power, and it is a mixed bag. In order to avoid unnecessary trouble and attract other cultivators to fight over it, we must keep our trip a secret and not tell others where we are going for the time being, so as not to cause any unforeseen complications."

The three disciples, without suspecting anything, nodded in agreement, even abandoning their original plan to send a message to the family.

Fu Yongkong was always obedient. Although he felt it was somewhat inappropriate to conceal his whereabouts, seeing that everyone had agreed, he didn't want to stand out. However, out of his usual caution and concern for his family, he secretly used telepathy to send a simple message to the Star Gu that had been guarding him in the mountains outside the market—

"Don't worry about going to Nongwu Mountain with your friend."

The Star Gu was connected to his mind. After receiving the information, it flapped its wings slightly and transformed into a barely perceptible stream of light, returning to the Fu family's stronghold in Yulin Prefecture to report the news.

...

...

After leaving Yulin Market, the group initially proceeded normally, traveling along the official road. Although this was Fu Yongkong's first long journey, he had been well-versed in the maps and gazetteers of Yulin Prefecture and the surrounding areas since childhood, and was quite sensitive to terrain and direction.

However, as time went by, he gradually realized something was wrong. According to the map, the way to Mount Nongwu should be northeast, but this "Senior Wu" was leading them, and after passing through several forks in the road, they were subtly veering northwest!

The northwest direction is far from the core area of ​​Yulin Prefecture and closer to the northern wilderness and the territory of the Black Witch Village!
"Senior Wu, have we taken the wrong path? This isn't the direction to Nongwu Mountain." Fu Yongkong stopped and couldn't help but ask, his heart filled with vigilance.

Upon hearing this, the three vassal family members also looked at Wu Qi with some confusion.

Wu Qi was startled, not expecting the young man to be so vigilant. He put on a kind smile and explained, "Young friend, you may not know this, but although the official road is closer, there are many people and eyes along the way. I know a hidden path that can bypass several dangerous places and go straight to the heart of Nongwu Mountain, which is much safer."

This explanation seemed reasonable, but Fu Yongkong's unease grew stronger. He remembered his mother, Wu Ling'er, often warning him that the cultivation world was treacherous and one must be wary. This "Senior Wu" exuded a chilling aura, and now she had led him astray, her words evasive…

No! We must notify Mother immediately!

Without making a sound, he pulled his hand back into his sleeve, preparing to crush an emergency communication jade talisman his mother had given him.

However, the moment he made a move, Wu Qi, who had been focusing most of his attention on him, revealed a fierce glint in his eyes!
"Youngster, you're looking for death!"

Wu Qi dropped all pretense and roared, unleashing his Golden Core stage spiritual pressure, instantly stunning the three disciples beside him who were only at the Foundation Establishment stage, rendering them unable to move and turning their faces deathly pale!

With a flick of his sleeve, a thick, inky black smoke, writhing with countless pained faces—[Black Night Fiend]—sweeped out, like a living python, instantly binding the four, including Fu Yongkong, tightly! The black smoke not only imprisoned their physical bodies, but also unleashed a sinister power that surged straight into their consciousness. Before the four could even utter a cry of alarm, everything went black, and their consciousness sank.

Wu Qi moved with lightning speed, taking out a specially made [Qiankun Bag] with an inner space. The bag opened, and a suction force pulled the four people who had lost the ability to resist, along with the Black Night Fiend who was binding them, into it.

He cautiously scanned his surroundings, and after confirming that no one had noticed, he quickly cast a spell to erase all traces of the fight and spiritual energy fluctuations, as if the four of them had never been there.

Having done all this, Wu Qi dared not linger for a moment. He rode an inconspicuous streak of light and sped toward the Black Witch Village at top speed.

Speechless all the way.

Having successfully returned to Black Witch Village and avoided the sight of ordinary disciples, Wu Qi directly sneaked into his village chief's residence and activated multiple layers of restrictions. He went deep into the bedroom and tapped several times in a specific order on a seemingly ordinary wall. The wall silently slid open, revealing a deep staircase leading downwards behind it.

Descending the stairs leads to an even more secluded and eerie underground chamber. The chamber is chillingly cold, with fluorite embedded in the walls emitting a ghastly green glow. In the center remains the same dark green pool of venom, in which twelve bronze coffins float, exuding a nauseating stench.

Wu Qi took out the Qiankun Bag, looked at the opening of the bag, and revealed a long-suppressed, twisted, and greedy smile.

"Finally... finally, I've waited for you! With your immense fortune, my Gu King will surely sweep across the Northern Frontier! Hahaha!"

(End of this chapter)