Chapter 003: Continuation of the Lineage

Amidst the rhythmic sound of the wooden fish, the totem of the ancient magic elephant has been completed. Subsequently, just as before, it transformed into a point of light and concealed itself within one of Hong Yu's acupoints. Each time this occurs, Hong Yu feels quite frustrated, as he does not know exactly which acupoint it is.

However, the location where the Ancient Demon Elephant Totem is concealed is near his left arm. Within the acupoint, the Ancient Demon Elephant lets out a furious roar, expelling streams of dark golden light that flow along Hong Yu's arm.

During these three months, he had no intention of going out; he planned to study the characteristics of the novice monk and the ancient demon elephant totem at home. It was just right that no one disturbed him. Thus, Hong Yu calmly replied, "I understand."

He devoured five large bowls of rice in a whirlwind manner, downed a jar of wild beast bone soup in one go, wiped his mouth, and said: "Alright, big brother, I am full now. Please go ahead and speak."

Upon reaching the realm of Hong Shen, his spiritual perception naturally extends ten zhang beyond his body. If he deliberately focuses his awareness, it can reach thirty zhang. Even the slightest movement of an ant beneath the soil cannot escape his spiritual perception.

Hong Lie discerned his thoughts and waved his hand, saying: "This time the match is not certain, there are still three months to go, and it will be the Xiushan Autumn Festival. Grandfather has invested heavily this year and sponsored the Xiushan Autumn Festival. You should take your time to choose at the festival; whoever you like, their family will help you propose."

Hong Shen's hands trembled slightly as he pulled the door, but his expression remained impassive

He let out a quiet sigh and sat cross-legged in a corner of the courtyard. Several clusters of green bamboo obscured his figure; with his third-grade divine power, even if someone were to pass by at that moment, they would not notice that another person was sitting here.

Old Master Hong Shengri was even more puzzled upon hearing Hong Shen's report: "He agreed just like that?"

Hong Yu has always remembered the kindness of Hong Lie. At present, the person he identifies with the most in the entire Hong family is this elder brother. Upon hearing that Hong Lie was waiting for him outside, he quickly tidied up, put away the wooden fish and bricks, and got up to go out.

The two brothers went to the family restaurant together. Hong Shengri and Hong Yilan must have already eaten, as the spacious restaurant contained only the two brothers. Hong Lie seemed a bit distracted, having reached outside the plate with his chopsticks several times.

Thus, as he walked along, he did not need to look around to know how many people were in the surrounding houses; he was fully aware. After entering the courtyard, he instinctively sensed his task objective, but the three-story wooden building where Hong Yu resided was completely empty!

As the mind technique operates, he transforms the myriad stars in the sky into strands of pale golden energy, drawing them into his body through every pore, and then converting them into pure martial energy

Having seen off everyone, Hong Shen was responsible for closing the door to the military library: "Second Young Master, please feel free to give any instructions you may have, and I assure you that no one will disturb you"

The moment he saw Hong Yu, the presence of Hong Yu immediately appeared in his perception. But how could this be? He was very certain that he would not be mistaken; just as he entered the courtyard, he clearly did not sense Hong Yu's presence.

Second Young Master

Thank you. Hong Yu slightly nodded, continuing the habit from the previous life, and naturally expressed his gratitude.

Hong Yu furrowed his brow, having previously stated that he should not be disturbed.

Hong Lie's face flushed, and he was at a loss for words. Hong Shengri shot him a glare and waved his hand, saying: "Issue a command, from now until the start of the Xiushan Autumn Conference at https://mhetushu.com, Hong Yu is not allowed to step out of the Hong residence! No matter who comes to visit, the doorman is to block them directly and must not report it!"

Hong Yu's wonderful fantasy of being a carefree playboy under the great tree of the Hong family is likely to remain unfulfilled

Sigh

Hong Lie explained everything clearly to Hong Yu. Before leaving, he still felt a bit uneasy and reminded him: "Second brother, you really don't need to resist too much. After all, everyone is going to get married. With our background, whether you are a failure or a genius, fate in marriage is not something we can control."

The Qingyuan Continent is actually highly developed, both economically and in medicine; however, the two individuals have secretly sought medical treatment for over six months without any significant results

Hong Shen waited for a moment, but seeing no further intense reaction from Hong Yu, he stood there in surprise. Hong Yu, puzzled, asked: "Uncle Shen, is there anything else?"

He saw Hong Yu lying on the bed through the window, sleeping very peacefully

Hong Yu did not concern himself with much; he was truly hungry. This kind of enlightenment and cultivation is extremely exhausting physically. Moreover, his body was indeed very weak at the moment and urgently needed nutritional replenishment

However, this giant elephant totem appears somewhat illusory compared to the monk's dharma in the "Secret Research Sutra," lacking a certain solidity. Hong Yu speculated that either the "Northern Wilderness True Scripture" is not as grand and profound as the "Secret Research Sutra," or that this "Northern Wilderness True Scripture" is incomplete

Fortunately, while cultivating, one can also release their spiritual awareness to monitor every move of Hong Yu

He glanced at Hong Lie, feeling an overwhelming sense of emotion. Under the flourishing influence of the new dynasty's online literature, Hong Yu did not actually harbor any aversion to the term "stud horse." In fact, he even muttered to himself: If only you, big brother, could be a bit more ambitious, a true young genius capable of supporting the entire Hong family, I would be more than happy to play the role of a carefree stud horse, what a delightful life that would be

Hong Lie quickly waved his hand: "Second brother, you must not think this way. You are my younger brother, you are the second young master of the Hong family. As long as I, your elder brother, am here, no one will change this fact"

Elder brother Hong Lie is already 18 years old. He got married last year, and his wife is the youngest legitimate daughter of the Lei family, which ranks last among the six major Baodong families. However, the young couple has "strived" for a year without any significant results

Hong Shen spoke from behind the door: "Young Master Yu, it is already quite late; Young Master Lie has been waiting for you for half a day."

After sitting cross-legged, Hong Shen thought for a moment and, for the sake of caution, released his spiritual awareness to cover the entire courtyard within a radius of thirty zhang

Hong Sheng had just been quite certain that Hong Yu could not be up to any tricks, but unexpectedly, upon entering the courtyard, he discovered that Hong Yu was missing. This shock was not trivial. He swiftly appeared on the third floor of the small building, and just as he was about to break in, he suddenly came to a halt.

Hong Lie chuckled dryly, feeling somewhat helpless as he said, "Er, this is also for your own good"

Hong Lie said, somewhat enviously, "Actually, Grandpa still cares for you the most. Unlike me back then, he just handed me a person and that was that"

Hong Yu expressed his apologies, saying: "I have kept you waiting for a long time, elder brother"

This sigh is, in fact, Hong Yu's regret, but Hong Lie believes that his younger brother is troubled by the fact that his "fate" is beyond his control. When he married his wife Lei Yuanyuan, it was also arranged by Old Master Hong, as he had another beloved. Therefore, at this moment, he feels great sympathy for his younger brother, with red eyes, he grasps his brother's hand and says: "Second brother, put in more effort, strive to give our Hong family more offspring. By then, no matter how you act, Grandfather will not blame you."

As soon as the phantom of the giant elephant appeared, Hong Yu felt an illusion, as if his grandfather were standing right in front of him. The aura was strikingly similar to the pressure exerted by Hong Shengri just moments ago

As he spoke, he noticed Hong Yu looking at him with a strange expression, and he gradually lost his confidence. From initially being proud, he became increasingly subdued, and finally, his face turned red: "Isn't it all your fault for causing trouble!"

Such a person as Hong Yu cannot escape his own spiritual awareness. Therefore, there is only one possibility: his cultivation method is not complete, and there are hidden flaws that he is unaware of

Hong Lie's face flushed with embarrassment, feeling somewhat exposed, yet he looked at Hong Yu with even greater surprise: "Second Brother... when did you become so clever?"

He thought of this possibility early in the morning, and thus rushed into the military library without hesitation. Now he could finally verify it, and he felt a bit anxious in his heart

Hong Lie was overjoyed; it was excellent that the second son was willing to cooperate. However, he did not realize that Hong Yu had already made up his mind: he intended to be an independent stallion! He was resolutely against mating with the person chosen by the old master.

... ...

Who is the other party?" Hong Yu's tone was somewhat cold

Old Master Hong was anxious, and Hong Lie was also filled with gloom

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Hong Yu's face flushed with embarrassment; he certainly understood that the Four Seas Trading Company was the one he had forcibly taken over to purchase contraband. At that time, he had not regarded the ten-six gold bricks with any importance, not expecting that among the main candidates, there would actually be a daughter from the Yang family

However, these women are now the best choice

The runes within those golden rays gradually shattered, the golden light converging and solidifying into the form of a giant elephant, with tusks like blades, its body clad in heavy black bone armor, and a massive bone mace attached to its tail, covered in sharp bone spines. One could have no doubt that a single swing of its tail could crush a small mountain

Hong Lie said proudly: "Although we are at fault in this matter, our Hong family is not the kind of family that is forced to marry off our daughters. At most, we can only give them one chance."

Hong Yu waved his hand and said, "Brother, let's go. What brings you to find me?"

Unfortunately, ideals are abundant, while reality is stark. Hong Lie possesses mediocre talent; whether in martial arts, governance, or even business, he shows no significant aptitude. Clearly, the Hong family cannot place their hopes on him.

Hong Lie is magnanimous; although he feels that the second brother was truly not clever in the past, he does not want to say it directly, allowing him to brush it off. Any shrewder person would definitely not let him change the subject so easily.

On the left side behind his desk stands an ancient stone tablet, while on the right side is a finely crafted suit of armor

He does not reject stallions, but the "breeding rights" should always be in his own hands, right? Hong Lie coming to talk to him about this clearly indicates that the marriage partner has already been determined.

He placed the "Northern Wilderness Scripture" in front of him, and the wooden stick fell.

Hong Yu murmured to himself: This Li Xiaoxiao specifically came to the capital, and her intentions are likely not simple

Hong Yu wore a look of frustration on his face, committing these names to memory, vowing not to choose them when the time came

The Hong family is not thriving, and it seems that their lineage is on the verge of extinction. The only hope now rests on Hong Yu

Hong Lie observed the expression on his face and immediately felt a twinge of guilt. These families were not even remotely comparable to the prestigious Hong family, one of the Four Great Pillars. It could be said that if it were not for Hong Yu's notorious reputation, any one of these women would be a blessing beyond measure to be associated with him.

The golden light sand of the Sha Mi Fa Xiang made Hong Yu feel very comfortable, but it seems that no direct benefits have been discovered yet. On the other hand, the ancient magic elephant totem has an immediate effect. The dark golden light emitted from it flows along his left arm, immediately beginning to strengthen his bones and muscles, and even his blood vessels and meridians seem to be expanding

Hong Lie let out a dry laugh and said: "This time at the Xiushan Autumn Festival, it is said that the foremost talented woman of Lucheng, Li Xiaoxiao, will also participate. Rumor has it that Li Xiaoxiao not only possesses extraordinary literary talent, rivaling that of our great Xia's scholars, but is also as beautiful as a flower, renowned as the most beautiful woman in Southeast Great Xia."

Hong Lie did not hide the truth from him: "The mess you created has drawn the old master of the Yang family to come personally. I exhausted all my good words, and only then did the old master Yang relent and tell me that the Sihai Trading Company is the dowry he prepared for his eldest daughter, Yang Yiyun! What more can I say? You have occupied someone else's daughter's dowry..."

This is the legendary divine beast of the Northern Wilderness, the Primordial Demon Elephant. The "Northern Wilderness Scripture" was created by imitating the supernatural powers of the Primordial Demon Elephant

The sound was identical to that of striking a wooden fish. With this strike of the wooden fish, a rich golden light sand surged forth from the "Northern Wilderness Scripture," quickly forming a rune.

Hong Shen faithfully executed the orders of the old general, showing no leniency towards Hong Yu. He entered the military library and conducted a thorough inspection before finally cupping his fist towards Hong Yu and saying, "Young Master Yu, there are no issues. You may leave now"

... ...

Hong Lie suddenly slapped his forehead: "Right, there is actually one more person to choose, but... it might be a bit difficult"

Yes, General

Hong Yu glanced at him sideways and said, "Elder brother, you really are not good at lying. Grandfather's actions clearly show that he is afraid of randomly assigning someone to me, fearing that this stubborn mule, who is unaware of the heights of heaven and the depths of the earth, will cause a scene at the wedding. Moreover, among the choices I have this time, there are no girls from the Six Great Baodong or the Ten Great Jinliang families, right?"

Lucheng is the largest city in the southeastern direction of the Great Xia Dynasty, with a highly developed economy. Each year, the commercial taxes of Lucheng account for more than twenty percent of the total commercial taxes of the Great Xia.

Hong Shen secretly curled his lips, not quite agreeing. With Hong Yu's previous intelligence, he could only be played by conspiracies; how could he be the one to play with conspiracies?

The dignified third-rank official stuttered while speaking! After coming out, Hong Shen could only smile wryly and shake his head, feeling even more puzzled in his heart: What on earth is going on with Young Master Yu?

Hong Yu shook his head; Hong Lie had actually misunderstood his meaning

Although there are many servants in the Hong residence, it is truly too easy for a third-rank celestial being to conceal their presence

Hong Shengri, feeling a wave of suspicion, stroked his chin and said, "Something is not right; this little rascal must have some sort of scheme!"

Hong Lie felt somewhat indebted to his second brother, but this was arranged by their grandfather, and he was also helpless.

The spacious desk is crafted from raw wood with simple processing. Hong Sheng, having spent his life in the military, does not favor overly intricate objects. He sits upright behind the desk, his expression stern.

Although it has been confirmed that the monk's Dharma characteristics are extraordinary, opportunities of this nature are certainly better when abundant. Hong Yu is merely an ordinary person and cannot escape the psychological influence of *images* and *books*.

After everyone had left, Hong Yu sat alone in front of the enormous bronze long table and took a brick out from his bosom

Hong Lie said: "It's nothing much, just worried that your injury has just healed, and working so hard might take a toll on your body. I had the kitchen prepare some beast bone soup for you to help you recover."

He resolutely cannot accept such an arrangement

However, the "Northern Wilderness Scripture" before him is not a Buddhist scripture; could there still be such a phenomenon? Hong Yu felt uncertain.

Hong Shen received the military order from Hong Shengri, returned to the military library to hand over his duties, and then quietly arrived outside the courtyard where Hong Yu resided

Among the ten major golden beams, there are the four daughters of the Yu family: Yu Yao Le, the eldest daughter of the Wang family, Wang Hong Yu, the eldest daughter of the Si family, Si Yong He, and the eldest daughter of the Yang family, Yang Yi Yun

Hong Shen stood at the window like a ghost, gazing at Hong Yu on the bed, his brows deeply furrowed.

Hong Shenhan was drenched in sweat, but he had no time to reflect on his own martial arts. He was under military orders and had to keep a close watch on Hong Yu

When it comes to the misdeeds of Hong Yu in the past, his disrespect towards his elders can only be considered a mere appetizer. If he disregards his elders, there is even less to say about the family retainers like Hong Shen. In the eyes of the arrogant, ignorant, and foolish second young master, it does not matter whether you are a third-rank official; are you not just a servant of our family? Thank you? It would be a blessing if I do not slap you instead.

What are you saying

Hong Yu secretly cursed himself, almost giving himself away. He smiled wryly and said, "Big brother, I wasn't stupid before, okay?"

is not

He reached out his hand and took out a small wooden stick from his pocket

No more nonsense, just three months' time, he absolutely must not be allowed to hang out with those dubious friends again

Tonight, the starlight is vast. After sitting for a while, Hong Shen began to practice his cultivation method. His "Starfire Divine Furnace" technique focuses on the cultivation of starlight, and each night of starlight is extremely precious to him

The sound of the wooden fish echoed continuously, distant and vast. The "Northern Wilderness Scripture" continuously emitted golden light sand. Unlike the broad, tolerant, and magnanimous nature of the "Secret Research Scripture," the golden mist of the "Northern Wilderness Scripture" revealed a sense of dominance, vastness, and brutality. Within this atmosphere, Hong Yu felt a stirring within himself, as past events flashed before his eyes, igniting an impulse to bring justice to those who had insulted and harmed him, even giving rise to the thought of shattering all the injustices in the world with a single punch

Hong Yu was filled with great joy

He silently slipped into the courtyard, suddenly frowning: Why is there no one in the small building!

The level of the Ancient Magic Elephant Totem is still one tier lower compared to the novice monk's Dharma form, thus the dark golden light only wanders on the left arm and does not extend to the entire body

Hong Yu was at a loss whether to laugh or cry

Haven't you deceived me enough for that little beast?

Hong Shengri let out a cold snort: "Really?"

Hong Yu : `` ... ... ''

From the giant elephant's eyes, nine-colored flames erupted, displaying unparalleled power

According to the previous actions of this master, Hong Lie would not be surprised by any terrible things that Hong Yu might say.

Hong Yu was left speechless: "How can this be! Is he not forcibly trying to give me his daughter? If his daughter is exceedingly ugly, would that not ruin my grand dream of having a beautiful mare?"

In this small courtyard, there are now only Hong Yu and Hong Shen, while the servants are all keeping their distance.

Hong Lie explained the matter somewhat stammeringly, while Hong Yu's expression was peculiar as he said, "So, are you saying that my greatest role for the Hong family now is that of a breeding stallion?"

Did you speak to that little beast? Hong Shengri's study is quite interesting; on the east side, the bookshelf is filled with numerous classic texts, while the bookshelf on the west side is entirely stocked with divine weapons and tools

Hong Yubai rolled his eyes and said, "You can just say that the girl probably doesn't think much of me."

What! ? '' Hong Yu's jaw almost dropped to the ground: `` Marriage? ! ''

Hong Yu was originally worried that during this period, his former friends would come to disturb him, but instead, he received a message from Hong Shen that he had been placed under house arrest

Hong Lie forced a smile and said, "Er, don't overthink it. It's a good thing, you... you are getting married."

Hong Lie shook his head helplessly and stepped back. Hong Shengri's expression was stern as he sat still, waiting for Hong Yu to come and cause a commotion.

The sky has darkened, and the stars are shining brightly. Hong Lie is indeed standing outside, smiling wryly and saying, "Actually, I am not in a hurry."

Hong Lie glanced at him and said, "You still know?"

The Li family is the foremost financial conglomerate in Lu City, possessing substantial assets. However, they have lacked the support of influential officials in the court, which has hindered their efforts to expand their business throughout the entirety of the Great Xia over the years.

Could it be that there is a problem with one's own cultivation technique

It's nothing, big brother. You keep saying you helped me resolve this, but is this really how it was handled? Just adding his daughter to the list of candidates?

As Hong Yuxin's thoughts stirred, he was about to consciously channel the power of the dark golden light throughout his body, when suddenly a voice came from outside

Hong Lie respectfully said: "I have already mentioned that my second brother does not have any strong objections."

Hong Lie felt a bit worried: "But Grandpa, you know how stubborn the second one is. The more you act like this, the more he will want to go out..."

Hong Shen could not help but glance at Hong Yu again: Could it be that this second-generation heir, after being beaten, has actually had a change of heart and gained some insight?

You go and keep a close watch on that little brat, absolutely do not let him pull any tricks. If anything goes wrong, I will hold you accountable!

When Hong Lie spoke these words, he appeared somewhat desolate. Hong Yu could clearly see that his elder brother's marriage was evidently unsatisfactory. With a sympathetic sigh in his heart, he nodded and said, "Elder brother, rest assured, I am well aware of the situation."

Just tell me, which girls from other families are favored by grandfather, and I will try to choose from among them

... ...

Among these few families, some possess considerable potential, some have substantial financial resources, and others have strong external support. To be fair, Hong Shengri's arrangement is indeed for the consideration of Hong Yu, as in the future, once the grandparents pass away, Hong Yu will still have his wife's family to rely on

Hong Yu felt that Hong Lie's demeanor was somewhat off, but he did not dwell on it. He gestured and said, "Then let's go, we will have a meal."

The savage beasts are the most formidable species born within this world, and the rich broth made from their bones is exceptionally fragrant and nourishing, greatly replenishing vital energy and blood

Hong Lie smiled bitterly: "How dare the grandson deceive his grandfather?"

Hong Shen quickly shook his head: "No, there is none..."

Hong Yu suddenly remembered something and asked in confusion, "Yang family? Is it the one behind the Sihai Trading Company?"

It is somewhat inconvenient to strike the table with a brick; it would be better to strike the brick as a monk strikes a wooden fish.

To achieve a strong physique, one must supplement and exercise. In simple terms, it is essential to eat well