Gu Xun'er's little brother

Dou Di Continent, Eastern Region of Zhongzhou, Ancient World!

In a spacious, well-lit, and finely furnished room, a young boy dressed in white sits cross-legged, a set of unusual handprints adorning his hands. A faint white light flows into his body from the outside world as currents of energy nourish him, casting a radiant glow on his youthful, yet determined face.

As the energy currents flow steadily, the young boy in white adjusts his handprints, resulting in a soft, resonating noise emanating from within him.

Pressing his palm against his chest to calm his breath, the boy gradually opens his eyes, revealing a pair of star-like, dazzling orbs.

"The fourth stage of Dou Qi," the boy murmurs to himself, clenching his small fist as he feels the newfound power coursing through him.

"It seems that even in a sealed state, the host's cultivation talent remains exceptional. At your current pace of progress, you could reach the fighter stage within three or four years at most."

A cold voice echoes in the boy's mind, tinged with a hint of resignation.

"If I don't live up to your expectations, would it mean your choice was in vain?" The boy in white playfully extends his palm, his words resonating within his mind.

"Yes, host, you represent the final hope of this system. For entities like us, there are only nine opportunities to select hosts. Succeed, and you'll transcend the constraints of the Supreme Law, becoming a true entity. Fail, and you'll face complete annihilation."

"The first eight choices made by this system ended in failure, leaving only you as my last reliance."

The system's cold voice carries a touch of melancholy. Advanced systems, born from the Great Dao of Heaven and Earth, possess intellect and an eager desire to evolve into actual entities.

The system's path to emancipation is entwined with the host's journey. Only by paving the way for the system's detachment can the host help it break free from the imprinted restrictions and evolve into an autonomous life form.

Every choice made by the system is a gamble. Unfortunately, the first eight attempts resulted in failure.

"Don't worry; choosing me was undoubtedly your wisest decision."

The boy in white chuckles softly, rising to his feet, his confidence emanating from his slightly immature features. This self-assuredness appears innate, deeply ingrained within his core.

"Indeed, the system shares the same sentiment. As the host, you possess not only a formidable physique but also boundless potential, unburdened by destiny."

The system's voice resonates, acknowledging that the boy before it possesses unparalleled talent and limitless potential compared to all the hosts it has encountered. This is why the system has placed its last hopes on him.

If he doesn't succeed, the endeavor will be considered an honorable sacrifice. It's the system's most significant wager.

Listening to the system's sigh, a faint smile graces the lips of the white-clad boy. He strides toward the door.

"After hearing your praises, I find solace within, but can you mend your penchant for deceit?"

"Why would the host say that? Everything this system does, it does for the host's benefit. When has it ever deceived the host?"

"Hehe, if you hadn't deceived me, I wouldn't be in this ancient world now."

Amusement colors the boy's tone as he throws open the door.

...

The door of the emerald-scented room creaks open, revealing a small figure to the boy in white. She wears an exquisite blue dress, with two charming ponytails atop her head. Her skin resembles jade, her small, flawless face akin to a porcelain doll. Large, gem-like eyes gleam brightly.

In this moment, she gazes at the white-clad figure before her, her rosy lips curving into a sweet smile, dimples forming on her cheeks.

"Brother Gu Xiao!" The girl in the blue dress exclaims, running toward the boy and fixing her large, beautiful eyes on him.

"Brother Gu Xiao, have you reached the fourth stage of Dou Qi?"

Her voice is delicate and soft.

"Yes, I've reached the fourth stage of Dou Qi. Xun'er, you should strive as well!"

The white-clad boy smiles, his hand gently ruffling the girl's hair.

Gu Xiao is his name within the ancient clan, and the girl in the blue dress is none other than Gu Xun'er, the daughter of the current clan patriarch, Gu Yuan. She was brought back by Gu Yuan six years ago, making her the same age as him.

Perhaps due to his unique aura, even while sealed, he exudes an extraordinary presence. However, this aura remains elusive, only perceivable by the strong or naturally gifted. Those who sense it feel an uncanny affinity, a pull toward him.

Gu Xun'er, possessing the strong Doudi bloodline, can keenly sense this aura when in close proximity. This innate connection has fostered a close relationship between them, making her unusually fond of him.

"Xun'er, put in the effort, and you'll catch up with Brother Gu Xiao."

Encouraged by Gu Xiao's words, Gu Xun'er clenches her small fist, determination in her eyes.

"I'll work hard, and I'll make it."

Belief fills Gu Xiao's eyes as he gives her a reassuring smile.

"Yeah, I know Xun'er can do it." He chuckles, pinching Gu Xun'er's cheek. This has become his favorite pastime. Her cheeks are so plump and soft, a pleasure to touch.

Gu Xun'er doesn't resist; she's accustomed to his affectionate gestures. Moreover, she enjoys his closeness.

Though only six years old, her potent Doudi bloodline has endowed her with a mature mind. She knows more than her peers, making her a knowledgeable child.

"Xun'er, how's your health now? Have the aftereffects of the Golden Emperor Burning Tianyan subsided?"

Walking hand in hand, Gu Xiao's voice carries genuine concern. Over six years, Gu Xun'er has grown dear to him.

In this unfamiliar world, Gu Xun'er is his sole ally and the only one in the ancient clan who harbors no ill intentions.

After all, the ancient race isn't his sanctuary; it's a peculiar prison."