Chapter 20: Their Relief

"If we buy a whole mall, how will we transport it? And isn't just a waste to buy a whole mall of we can't protect it? Mother Lu voiced her concerns with a frown.

"Indeed. Plus, if we amass too many goods, we might attract unnecessary attention," Grandma Shen pondered.

Encouraged by her family's support, Su Jin felt a surge of confidence. In her previous life, she often found herself isolated, navigating a troubled world. Sometimes she questioned her purpose, even likening herself to the very zombies she fought against. But now, surrounded by her loved ones, all of her doubts seemed to dissipate. Everything in front of her, including the person standing by her side, felt like a second chance, a departure from the loneliness she once endured.

"Mom, wife, what if we rent a few large houses in a budget-friendly area near our location? We could use them as temporary warehouses and store all the materials we purchase there. If anyone asks, we can simply say we're planning to open a nearby supermarket," Father Lu suggested, his idea brimming with practicality.

Mother Lu and Grandma Shen's eyes lit up with realization. Why hadn't they thought of that before? "That's a great idea!"

Others gave the them curious glances. After all, it was the end of the world – 'why were these women so animated?'

Finally, amidst the planning and discussion, Lu Zhi found the right moment to share her exciting news. "Grandparents, Mom, Dad, Brothers, Lian, I have something I want to show you all."

The group's attention shifted to her, their expressions a mix of excitement, anticipation, and concern. The brothers were particularly concerned, wondering if there still something about her they didn't know.

Then, they watched as Lu Zhi closed her eyes, appearing to concentrate. Her hair danced in the air as if caught in a gentle breeze. Gradually, a three-dimensional cube materialized from her brow, leaving the family astonished. Lu Zian instinctively moved forward to check on her, but Shen Lian held him back, shaking his head. Shen Lian knew she was using her [SPATIAL MANIPULATION] power, which was connected to his [TIME MANIPULATION] power. Unbeknownst to him, as she activated her power, the tattoo on his forehead became visible.

When Lu Zhi eventually opened her eyes, the family looked at her with concern. She smiled and chanted softly yet powerfully, [soul container]. Suddenly, everyone found themselves standing in a vast, white expanse, with mist wafting through the air. Lu Zhuli rubbed his eyes in disbelief. "What ****?"

Others were equally bewildered, especially Shen Lian, who felt an inexplicable familiarity with the surroundings. And now he understands why she wasn't greedy for those malls he offered.

Lu Zhi smiled and began her explanation, "This place is called the [soul container], an ability derived from my second power, [SPACE MANIPULATION]. It allows me to create a unique container capable of storing various entities, from inanimate objects to living beings, and even entire ecosystems. The effectiveness of this power depends on my mastery level of [SPACE MANIPULATION], which is currently at level one." She went on to detail the potential uses, conditions, and the key symbol that could unlock it for anyone, anywhere, provided the owner allowed access.

"Can something this incredible really exist?"

"Is my sister a protagonist in a novel? This is like a cheat."

"Guess we'll have to learn farming from the grandparents then, right?"

"What's the trade-off for the key, my granddaughter?" Grandpa Shen asked, aware of the significance of this treasure, which could serve as both protection and vulnerability.

"Grandpa, the key grants access for anyone who possesses it. However, upon obtaining the key, a protective force will prevent the holder from discussing the container. Apart from the master of the space – me – no one can bring anything in or out of it," Lu Zhi explained, hoping they would understand the importance of safeguarding this haven.

"Hahaha!" Grandpa Shen laughed heartily. "Is that all? Let's do it!" The others agreed, their comments filled with enthusiasm for the new space.

With a sweeping gesture through the air, Lu Zhi conjured a misty key symbol, then flicked it toward each person's wrist. They silently pronounced a phrase, and a faint white key symbol materialized, inconspicuous yet significant.

Lu Zhi's gaze turned to Shen Lian, her scrutiny intense. 'His key seems different. Is it because we're inherently connected?' With a mental shake, she returned her focus to the moment and snapped her fingers.

Instantly, everyone found themselves back in the living room, where they had been. Lu Zhi explained, "Due to my current level one mastery, we can't stay in the [Soul Container] for more than 30 minutes at a time. And I can only store small object and non-living items within... But you don't have to worry because before the Eternal Eclipse came, I make this better space."