I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 165

Chapter 165: The bottom card is the training your brother gave you.

Gu Changge wasn’t surprised by Gu Xian’er’s choice. After all, who could resist the pull of greed in the entire world? Plus, he knew well enough how financially strapped Gu Xian’er was. Before confronting her, Gu Changge had thoroughly prepared, even uncovering the depths of Gu Xian’er’s poverty.

He understood her money-loving tendencies all too well. Thus, he uttered those words to appear more comprehensive in his actions. He couldn’t easily betray his character in front of Gu Xian’er.

As for the ten divine weapons, they were his small gesture of compensation to Gu Xian’er. Despite his facade, Gu Changge wasn’t entirely cold-hearted. He still recognized the kindness Gu Xian’er had shown him.

However, he had plans and would only let go of Gu Xian’er slowly. In Gu Changge’s view, after today, Gu Xian’er would likely be even more resolute in her belief that there was a hidden secret regarding the “bone-digging matter” from the past. She would inevitably seek the truth.

Gu Changge believed he could employ other methods, as the current approach was insufficient. Gu Xian’er still needed to be convinced of him.

Things need to get more interesting.

He narrowed his eyes slightly as he glanced at Gu Xian’er. Then, he allowed her to choose the ten divine weapons herself.

At that moment, Gu Xian’er remained unfazed. She was about to take advantage of such a golden opportunity to pay Gu Changge for his actions.

“If it’s an equal exchange, then it’s fair. This healing divine pill of mine isn’t ordinary; it took considerable effort to obtain,” she explained, addressing Gu Changge while reassuring herself.

Gu Changge sat at the pinnacle, his robe billowing without a breeze, his gaze steady as he observed Gu Xian’er.

Buzz!

The light emitted by the Divine Weapon collection resembled that of a treasure trove, dazzling and overwhelming. Suddenly, the large red bird perched on Gu Xian’er’s shoulder chirped as if conveying a message to her.

Gu Xian’er’s expression shifted from surprise to a hint of pride. Her gaze briefly meeting Gu Changge’s with an implicit accusation as if to say, “This is your doing.”

“So, you understand bird language too,” Gu Changge remarked, glancing at the bird and acknowledging its talent for treasure hunting. However, recognizing it as Gu Xian’er’s companion, he harbored no intention of harming it.

At that moment, the large red bird felt a shiver pass through its soul as if it were being scrutinized by something. Though the sensation vanished as swiftly as it came, it left the bird trembling, casting a fearful glance at Gu Changge.

As Gu Xian’er sensed the bird’s unease, she felt her displeasure growing. She wondered why Gu Changge’s comment sounded derogatory.

“You’re the one who understands bird language,” she retorted, shooting him a disappointed look. For her, communication with Da Hong, the bird, had led to the discovery of many valuable items.

Despite his pale complexion, Gu Changge couldn’t suppress a faint smile.

I find this large red bird quite impressive. How about lending it to your brother for a few days?

His expression no longer seemed as strained as before, hinting at a shift in his demeanor. This sudden change left Gu Xian’er inwardly perturbed. She had touched upon a sensitive topic with Gu Changge. The swiftness of this reversal was astounding.

“Don’t even consider it,” Gu Xian’er firmly rejected Gu Changge’s proposition, dismissing his unrealistic idea outright.

The large red bird had accompanied Gu Xian’er from Peach Village, but their relationship was far from that of partners. Gu Changge, with his thoughts fixated on indulging in peaches, hardly seemed like a thief in this scenario.

Hurry up and choose. You’re acting like you’ve never seen a weapon before. It’s just ten; do you need to take so long?

Gu Changge’s casual demeanor, reminiscent of a nouveau riche, betrayed his indifference. Secretly seething, Gu Xian’er vowed to one day wield more divine weapons than Gu Changge and humiliate him. But for now, she resolved not to bother him further, especially given his severe injury. Otherwise, today’s bullying would never cease.

Guided by the large red bird, Gu Xian’er swiftly selected ten diverse divine weapons from Gu Changge’s treasury. Despite her choices, she couldn’t help but covet many other items. If not for Gu Changge’s presence, she might have resorted to her means to acquire them.

In the past, Gu Xian’er had considered herself affluent, with abundant divine weapons, spiritual pills, divine medicines, and ancient legacies. However, in the presence of Gu Changge, she realized the true meaning of wealth.

Gu Changge, not one to disappoint, closed the Divine Weapon Collection, ignoring Gu Xian’er’s reluctant gaze.

“I have another healing divine medicine. One might not suffice for your injury…”

Gu Xian’er’s words were devoid of embarrassment, her expression and tone cold as she seemingly considered Gu Changge’s well-being. To an outsider, it might seem genuine.

“Gu Xian’er, I think you’re more concerned about peaches.”

Gu Changge interjected, a playful grin on his lips. Despite her occasional naivety, Gu Xian’er’s upbringing in Peach Village had sharpened her wits.

It was inconceivable for ordinary individuals to seek advantage from her. Many would easily be swayed by her appearance alone.

“I’ll tell you, injuring your origin… it’s crucial to recuperate and consume more divine pills. There’s no harm in that. Five divine weapons for one divine medicine—for the sake of your injury, I’m willing to take a small loss,” Gu Xian’er stated earnestly, her gaze fixed on Gu Changge. Despite his rejection, she remained resolute, undeterred.

In response, Gu Changge shifted the conversation lightly.

“It’s better to abandon your schemes in my presence. Otherwise, Gu Xian’er, do you believe I won’t hesitate to end you?”

His words caused Gu Xian’er’s expression to falter. She had momentarily forgotten that Gu Changge was her adversary; bargaining with him was futile.

Nevertheless, she couldn’t believe that Gu Changge would genuinely harm her. “Can you tell me the truth about all of this?” she implored, her expression betraying her inner turmoil.

“What truth?” Gu Changge responded rhetorically, feigning ignorance.

“It’s obvious at this point…” Gu Xian’er’s frown deepened, sensing Gu Changge’s reluctance to delve into the matter.

I don’t understand what you’re getting at, Gu Xian’er. You’re overthinking things.

Gu Changge’s expression turned cold, signaling his unwillingness to engage further.

“Then why spare me? Why protect and compensate for past grievances?”

Gu Xian’er’s emotions surged, her words laced with urgency.

“Gu Xian’er, don’t overestimate your importance. I spare you because I’m now the young master of the Gu family, and I must consider our reputation. And as for your supposed protector, if not for his influence, do you truly believe I’d refrain from taking action?”

Gu Changge’s laughter dripped with mockery, dismissing Gu Xian’er’s innocence.

These words blended truth and deceit, reflecting Gu Changge’s complex motivations. He sought to gauge Gu Xian’er’s reaction, uncertain if she would believe his words.

“Gu Changge, stop with the lies…”

Gu Xian’er’s complexion paled upon hearing his response. While she anticipated Gu Changge’s dishonesty, his callousness still struck her.

Resolute, she intended to investigate the matter and avenge past grievances thoroughly. With her purpose fulfilled, she prepared to depart.

Gu Changge’s interest was piqued as he observed her reaction. Her response aligned with his expectations.

However, their interaction was interrupted by urgent news from outside the hall.

“Master, there’s a significant issue…”

The report halted Gu Xian’er’s departure abruptly, stirring her curiosity.

“A significant issue? What’s the matter?” Gu Changge inquired calmly, masking any concern.

“Three hundred miles away, many ancient immortal creatures have gathered on a mountain peak. They appear poised for an attack,” the follower reported dutifully.

More ancient immortal creatures? Another group seeks their demise.

Gu Changge muttered, a slight furrow forming on his brow.

In his weakened state due to severe injuries, Gu Changge faced relentless attacks from the ancient immortal creatures, particularly those of the Feathered clan. Despite their persistent assaults, he refrained from retaliating, opting instead for honest recuperation. Yet, the audacity of their continued attacks bewildered him.

His gaze shifted towards Gu Xian’er, recognizing an opportunity to leverage her assistance.

“Which ethnic group is responsible? Did you get a clear look?” Gu Changge inquired.

“It appears to be the Feathered clan,” the man outside the hall responded respectfully.

“The Feathered clan dares to challenge me at this juncture…”

Gu Changge lamented with a hint of regret, likening himself to a tiger bullied by a dog. Then, his gaze returned to Gu Xian’er.

“What’s with the stare? Do you expect me to aid you? Not a chance,” Gu Xian’er retorted, sensing a foreboding presence emanating from Gu Changge.

“You’ll assist,” Gu Changge asserted, his smile tinged with intrigue.

“In your dreams.”

With determination, Gu Xian’er left the palace, unwilling to stay in the presence of Gu Changge after their argument. Although angered by Gu Changge’s actions, she found solace in his non-life-threatening injuries, ensuring he would survive until her revenge was enacted.

“Master, how should we handle the Feathered clan?” the follower inquired as he scrutinized the hall’s interior.

Aware of Gu Changge’s weakened state and the formidable nature of the Feathered clan, he sought guidance.

“Capture them alive if possible; otherwise, eliminate them,” Gu Changge ordered indifferently, disregarding their lives.

“Yes, master,” the follower acknowledged before retreating. Meanwhile, Gu Changge handed him a pill shimmering with a radiant glow. Unbeknownst to many, this pill contained a strand of sword energy from his true realm.

Although the power of this sword’s energy was not exceptionally strong, the divine force it unleashed upon consumption could swiftly dispatch a quasi-supreme in mere seconds. To outsiders, this method appeared to manifest Gu Changge’s formidable heritage, intended for single use only.

The younger generations of ancient tribes who dared to confront him sought to exhaust this ultimate card of his. Little did they know, Gu Changge could effortlessly fabricate such “inheritances,” rendering them seemingly inexhaustible.

Furthermore, these dan pills could be activated upon crushing, releasing sword energy imbued with profound laws beyond any capabilities among the younger generation. Thus, no one could only withstand this sword energy through their means.

From Gu Changge’s perspective, offering these heads was akin to a futile endeavor. However, Gu Xian’er’s arrival had unfortunately coincided with the Feathered clan’s attack. Did she truly believe she could depart unscathed?

Even if Gu Xian’er had no intentions of engaging, the onslaught from the Feathered clan would inevitably compel her to act. Exiting the hall, Gu Changge proceeded toward the ruins’ outskirts to observe the unfolding spectacle.

An intense battle had raged near the ruins, with divine light piercing the heavens. Bolstered by the pills bestowed by Gu Changge, the confrontation appeared decidedly one-sided.

The terrible feathered creatures succumbed rapidly to the sword’s energy, disintegrating one after another with a series of explosive bursts, enveloping the sky in a crimson haze.

As the mountain breeze swept through, a chill settled in the air. Gu Changge’s complexion grew even paler, betraying his weakened state. He delicately covered his mouth with a handkerchief, stifling a cough. Observing this, his attendants promptly fetched a stone chair, urging him to rest.

“Gu Xian’er, this is the trial your brother has prepared for you.”

Gu Changge remarked, his eyes narrowing with intrigue. Before long, he spotted Gu Xian’er amidst the tumult of battle, her expression fraught with distress.