I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 176

Chapter 176: This is definitely a friendly army, and it will never die and destroy the whole clan

The mountain wind blew, stirring the clouds and mists, lending an air of quiet mightiness to the scene. Gu Xian’er stood gracefully beneath a towering, ancient tree, her skirt swaying gently in the breeze, her eyes bright and translucent, exuding charm and vitality.

“Ancestor, if you truly wish to assist me, then aid me in suppressing his cultivation! Lowering him to the Conferred King Realm would suffice,” she stated firmly.

“I desire to confront Gu Changge openly and fairly,” she reiterated to the elderly ancestor. Her expression carried a hint of cold arrogance.

Observing from the sidelines, the Great Elder couldn’t help but feel a sense of unease. Despite Gu Xian’er’s usual demeanor of obedience, there was always an undercurrent of animosity towards Gu Changge, evident in her bold words. She sought to have him suppress

Gu Changge’s cultivation to a level below hers and then defeats him somewhat? Was this truly fair? She had learned a thing or two from Gu Changge himself. If Gu Changge were present to witness this scene, he would struggle to contain his anger towards Gu Xian’er.

Wasn’t it sufficient to focus on her cultivation and strive for improvement? Why did she need to provoke him when there was no immediate threat? It appeared that Gu Xian’er, in the eyes of the Great Elder, was required to face more adversity.

“Why settle for suppressing his cultivation… Why not seek revenge by eliminating him?” the Elder questioned.

“Xian’er, if that scoundrel Gu Changge is threatening you in any way, you need only inform this old ancestor. He wouldn’t dare act recklessly in my presence,” Gu Nanshan offered, his concern evident.

Upon hearing Gu Xian’er’s casual words, Gu Nanshan fell silent, a sense of disbelief washing over him. He had long believed that Gu Xian’er had been tormented and harmed by Gu Changge during her time at the Heavenly Dao Immortal Palace, and thus, he had sheltered her with great care. However, perhaps he had misjudged her character. How could this seemingly well-behaved and intelligent girl be so easily intimidated by Gu?

The notion of seeking revenge underhandedly suggests she harbored no genuine desire for vengeance. Had he misheard her intentions?

“Old Ancestor, you’re overthinking things. Did you not grasp the full situation before intervening?” Gu Xian’er retorted, her eyes rolling slightly. She couldn’t help but feel that her ancestor was proving unreliable.

The Elder, observing silently, couldn’t help but shake his head inwardly. Despite the formidable power held by the Gu family’s ancestors, facing Gu Changge seemed different. Even he, with his composed demeanor, found himself seething with anger at the thought of Gu Changge. Seeing that toothy old peasant would likely drive him to thoughts of violence against the unworthy descendant.

“Is there more to this than I’ve been made aware of?” Gu Nanshan inquired, his curiosity piqued. He couldn’t shake the feeling that something was being kept from him, especially considering Gu Xian’er’s confident demeanor.

“Ancestor, did you not uncover the truth behind what transpired?” Gu Xian’er queried, her tone tinged with a hint of exasperation.

“Hmm?” Gu Nanshan was genuinely taken aback by this revelation.

“It seems there might be more to this than meets the eye…” he mused aloud.

Gu Xian’er’s unwavering certainty only served to deepen his suspicion. The notion of internal strife and self-harm within the family was entirely uncharacteristic of the Gu clan, leaving him seething with anger upon discovery.

As he reflected on the scenes he had encountered upon leaving his ancestral domain, he recalled encountering several clan members whose expressions seemed oddly suspicious, while the majority appeared outwardly normal.

Now, as the head of the Gu family, Gu Changge’s father couldn’t help but feel a twinge of embarrassment and guilt over the matter. Initially, Gu Nanshan’s reaction was anger, without delving into the details, but Gu Xian’er’s astute observation shed new light on the situation. Suddenly, he found himself piecing things together.

He realised that Gu Changge had unearthed Gu Xian’er’s Dao bone for a specific purpose. Throughout the years, Gu Changge had been lauded as a true immortal, but it was only due to Gu Xian’er’s Dao bone. Gu Nanshan realized that Gu Changge possessed a hidden spatial talent, which, compared to a Dao’s bone, held a far greater significance.

Squinting thoughtfully, Gu Nanshan couldn’t ignore the suspicious nature of the situation now that it had been pointed out by Gu Xian’er. However, he couldn’t afford to appear ignorant before her. Thus, he cleared his throat and adopted a solemn demeanor.

“I hadn’t anticipated you discovering this, Xian’er. I struggled with how to broach the subject, but now that you’ve pieced it together, it’s for the best,” he admitted, though he remained bewildered by the revelation.

Despite his confusion, Gu Nanshan maintained the dignified facade of a family ancestor in front of Gu Xian’er. She, in turn, couldn’t conceal her satisfaction at having her suspicions confirmed. She accepted Gu Nanshan’s words without hesitation.

“Why, then, did you initially speak otherwise, Old Ancestor?” she questioned, a furrow forming on her brow. She had no doubts about Gu Nanshan’s sincerity but was perplexed by his earlier remarks.

Gu Nanshan cleared his throat once more, his expression growing serious. “I merely wished to spare you the discomfort of accepting such truths. Surely, you can appreciate the good intentions behind Gu Changge’s actions now,” he explained, coughing slightly as he did so.

As for Gu Changge’s supposed good intentions, Gu Nanshan remained in the dark. His comment was a mere attempt to divert attention and diffuse tension rather than genuinely reflect Gu Changge’s motives. Nevertheless, it inadvertently served as a catalyst for Gu Xian’er to reconsider her animosity towards him.

Gu Nanshan had no desire to exacerbate family rifts or foster clan discord. He saw this moment as an opportunity to subtly steer Gu Xian’er away from her hatred towards Gu Changge. As long as she remained unharmed and harbored no murderous intent towards him, it seemed best to let their animosity dissolve naturally.

However, this revelation left Gu Xian’er feeling conflicted. “Gu Changge’s good intentions?” she echoed, her expression complex. In retrospect, many things began to make sense.

She realized that Gu Changge’s actions were likely to goad her into hating him, providing her with a target to surpass and ultimately defeat or even kill. The purpose behind her growth suddenly seemed less straightforward and more entangled in Gu Changge’s schemes.

This realization transcended mere guilt; it revealed the most profound secret that Gu Changge had concealed. If he were present to witness the conversation between Gu Nanshan and Gu Xian’er, he would undoubtedly find amusement in the unintended consequences of the old ancestor’s words. Gu Nanshan unwittingly played into Gu Changge’s hands, inadvertently easing his path.

“Yes, Gu Changge’s good intentions,” Gu Nanshan affirmed with a smile, though his understanding was limited.

Observing this exchange, the great Elder found himself momentarily stunned, questioning whether he had misjudged Gu Changge. Could it be that he was actually a decent person? Yet, upon deeper reflection, he dismissed the notion entirely. The concept of Gu Changge being labeled as a “good person” seemed utterly incongruous. It was an association he couldn’t fathom, as it simply didn’t align with Gu Changge’s character.

“However, despite Gu Changge’s inherent demonic nature, his behaviour is surprisingly normal most of the time,” remarked the Great Elder, his previous convictions wavering. “Perhaps he’s not truly malevolent…”

The realization prompted a moment of introspection for the Elder as he reconsidered his prior assessment of Gu Changge.

Subsequently, Gu Xian’er was escorted by the two of them, transforming into divine lights as they ascended into the sky, departing from the scene. With the impending chaos engulfing the Ancient Immortal Continent, Gu Xian’er needed protection. Alone and vulnerable, she would be at significant risk amidst the imminent turmoil.

The events had concluded, and it was time to move on. Despite the turmoil, Gu Xian’er remained an integral figure, bearing the bloodline of the Ancient Immortal Gu family and serving as the direct disciple of the Heavenly Dao Immortal Palace’s great Elder. Her significance could not be overlooked, especially in such tumultuous times.

Meanwhile, unrest brewed across the Ancient Immortal Continent as all significant lineages and sects mobilized their forces to reclaim their dignity and suppress the ancient immortal clans. The latter, incensed by the intrusion of the Feathered People, sought retribution for the chaos wrought upon them.

Many blamed Gu Changge as the instigator of the conflict, viewing him as the epitome of evil. In their eyes, Gu Changge’s actions were calculated and malicious, designed to undermine the Ancient Immortal Continent’s stability for personal gain. His involvement in orchestrating the demise of Long Teng, followed by manipulation of both sides to instigate conflict, further solidified his reputation as a malevolent force.

As tensions escalated, fear of Gu Changge permeated the hearts of many, his formidable presence striking terror into the hearts of countless beings across the continent.

However, countless beings harbored an intense and visceral hatred towards Gu Changge, yearning to tear him apart piece by piece. For the older generation of the ancient immortal clans, this desire for vengeance only compounded Gu Changge’s crimes. It provided the outside world and various influential heritages with the justification they needed to intervene. Gu Changge’s actions had inadvertently provided them with the perfect pretext.

Amidst the turmoil, a deafening rumble echoed through the skies above the Ancient Immortal Continent. An ancient copper warship emerged, its massive form looming ominously overhead like a floating continent, casting terrifying shadows upon the land below. Descending from this vessel were formidable figures from the Divine Sect of the Absolute Beginning.

A middle-aged man clad in resplendent golden armor stood with an air of authority, his hands clasped behind his back as he surveyed the scene below. “Young Master Changge was assaulted by the Divine Artifact of the Feathered Clan,” he declared, his expression grim. “How shall we address this grievance?”

The ancient city ahead, resembling a slumbering feathered giant, sprawled across the landscape, exuding an aura of majesty and dominance. While its walls may not have towered to great heights, they spanned a vast expanse, teeming with the presence of mighty Feathered Clan warriors.

In response to the middle-aged man’s inquiry, a chorus of murderous voices erupted from the ancient copper warships behind him. “We shall hunt down their entire clan until our dying breath!” they bellowed, their words echoing with a chilling intensity as if heralding a storm of bloodshed.

The declaration sent shivers down the spines of nearby cultivators and creatures alike, their expressions contorted in horror at the prospect of the impending carnage.

The tremors rippled not only among the local cultivators but also among those from distant lands. The reputation of the Divine Sect of the Absolute Beginning preceded them—known for their domineering, protective nature and unwavering resolve. Their sudden arrival outside the Feathered Clan’s territory left little doubt about their intentions.

“The Feathered People are truly unfortunate. To be targeted by the Divine Sect of the Absolute Beginning… Even if they survive, they’ll be lucky to escape with their hides intact!” remarked one observer, voicing the sentiments shared by many. “These are nothing short of devilish lunatics!”

The atmosphere grew tense as cultivators recoiled from the imposing presence of the Divine Sect. The prospect of facing such formidable adversaries instilled fear in even the bravest souls. The Feathered People found themselves utterly powerless in the face of this onslaught. Any attempts to justify their actions would prove futile against the might of the Divine Sect.

In the Upper Realm, Gu Changge’s influence loomed considerably, striking fear into all who dared to cross him. Merely uttering a disparaging word in private carried the risk of retribution.

“We’ve never been the aggressors, but we won’t hesitate to defend ourselves against those who threaten us!” proclaimed the middle-aged man in golden armor from the ancient bronze warship. With a cold smile, he delivered a swift kick to the imprisoned Yu Xuan, the current heir of the Feathered Clan. With his pale and handsome visage, Yu Xuan bore the weight of his clan’s fate upon his shoulders.

Yu Xuan’s friendship with Yu Jing, brutally slain by Gu Changge, fueled his fury. However, despite his rage, he found himself powerless to act. Now, as he listened to the middle-aged man’s words, a sense of resignation washed over him, knowing that the impending punishment would be swift and severe.

Yu Xuan’s complexion drained of colour, and his features contorted with pale fury and monstrous anger. “Do you even know who I am? You dare provoke war against the Feathered Clan!” he bellowed, seething humiliation and indignation.

Once on a training journey, Yu Xuan sought the means to advance his strength and seek vengeance against Gu Changge. However, his plans were abruptly interrupted by an ambush from the Divine Sect of the Absolute Beginning. Despite his protector’s valiant efforts, they fell victim to the overwhelming power of the attackers, leaving Yu Xuan to be subdued and transported aboard the ancient bronze warship.

“Don’t fret. The young master has yet to make his grand entrance. The real spectacle is yet to come,” the middle-aged man in golden armor taunted with a chilling smile. “Rest assured, you’ll soon be reunited with your childhood sweetheart, courtesy of the young master. None of your kin will be spared.”

“You’ve overstepped your bounds! Retribution will be swift!” Yu Xuan retorted, his voice trembling with anger and fear. With the middle-aged man’s ominous words, Yu Xuan could already foresee the grim fate awaiting his clan at the hands of the Divine Sect of the Absolute Beginning.

Meanwhile, in the Baiheng Mountains, an aura of pure immortal light permeated the air, transforming the landscape into a veritable paradise. The ethereal glow of immortal energy suffused the surroundings, imbuing the scene with a sense of divine tranquility.

Within a stone chamber, Yue Mingkong radiated a serene presence, her crystalline form exuding a divine aura. Her eyes, bright and profound, betrayed a sense of otherworldly wisdom, casting her in an almost godlike light.

As Yue Mingkong continued her refinement of the immortal dao runes within the stone chamber, her entire being underwent a profound transformation. Initially, she had only gleaned minimal benefits from the crack in the door. Still, with Gu Changge having fully opened the portal, a deluge of dense immortal energy cascaded down upon her like rain. While her primary focus remained to safeguard Gu Changge from external threats, she also reaped tremendous rewards.

Amidst the rumbling echoes reverberating within the stone gate, the downpour of light intensified, enveloping the chamber in a hazy, vast illumination. From the depths of the mysterious realm beyond, a cacophony of tumultuous sounds erupted, reminiscent of chaotic thunder crackling in the distance.

Suddenly, a figure emerged from within the luminous downpour, a large treasure bottle perched atop their head, their form obscured by shadows. They swiftly dashed forth, trailed closely by a mighty thunderous force.

Yue Mingkong’s gaze narrowed in suspicion as she observed the figure’s approach. What she saw left her astounded—a multitude of strange and terrifying creatures emerged from the depths of the realm, engaging in a fierce battle against the thunderous onslaught. Some were colossal in size, exuding an aura of palpable majesty, while others possessed a formidable presence akin to that of the Sacred Realm.

The revelation shook Yue Mingkong to her core. Gu Changge had ascended to the Sacred Realm, a feat that sent tremors of awe and trepidation through her being. Was this his actual cultivation? The realization left her trembling as she pondered the implications. Not only would Gu Changge stand unrivalled among his peers, but few would dare to challenge his supremacy, even among the older generation. His sheer might was undeniably tyrannical in every sense of the word.