I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 180

Chapter 180: Don’t give me the favors in vain and start to confuse Gu Xian’er again.

Certainly, Gu Xian’er was considered the daughter of luck, bearing two formidable protagonist templates. Whether it was the peach tree in Peach Village or the formidable allies backing her, she was not to be underestimated.

From the outset, Gu Changge had no intention of harming Gu Xian’er. He had orchestrated numerous strategies with a different purpose in mind. Under his “guidance,” Gu Xian’er, though initially naive, found herself under his control. It wouldn’t be long before she realized his true intentions.

Gu Changge was sure that Gu Xian’er harbored no murderous intent towards him. At most, she was angry and sought retribution for her losses. However, Gu Changge paid little heed to her desire for revenge, exerting his influence to keep her subdued.

Given the ancestor’s guilt towards Gu Xian’er, Gu Changge understood the importance she held for their lineage. His goal was simple: as the ancestor of Gu Xian’er’s lineage, Gu Nanshan wouldn’t want to see it decline. Furthermore, Gu Changge’s actions were acceptable and garnered approval from many clan elders, as they benefited the entire family.

The reason was apparent: the Immortal Continent was a vast opportunity, and Gu Changge’s intervention ensured the Gu family claimed the largest share. His strategic prowess impressed the younger generation, assuring them that the family’s future was secure in his hands.

Even if Gu Nanshan wished to reprimand him, he would have to do so discreetly. Gu Xian’er’s situation was precarious; though she was the young princess of the Ancient Immortal Gu family, no one dared acknowledge her status for fear of offending Gu Changge.

Gu Changge’s status within the Gu family was akin to the sky, rendering those who wished to vindicate Gu Xian’er’s clan silent out of fear.

Additionally, the Seventh Princess of the Sea Palace met her demise at the hands of Gu Xian’er. Gu Changge deemed it necessary to take action on this matter.

“It just so happens to involve the Ancient Immortal Dragon Clan, the most formidable opponent,” Gu Changge mused. “But this presents a fantastic opportunity.”

With a narrowed gaze, Gu Changge initiated his plan. Majestic auras descended upon the Immortal Ancient Continent and reverberated throughout the heavens, drawing the attention of many elders and disciples of the Heavenly Dao Immortal Palace.

An ancient and colossal warship exuding a powerful aura settled atop the Supreme Peak.

“Welcome, Young Lord!” Many formidable figures from the Divine Sect of the Absolute Beginning gathered, their expressions reverent.

Gu Changge acknowledged their greetings with a slight nod, instructing them to settle and rest at the Supreme Peak. The other great sects were stationed within the mountain gate of the Heavenly Dao Immortal Palace.

Though such actions could be seen as provocative, within the Heavenly Dao Immortal Palace, no one dared utter a word against it. Gu Changge’s power had reached unparalleled heights.

“How goes the operation?” Gu Changge inquired.

“My lord, the remnants of the Feathered clan scattered across the world have been dealt with,” replied a group of strong individuals from the Divine Sect of the Absolute Beginning respectfully. They had been tasked with following Gu Changge’s orders and eliminating obstacles within the Immortal Ancient Continent.

The Feathered clan had been the primary target, but many scattered clan members remained even after their defeat.

“Excellent,” Gu Changge nodded in satisfaction. True to his principle of eradicating threats at the root, he had no intention of letting them slip away.

Having asserted his dominance over the entire Immortal Ancient Continent, Gu Changge found it unnecessary for the formidable individuals from the Divine Sect of the Absolute Beginning to remain at large, potentially causing trouble. Stationed at the Supreme Peak, they stayed at his beck and call.

As they returned, a booming sound reverberated through the sky, akin to a thousand armies charging with a palpable aura of death. A terrifying immortal army descended upon the Supreme Peak.

“You’ve done well,” Gu Changge remarked, a smile gracing his lips as he addressed them.

“Our swords are at the young master’s command,” declared the Immortal Armored soldiers of the Gu family, their voices resounding with determination. “When the young master assumes leadership of the Gu family, we pledge to expand our territory and serve the family for generations.”

With their departure, the lingering aura of menace left the disciples in awe. Gu Changge watched them vanish with a complex expression.

They were an invincible weapon, but Gu Changge lacked the authority to command the Immortal Armored Soldiers fully. Typically, they trained and fought in other dimensions, only responding to the family’s summons. This time, they obeyed Gu Changge’s orders to eradicate the Feathered clan’s forces, which was disrespectful to the Ancient Immortal Gu family.

Their departure signaled the completion of their task, for Gu Changge assumed authentic leadership of the family, and he needed to gain the qualifications to command this formidable army. This instance had been an exception.

Indeed, other Dao heritages and Great Sects were eyeing the Immortal Ancient Continent’s bounty. The Ancient Immortal Gu family’s campaign against the Feathered clan was widely known, leaving others with little room to intervene.

As for the Gu family, they dispatched their powerhouses to the Immortal Ancient Continent, ostensibly to protect their younger generation from harm or death. However, the immortal clans were not naive; witnessing Gu Changge’s dominance over the Feathered clan, they remained passive, avoiding confrontation and adopting a defensive stance.

Their swift retreat left the other great powers frustrated, unable to find a pretext for aggression. Even in this world, actions had to be justified with rationality. Any overt displays of dominance risked provoking counterattacks from the other Dao heritages, jeopardizing long-term stability.

Unless someone possessed overwhelming strength to contend with all the Dao heritages alone, dominating the Upper Realm entirely would be preferable.

“Did everything go smoothly for the young master?” In the quiet of the Supreme Peak, a cold voice pierced the void as Yan Ji emerged, her features picturesque yet icy.

Gu Changge nodded, a smile gracing his lips. Then, remembering another matter, he turned to Yan Ji. “It just so happens that I require your assistance for a task.”

“Please instruct me, young master,” Yan Ji responded, her eyes betraying curiosity and uncertainty. She hadn’t seen Gu Changge for a while, and his ambiguity had only deepened. Previously, she had sensed danger emanating from him, but now, it was as if she faced a calm and boundless sea.

Yan Ji couldn’t help but marvel at Gu Changge’s increasing power and terror, recognizing his rare talent in the ages. It wasn’t that she had become stronger or that Gu Changge had become weaker; instead, Gu Changge had ascended to greater heights of power.

“It’s not a significant matter. I need assistance locating a few individuals who have been missing in a dimensional world for over ten years,” Gu Changge smiled, handing Yan Ji several Boundary Breaking Talismans obtained from the system store.

“Searching for someone, Young Master?” Yan Ji queried, puzzled but refraining from delving deeper. As a follower, she understood her role didn’t entail knowing every detail of Gu Changge’s endeavors.

“Yes, I need you to locate a few people. I’ll have our people gather information and provide it to you. If you encounter danger in the dimensional world, prioritize your safety and flee. Losing you would be a great loss,” Gu Changge expressed genuine concern for Yan Ji’s well-being.

“Don’t worry, Young Master. I’ll proceed cautiously,” Yan Ji replied, touched by Gu Changge’s care.

Boundary Breaking Talismans were invaluable, capable of forcefully dismantling boundary barriers to facilitate escape. Gu Changge’s willingness to part with them underscored his concern for Yan Ji’s safety.

Confident in her prowess in the Great Sacred Realm, Yan Ji interpreted Gu Changge’s gesture as a protective measure, unaware of the danger that awaited her. She appreciated his thoughtfulness, sensing his concern for her welfare.

Little did Yan Ji know the reason for Gu Changge’s generosity with the Boundary Breaking Talismans stemmed from the dangerous nature of the mission. Despite her strength, she might encounter formidable obstacles, given the individuals Gu Changge sought—Gu Xian’er’s parents and grandfather.

In the beginning, Gu Xian’er’s grandfather became trapped in another world due to unforeseen circumstances, struggling to break free. Subsequently, Gu Xian’er’s parents sought assistance from the clan but disappeared, leaving Gu Xian’er behind. This abandonment infuriated Gu Changge, leading him to extract Gu Xian’er’s Dao bone.

However, Gu Changge viewed the situation indifferently, believing there would be no crisis. He anticipated that Gu Xian’er’s parents and grandfather would eventually reconcile, perhaps even resulting in a boon for his strength. Such occurrences were routine in his eyes.

Despite Gu Changge’s nonchalance, Gu Xian’er remained oblivious to his machinations and likely harbored deep concern for her family’s welfare. Therefore, Gu Changge planned to deceive Gu Xian’er again, exploiting her vulnerability for his gain. What was the point of favoritism if he didn’t capitalize on this opportunity?

However, Gu Changge understood the need for discretion. Revealing his involvement could alert Gu Xian’er and the clan behind him. Therefore, he entrusted the task to Yan Ji, confident in her ability to execute it covertly.

After gathering information about Gu Xian’er’s parents and grandfather, Gu Changge provided it to Yan Ji. Swiftly, Yan Ji departed to fulfill her mission, disappearing into the shadows.

Over the years, Gu Changge had utilized Yin Mei’s assistance to amass cultivation resources and train and prepare puppets clandestinely. He occasionally scouted for talented individuals to groom as his secret operatives.

Now, Gu Changge instructed Yin Mei to dispatch some of these operatives to a designated location, awaiting Yan Ji’s directives. With meticulous care, Gu Changge ensured the secrecy of his operations, unwilling to expose the full extent of his capabilities prematurely.

As for Yan Ji, the less knowledge of her existence, the better it remained. Time flew by, and many days passed in the blink of an eye. During this period, it wasn’t just Gu Changge who departed from the Immortal Ancient Continent. Even the other young supremes ceased their training and were escorted away by groups of elders.

The emergence of the Gate of Immortality had stirred the attention of numerous ancient beings, prompting many to converge there. With surging undercurrents in the Immortal Ancient Continent, continuing the experience became challenging. Thus, it was deemed preferable for everyone to return.

Amidst this period, various events unfolded within the Immortal Ancient Continent, rapidly disseminating worldwide, causing an uproar. Ye Ling, the inheritor of demonic arts, clashed with Gu Changge and vanished after sustaining severe injuries.

Long Teng, the young leader of the Ancient Immortal Dragon Clan, met his end at Gu Changge’s hands. Gu Changge’s reputation among the younger generation soared to unprecedented heights, both for his formidable strength at the taboo level and his remarkable deeds, garnering him fervent admirers.

However, many remained wary of Ye Ling, recognizing his threat, especially after evading Gu Changge. Ye Ling’s prowess far surpassed that of the average young supreme. The White Tiger clan harbored deep animosity towards Ye Ling and relentlessly pursued his whereabouts.

This saga also involved the nine-tailed celestial fox clan, with Yin Mei, as the goddess of the Heavenly Nine-Tailed Fox clan, nearly falling victim to Ye Ling’s machinations. Vowing vengeance for her long-deceased fiancé Bai Lie, Yin Mei fearlessly proclaimed her intent to slay Ye Ling. Her resolve left many cultivators and beings in awe, admiring her bravery.

It appeared that Yin Mei had been deceived by Ye Ling initially, cultivating a deep-seated hatred in her heart. Many speculated that Gu Changge intervened and rescued Yin Mei when she faced dire peril, further enhancing his charisma and reputation.

Outside the Heavenly Dao Immortal Palace, numerous young cultivators sought to pay homage to Gu Changge, with several powerful young supremes expressing their desire to follow him. Gu Changge, in turn, accepted their allegiance without hesitation. In the younger generation, having followers symbolized status and influence. To submit to someone without even engaging in combat demonstrated the deep-seated awe and admiration for Gu Changge among these young supremes.

Curiously, no one suspected Gu Changge of being the inheritor of the demonic technique. Instead, suspicion fell upon the other young supremes, who seemed to carry the shadow of the demonic art’s inheritor, fueling speculation and suspicion.

Meanwhile, following Bai Lie’s demise, the White Tiger clan took proactive steps to annul the marriage contract between Bai Lie and Yin Mei, devoting themselves further to seeking vengeance against the inheritor of the demonic arts.

However, unbeknownst to them, Ye Ling’s remains had long been reduced to ashes, buried within the Immortal Ancient Continent, eluding discovery. This air of mystery surrounding the inheritor of the demonic arts only heightened panic and trepidation among the populace.

Moreover, various feudal issues within the Immortal Ancient Continent began to surface. The Seventh Princess of the Sea King Palace, suppressed by Gu Changge and subsequently slain by a young girl named Gu Xian’er, ignited the fury of the Sea King Palace. Despite Gu Changge’s esteemed status, the Sea King Palace refrained from slighting him.

However, Gu Xian’er’s identity raised eyebrows. While she was confirmed as a member of the Gu family, her origins were shrouded in mystery, stemming from an abandoned immortal land in the outer world. This revelation encouraged factions within the Sea King Palace, who saw it as an opportunity to tarnish the reputation of the Ancient Immortal Gu Family. Since the Gu Family did not acknowledge Gu Xian’er’s identity, seeking revenge seemed only natural to them.

The underlying cause of the escalating tension stemmed from Gu Xian’er’s direct killing of their Seventh Princess. Many saw this act as a form of retributive justice, believing that killing in response to being wronged was only fair. Unless the Ancient Immortal Gu family revealed its scandal and acknowledged Gu Xian’er’s identity, she would remain unsupported and isolated.

With numerous sea race powerhouses rushing from the distant Endless Sea to seek justice for Gu Xian’er, Gu Changge, upon receiving this news, couldn’t help but smile lightly. “This situation is quite unexpected, but it’s an opportune moment for the Sea King Palace to intervene,” he remarked.

Subsequently, he approached the Great Elder atop the mountain within the Heavenly Dao Immortal Palace, anticipating Gu Xian’er’s return.

Meanwhile, amidst a vast mountain range, a terrifying divine power surged in the heart of the Immortal Ancient Continent, akin to the cataclysmic destruction of the world. The quasi-supreme ancestor of the Feathered clan, determined to escape, set course for Dragon Island, where the Immortal Ancient Dragon Race resided. However, he was intercepted by Gu Nanshan, who swiftly subdued the old ancestor of the Feathered clan.

Later, Gu Xian’er was escorted by the Great Elder and followed. Her brows raised with anticipation as she headed towards the treasure house of the Feathered clan. “The quasi-supreme family is exceedingly wealthy,” she remarked with a smile, showing no resistance to the allure of treasures.

Unbeknownst to her, Gu Changge was plotting a trap for her. Though Gu Nanshan harbored some envy towards the riches, he refrained from seizing them in front of his younger generation, upholding the dignity befitting an ancestor.

“You’re too kind, Old Ancestor,” Gu Xian’er expressed her gratitude, observing the reluctance in the ancestor’s demeanor. Gu Nanshan, amused by her innocence, couldn’t help but smile back, noting her apparent greed beneath her calm exterior. “You’re quite something, little one,” he remarked, amused by her charming demeanor.