I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 198

Chapter 198: Netting the believers of the Heavens and the Worlds, an excellent start to a tragic drama

“Reporting to the Reserve Emperor, we’ve pinpointed the spatial coordinates of the Heavenly Star Realm…”

“The Peerless Army has already amassed 500,000 candidates and is now assembling a second team.”

Meanwhile, in the Peerless Immortal Dynasty. An official female respectfully delivered the update.

In the heart of the palace, Yue Mingkong stood with her arms folded behind her back, gazing out of a distant window. Her countenance remained serene and enigmatic, draped in the imperial robe that struggled to conceal her proud stature.

Her contemplations were interrupted by these reports, momentarily breaking her focus. Her ethereal visage betrayed a hint of distraction.

She nodded thoughtfully and uttered, “Very well.”

The Heavenly Star Realm held particular significance to her, as it was a memory from her past life. The reincarnation of the Human Ancestor emerged from that realm and ultimately ascended back to the upper realm. Determining its precise location had consumed considerable time and effort.

Moreover, the formation of the Peerless Army had drained substantial resources, yet Yue Mingkong had yet to take action thus far.

Her foremost priority was resolving the looming threat to Gu Changge. She would discreetly inform him if she failed in her endeavors, allowing him to navigate the situation independently. It served no purpose to expose Gu Changge prematurely to the scrutiny of the Human Ancestor Hall.

Should his identity as the heir to the demonic arts be unveiled, he would inevitably become the target of global hostility.

“If we were to venture into the Heavenly Star Realm now, we might overlook crucial developments…”

Yue Mingkong’s expression betrayed a sense of conflict. On one hand, she feared missing the opportune moment; the current phase of the human ancestor’s reincarnation was the most vulnerable, presenting the best chance for intervention.

Yet, if they allowed the agents of the Human Ancestor Hall to locate him first, the ensuing confrontation would be exponentially more challenging.

Yue Mingkong harbored no illusions about her present capabilities. She could, at best, delay the human ancestor’s return; confronting him directly was beyond her reach.

“In that scenario, the Heavenly Star Realm lies far removed from the Inner Realm, making it improbable for the Hall of Human Ancestors to locate the reincarnated body of the Human Ancestor anytime soon…”

“Even if they endeavor to pinpoint the Human Ancestor’s whereabouts, it will require considerable effort.”

Yue Mingkong deliberated extensively but opted to bide her time before taking action. It would be Gu Changge’s mother’s birthday banquet in a few days.

Yue Mingkong held deep gratitude toward this individual who had treated her like a daughter in her previous life. Bereft of maternal affection since her own mother’s early demise, she had found solace in the care of Gu Changge’s parents.

She was unwilling to forgo attending her mother figure’s birthday celebration in this life, knowing that journeying to the Heavenly Star Realm would entail a prolonged absence.

Throughout this period, she had closely monitored events unfolding in the Ancient Immortal Continent. The trajectory remained broadly consistent with her previous life’s recollections.

The only notable deviation was Gu Changge’s revelation of his identity as the heir of the Ancient Heavenly Lord of Reincarnation. In her previous life, he had wielded influence over factions like the Ancient Snake Clan and Black Heavenly Eagle Clan through alternative means. However, with Ye Ling’s demise at Gu Changge’s hands in this iteration, his adoption of this identity seemed natural and unabashed.

Yue Mingkong found this development unsurprising, given Gu Changge’s character.

“The heir of the Human Ancestor Hall will soon emerge into the world, wielding unimaginable power. Only ancient prodigies can rival them. With my current strength, I am no match.”

“It appears I must journey to the ancestral grounds to absorb the emperor’s aura and refine the remaining immortal spirits…”

Subsequently, Yue Mingkong pondered further, issued directives for other matters, and then departed for the ancestral grounds of the Peerless Immortal Dynasty.

Each successor to the position of reserve emperor in the Peerless Immortal Dynasty was allowed to imbibe the emperor’s aura once. This ritual constituted the lineage’s method of inheritance, a timeless foundation of immortality spanning millennia.

The benefits of the emperor’s aura were beyond description, and each generation was granted only one opportunity.

Initially, Yue Mingkong had intended to reserve this opportunity for her breakthrough into the Sacred Realm. However, with the emergence of the heir of the Human Ancestor Hall, she felt the urgency to enhance her cultivation.

Moreover, she now possessed the immortal spirit bestowed upon her by Gu Changge. Yue Mingkong sensed the necessity of combining and refining these resources; otherwise, she would need help finding her place amidst the current milieu of ancient geniuses.

Following the unification of the Ancient Immortal clans, Gu Changge remained industrious, seizing opportunities along his path and acquiring many treasures.

Ancient Immortal scriptures, former sage insights, supreme stone carvings, myriad runes, formations, sacred pills, scriptures, ancient texts, and divine weapons— their quantity was immeasurable.

With this abundance of cultivation resources, Gu Changge’s heritage has reached unprecedented levels. The collective legacy of the significant clans since the Ancient Immortal era was staggering, leaving even the most formidable individuals in awe.

Leveraging the Devouring Immortal demon technique, Gu Changge’s cultivation soared, breaking through to the Sacred Realm. His ostensible Heavenly Dao Immortal Cultivation also ascended to the True God Realm, a facade sufficient to deceive most observers for the time being.

Aware of the suspicions surrounding his true strength, Gu Changge remained unfazed. His reputation had already surpassed that of any peer in the younger generation. Even if the Human Ancestor Hall heir were to emerge, Gu Changge remained confident in his standing.

During this period, Gu Changge meticulously analyzed information regarding the reincarnation of the human ancestor. Drawing from previous texts, he speculated on the feasibility of supplanting the human ancestor.

Ultimately, Gu Changge concluded that while the possibility of achieving his goal was slim, it remained within the realm of possibility.

However, the sheer vastness of the upper and lower worlds rendered searching for the reincarnated body of the human ancestor impractical and cumbersome. Gu Changge harbored an obsession with finding a solution to this dilemma.

Contemplating two potential avenues, he initially considered leveraging Yue Mingkong to provide clues. However, upon discovering her retreat to the ancestral land within the boundaries of the Peerless Immortal Dynasty, this option was rendered moot.

Left with only one viable approach, Gu Changge contemplated seeking assistance from the Human Ancestor Hall to ascertain the whereabouts of the reincarnated body. Yet, he foresaw numerous obstacles along this path, as the Human Ancestor Hall was undoubtedly fortified against intrusion. Moreover, such a maneuver risked exposing his identity as the inheritor of demonic arts, potentially endangering his loved ones and military forces.

Observing Wang Ziji’s apparent disinterest in locating the reincarnated body of the human ancestor, Gu Changge reasoned that she, as a transmigrator, would be disinclined to serve as a mere tool for others.

Hence, Gu Changge strategized to manipulate Wang Ziji into becoming his ally, recognizing that this process would not yield immediate results.

Temporarily setting aside the matter of the human ancestor’s reincarnation, he awaited Yue Mingkong’s return from the ancestral land before reassessing his approach.

Meanwhile, Gu Changge utilized Destiny Points to evolve his Inner World further. Building upon its previous iteration, he fashioned a breathtaking tableau reminiscent of the mythical immortal court: magnificent golden temples, a sea of sacred stars, and cascading starlight amidst endless chaotic energy.

This glorious spectacle surpassed all others, imbuing his domain with an unparalleled grandeur.

Not only would ordinary people be subdued by such overwhelming pressure, but even those of Sacred realm stature would be compelled to kneel and worship involuntarily. This spectacle was integral to Gu Changge’s forthcoming plans; the meticulous arrangement ensured the desired effect, instilling fear and attracting followers.

With preparations in place, Gu Changge resolved to put his plan into action, singling out Hei Ming of the Black Heavenly Eagle clan as his target. He was once deemed a worthless scion. Hei Ming ascended to prominence within the clan, boasting formidable power and status second to his sister, Hei Yanyu.

Unbeknownst to Hei Ming, his aspirations to liberate his family from Gu Changge’s influence unwittingly invited calamity upon his entire clan.

Upon Gu Changge’s arrival at the Black Heavenly Eagle clan, a wave of apprehension rippled through its members, prompting a collective display of deference as they awaited his purpose.

“Please, master, do not stand on ceremony,” Gu Changge responded to their gestures, casting an approving eye over the clan’s recent training results. Satisfied with their progress, he quietly continued clandestinely amassing a formidable force within the Ancient Immortal clan’s ranks, which he intended to wield in future celestial conflicts.

However, Gu Changge’s true motive lay elsewhere.

“Is Hei Ming present?” he inquired with a sly grin, sending a shiver down the spine of a clan elder who hastily replied, visibly unnerved by Gu Changge’s imposing presence.

“Bring him to me,” Gu Changge instructed calmly, his demeanor betraying no hint of his intentions as he turned his back to the assembled clan members and stood in the hall. His inscrutable countenance left everyone guessing, instilling a pervasive dread akin to treading on thin ice.

“What could Hei Ming have done…” The expression on Hei Yanyu’s face shifted slightly within the crowd, her complexion paling as she feared the worst, envisioning Hei Ming offending Gu Changge. Not long ago, Hei Ming confided in her that he planned to rescue the clan from Gu Changge’s grasp. The realization that Gu Changge might have taken notice of their discussions filled her with dread, anticipating punishment for her brother.

Her apprehensions were soon confirmed by the anxious and fearful countenances of their fellow Black Heavenly Eagle clan members as they escorted Hei Ming forward.

No longer the unremarkable youth of yesteryear, Hei Ming exuded a newfound confidence and resolve, yet his demeanor betrayed a mix of confusion, shock, worry, and fear.

Uncertain why Gu Changge had summoned him so abruptly, Hei Ming grappled with a surge of discomfort. As the individual responsible for his entire clan’s fate, he harbored deep-seated fear and resentment toward Gu Changge, yearning to break free from his oppressive influence.

As the other clan members retreated, leaving only Hei Ming and Gu Changge in the hall, Gu Changge casually dismissed them with a wave.

“Okay, Hei Ming, you may stay. The rest of you may leave,” Gu Changge declared nonchalantly.

With the hall now empty save for the two of them, Hei Ming mustered the courage to address Gu Changge. However, Gu Changge remained impassive, seemingly oblivious to Hei Ming’s presence as he continued to face away.

Hei Ming dared not speak, his forehead slick with sweat, his pallid complexion trembling with fear.

“I heard you wish to free your clan from the slave seal,” Gu Changge finally broke the silence, turning around to reveal a faint smile.

The revelation sent a shockwave through Hei Ming’s entire being. How could Gu Changge be privy to his innermost thoughts? Panic seized Hei Ming as he contemplated his imminent demise. Under the oppressive influence of the slave seal, resistance would prove futile; Gu Changge could effortlessly snuff out his life.

However, Gu Changge’s words caught Hei Ming off guard, offering a glimmer of hope amidst his despair.

“Don’t worry, I won’t kill you. After all, you are chosen by the Supreme Being,” Gu Changge’s tone took on a playful edge.

Hei Ming’s eyes widened incredulously, his mind reeling at the unexpected mention of the Supreme Being from Gu Changge’s lips.

The revelation struck Hei Ming like a thunderbolt, leaving him speechless and overwhelmed. Could it be that Gu Changge, too, believed in the Supreme Being?

As the realization dawned, Hei Ming’s emotions swirled in a tumultuous whirlwind of shock, disbelief, and confusion.

“You…” Hei Ming struggled to find his voice, grappling with the magnitude of his deepest secret unexpectedly laid bare by Gu Changge. At that moment, Hei Ming realized something profound.

No wonder Gu Changge always evoked a sense of familiarity in Hei Ming; they shared a common belief in the Supreme Being.

“The Supreme Being has tasked me with relaying a message to you: all sincere prayers manifest into reality,” Gu Changge declared, his smile widening as he observed Hei Ming’s shocked expression. “Whoever invokes His true name shall attain eternal life through reincarnation.”

As Hei Ming grappled with this revelation, Gu Changge’s amusement grew. Utilizing the Supreme Being’s name added an air of legitimacy to his endeavors within the inner world, facilitating its reception. Gu Changge recognized the importance of sparingly invoking the Supreme Being’s name; frequent appearances would arouse suspicion.

While the true identity of the Supreme Being remained a mystery, Gu Changge didn’t dwell on such distinctions. Whether True Immortal, Main God, Immortal King, or an enigmatic innate deity, the title mattered little in the grand scheme.

Gu Changge utilized Destiny Points as a medium to establish a channel for reception. Though the cost was negligible, the expenditure increased with the receiver’s strength and spatial distance. Gu Changge, however, had no intention of shouldering this cost alone.

Faith was a prerequisite for any creature to witness the legendary Supreme Being. Gu Changge exploited this by discerning a being’s position and harvesting luck points based on their level of faith.

Faith, in turn, was cultivated by disseminating the Immortal Binding Technique across the planes and realms, ensnaring the hearts and minds of living beings. Through this intricate web of manipulation, Gu Changge orchestrated a complex system of belief to further his ambitions.

As long as beings cultivated the Immortal Binding Technique, they became followers of the Supreme Being.

“The concept of faith is merely a construct, akin to a thread, one that I can manipulate at will,” Gu Changge mused, formulating his plan.

With Hei Ming as his first experimental subject, Gu Changge observed his immediate reaction to the task assigned.

Hei Ming’s countenance transformed from despair to joy upon hearing Gu Changge’s words. The prospect of meeting the Supreme Being once more reignited his spirits, confirming that his previous encounter hadn’t been a mere fluke.

“Now, the Supreme Being has entrusted you with a mission,” Gu Changge continued, outlining the task. “Within three months, recruit thirty devout believers for the Supreme Being. When the time comes, invoke His true name, and you shall be granted an audience.”

Gu Changge’s announcement marked the commencement of Hei Ming’s first assignment. Whether or not it could be fulfilled was inconsequential; this served merely as a preliminary test.

“I understand, master. You have my word—I will fulfill the Supreme Being’s task!” Hei Ming affirmed eagerly, brimming with enthusiasm.

With a nod of acknowledgment, Gu Changge vanished into the void, leaving Hei Ming to embark on his mission.

If the experiment proved successful, Gu Changge could proceed to the next phase of his plan.

“The impending Absolute Heavenly Extinction, coupled with the emergence of the human ancestor…” Gu Changge contemplated more profound implications. While the Absolute Heavenly Extinction instilled fear within the world, Gu Changge perceived it as an unparalleled opportunity.

After departing the Immortal Continent, Gu Changge returned to the Heavenly Dao Immortal Palace to assimilate and integrate the gains he had amassed during his recent endeavors.

His breakthrough to the Sacred Realm had been solidified by consuming several physical origins. Additionally, he acquired four more Transcendental Bones, bringing the total to thirteen, all obtained through redeeming his accumulated luck points.

Incorporating these Transcendental Bones into his body elevated Gu Changge’s mastery over the laws of heaven and earth, granting him formidable capabilities when confronted with Great Sacred Realm adversaries.

As time elapsed, Gu Xian’er persistently attempted to provoke him at the foot of the mountain, only to be met with Gu Changge’s indifferent response, much to her frustration.

Meanwhile, Gu Nanshan’s pursuit led him to the depths of the Sea King Palace, resulting in the sea sealing for 100,000 years to prevent sea creatures from venturing beyond its boundaries. The incident caused a considerable stir, with rumors circulating about a mysterious black blade severing the land and injuring a prominent figure of the Sea King Palace.

Speculation arose regarding the blade’s origin, some attributing it to an ancestral figure of the Gu family, while others suspected a clandestine powerhouse lurking in the shadows.

Upon learning of these events at the Supreme Peak, Gu Changge remained unsurprised. Meanwhile, he received a family letter from the Ancient Immortal Gu family detailing an invitation to his mother’s birthday feast and a request to bring Gu Xian’er along.

Perusing the contents, Gu Changge’s gaze narrowed. Sensing an opportunity, he contemplated contacting Peach Village, the power behind Gu Xian’er.

Simultaneously, he envisioned this event as a prelude to the tragic drama he had orchestrated for Gu Xian’er—an auspicious beginning to his carefully laid plans.