I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 205

Chapter 205: Really unlucky guy, everything is ready

Yin Mei’s expression seemed a bit peculiar as she glanced back. She was certain that Gu Changge’s gaze was fixed on the young servant lingering at the rear. Typically, on such occasions, her retinue would wait outside the palace, as they weren’t deemed suitable for such gatherings. However, the congratulatory gift Yin Mei brought was notably lavish. In an effort to display her sincerity, she had her retinue bring it into the hall alongside her.

The young servant, usually sharp-witted, had volunteered to accompany them, expressing a desire to explore the world. Thinking nothing of it, Yin Mei agreed, convinced that Gu Changge wouldn’t mind. Yet now, she found herself puzzled… Why was Gu Changge staring at the boy like that? Could there be something amiss with this young servant?

Yin Mei believed she knew Gu Changge well enough to ascertain that he wouldn’t easily take interest in anything. “What’s the matter?” she softly inquired, addressing Gu Changge.

“It’s nothing. It’s just unusual to see a boy accompanying you on such an occasion. It appears he doesn’t share your sentiments,” Gu Changge responded casually.

“Nevertheless, I’m deeply touched by your journey here, despite the distance,” Gu Changge continued, his expression quickly returning to normal. His gaze shifted away from the pristine young servant as he smiled and greeted Yin Mei.

There was a hint of curiosity and mockery in Gu Changge’s eyes as he observed the interaction between Yin Mei and the young servant. To the onlookers, Gu Changge’s earlier strange expression seemed justified, considering Yin Mei had brought a retinue of servants into the hall—an action deemed somewhat inappropriate.

Yin Mei understood that Gu Changge was playfully teasing her, aware that their true relationship couldn’t be revealed to the world. With a slight glance, Yin Mei responded, “You jest, he’s merely a stable boy entrusted with caring for my horses. If I had known he would catch your eye, I would have kept him away from the grandeur of this event.”

This explanation clarifies matters from another perspective. Witnessing this exchange, many were taken aback.

The esteemed individuals conversing on the other side diverted their attention elsewhere, dismissing the current exchange between the younger generation as insignificant. To them, any competition among the youth was merely a minor skirmish, hardly worth their concern. What truly piqued their interest was Gu Changge’s earlier demeanor, which had caught them by surprise.

Upon hearing Yin Mei’s response, Gu Changge responded with a disapproving smile. “What is the junior saying? This senior was merely curious,” he remarked.

Yin Mei smiled in return, her words sounding ordinary but laced with hidden resentment. “It’s uncommon for my seniors to show such concern for me. It truly warms my heart,” she said, masking her true feelings.

This subtle undercurrent of bitterness was reserved for public display only. In private, Yin Mei wouldn’t dare to speak so casually or voice her grievances. Yue Mingkong noticed the undertone and her demeanor turned cold, subtly asserting her allegiance by leaning closer to Gu Changge.

Gu Changge detected the resentment but chose not to dwell on it. He appreciated Yin Mei’s ability to navigate delicate situations, understanding his intentions without overstepping her bounds. He was content with her handling of affairs.

With a smile, Gu Changge glanced at the servant once more and offered praise. “He seems to be quite industrious,” he remarked.

The mention of praise from Gu Changge sparked envy among the young geniuses present. They understood the significance of such commendation from him—it held a special weight beyond mere optimism.

“Senior Gu is praising you. Why don’t you thank him?” someone urged the young servant, who appeared fair and innocent.

At that moment, Yin Mei observed the little servant, whose demeanor had been slightly off since earlier, and furrowed her brows with dissatisfaction. Normally, he was sharp-witted and agile, so why was he suddenly so sluggish? As she recalled Gu Changge’s recent actions, Yin Mei’s frown deepened, and her gaze shifted instantly. She wasn’t foolish; she too noticed the servant’s abnormal behavior. However, with numerous powerful cultivators present in the hall, she chose not to voice her concerns extensively.

“Young Master Changge, your praise is too generous, it truly unnerves this humble servant,” the little servant named Chu Fan hastily responded, his legs trembling as he knelt on the ground. Cold sweat broke out on his back, drenching his clothes. Despite his outward display of fear, inside, he felt a surge of resistance and defiance. After all, he was the son of the heavenly emperor, accustomed to a position of authority, with power that commanded the respect of countless beings.

Even in his current predicament, he didn’t regard Yin Mei with much seriousness, believing that with the right opportunity, he could reclaim his former status and power. That’s why he had convinced Yin Mei to bring him into the main hall, under the guise of seeking worldly experience, with the intention of finding an ancient powerhouse whom he could trust.

Yet, as he entered the hall, he had yet to encounter any such formidable figures. In the next moment, Gu Changge took notice of him. A chill ran down Chu Fan’s spine, his soul quivered, and he felt as though he was being scrutinized inside and out. Though he hadn’t encountered Gu Changge in person, he had heard rumors about him and knew of his formidable reputation.

Understanding the implications, Chu Fan realized that Gu Changge was not to be underestimated. He sensed that this might be one of his most formidable adversaries in life, someone to be both amazed and feared for their many talents and capabilities.

Today, he had ventured to the Ancient Immortal Gu family’s estate, an encounter he had anticipated. However, upon laying eyes on Gu Changge, he couldn’t shake the overwhelming pressure reminiscent of facing his own father. It felt eerily familiar—a sensation akin to confronting a young supreme deity. And this was merely under Gu Changge’s gaze.

Despite its seemingly casual and unassuming nature, Gu Changge’s gaze exuded a chilling aura of dominance and indifference. This person was terrifying, even more so than the rumors had suggested! In that moment, Chu Fan found himself filled with ten thousand apprehensions and fears.

Fortunately, he maintained control over his expression, conveying sincerity and fear with natural authenticity. Though his demeanor was on full display for all to see, not a single flaw could be discerned.

In the eyes of many young prodigies present, being praised by Gu Changge face-to-face would undoubtedly lead to a worse performance. Yet, the fair and clean servant had already demonstrated remarkable composure.

“It was a false alarm! I didn’t expect this…” murmured some of the powerful individuals from the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox Clan, their expressions reflecting a range of emotions. Initially attributing the tension to Yin Mei’s earlier actions, they now realized they had likely overreacted. Gu Changge’s nonchalant demeanor reassured them, dispelling any lingering doubts.

Truth be told, Gu Changge’s current power instilled palpable trepidation in their hearts, leaving them with no choice but to tread carefully. Yin Mei, having been rescued by Gu Changge and holding the status of his junior sister, naturally gravitated towards him.

This presented a golden opportunity for the entire Nine-tailed Tianhu Clan, and everyone eagerly anticipated such a scenario! Despite Yue Mingkong being Gu Changge’s fiancée, with the mighty Immortal Dynasty backing her, such concerns were brushed aside.

After all, opportunities often come hand in hand with risks. Being targeted by Yue Mingkong wasn’t seen as a major catastrophe. Compared to clinging tightly to Gu Changge’s influence, it paled in significance. In a world where men commonly had multiple wives and concubines,

Yin Mei’s past engagement to the young master of the White Tiger Clan wasn’t held against her, especially considering the White Tiger Clan had voluntarily called off the engagement. Gu Changge’s strength and influence destined him to effortlessly attain what others could only dream of in a lifetime. This fact had remained unchanged throughout history.

“This little servant truly lacks discernment. Yin Mei should reconsider her lenient nature,” remarked some experts from the Nine-tailed Heavenly Fox Clan and older cultivators. They gazed at Yin Mei, their minds racing with strategizing thoughts. As for the seemingly innocent servant, they had already resolved to dispose of him after departing from the Ancient Immortal Gu Family.

The possibility of him causing Gu Changge to show undue concern for Yin Mei, potentially impacting the entire Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox Clan, was too risky to overlook. Despite the slim chance of such an outcome, they were determined to nip it in the bud.

“Get up. I don’t appreciate people speaking to me while kneeling. It creates the appearance of me bullying you,” Gu Changge intervened, disregarding the thoughts circulating in the hall. His demeanor remained composed and refined, lacking any discernible flaw.

Meanwhile, on the other side, Xiu’er asked curiously, “Miss, is there something special about this servant?” He couldn’t comprehend why a mere servant would garner such praise from Gu Changge.

Wang Ziji echoed the sentiment, expressing his confusion over the servant’s unexpected recognition.

An ordinary servant who had suddenly become extraordinary, why Gu Changge had spoken those words remained a mystery to Yin Mei. She couldn’t discern any significance in them.

“I don’t know, it should be fine,” Wang Ziji replied, shaking her head. As someone who had transmigrated, she lacked omniscience and omnipotence. She could only make vague guesses based on her knowledge from her previous life.

“But…”

“This goddess from the Nine-tailed Heavenly Fox family seems to have taken an interest in Gu Changge,” she observed, her expression tinged with curiosity. Though not entirely unexpected, it still struck her as peculiar. After all, Changge had rescued Yin Mei from the inheritor of demonic arts. Such narratives had been popular since ancient times. Though the trope of the hero saving the damsel may have been antiquated, its effectiveness remained unparalleled. And it seemed there were quite a few cultivators who shared her sentiments.

“Thank you, Young Master Changge,” Chu Fan uttered, his voice trembling slightly as he stood up. He exerted himself to conceal any hint of weakness, feeling as though he had no secrets left in front of Gu Changge. “How can there be such a terrifying young man in this world…” Chu Fan pondered, realizing that even if he were to reclaim his former identity, he wouldn’t dare provoke Gu Changge easily.

Soon, the incident passed. Many young geniuses, unfazed by the preceding exchange, eagerly sought Gu Changge’s advice on matters of cultivation. Gu Changge graciously obliged, explaining their queries with the demeanor of a righteous young leader.

Yin Mei took her seat beside Gu Changge, unperturbed by the palpable tension radiating from Yue Mingkong. Gu Changge, for his part, paid little heed to the open and covert rivalry between the two women. They both understood the delicate balance, knowing that nothing they could do would anger him.

Yue Mingkong exuded arrogance, her eyes intolerant of any perceived threat, especially when it came to other women vying for Gu Changge’s attention. While she recognized Yin Mei, she knew she couldn’t outmaneuver her in capturing Gu Changge’s heart.

Yin Mei, on the other hand, understood her own value to Gu Changge. If Yue Mingkong dared to attack her, Gu Changge would surely intervene, potentially causing him displeasure. Yue Mingkong, not one to act foolishly, refrained from any direct confrontation with Yin Mei, knowing it would work in Yin Mei’s favor. If Yue Mingkong ever incurred Gu Changge’s ire, Yin Mei’s prospects would only improve. It was a subtle battle, devoid of physical conflict, yet observed keenly by many young geniuses who envied and coveted their positions.

Both Yue Mingkong and Yin Mei were revered as goddesses in the upper echelons, with countless admirers. Yue Mingkong, in particular, was hailed as the epitome of beauty in the Peerless Immortal Dynasty.

“Looks like this guy has some bad luck,” remarked Gu Changge, raising his glass, crafted from white jade, to his lips. With a hint of mischief in his gaze, he glanced at the white servant standing demurely in the corner. Gu Changge had discerned the underlying dynamics of the situation.

The moment the white servant had entered the hall, Gu Changge had sensed the low level of luck emanating from him. To serve as Yin Mei’s horse-feeder wasn’t an easy task, considering the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox family’s lineage traced back to the ancient royal bloodline. However, this servant’s luck was markedly lower compared to others nearby, almost single-digit in value.

Just how unlucky was this individual? Gu Changge considered only one possibility—that the servant had incurred the displeasure of a certain deity of luck in the shadows.

As per the system’s prompts, the mortal had overtaken the powerhouse in what could be described as a seamless exchange of souls, with even the strongest individuals finding it difficult to detect any abnormalities. However, in such exchanges, there always remained the soul of the individual who had been replaced.

Gu Changge was familiar with various narratives, but he hadn’t encountered a story where a rookie’s soul suddenly replaced that of a powerful individual, allowing the former to assume the body and identity of the latter. In such scenarios, the most glaring loophole was the absence of the predecessor’s memories post-exchange. Gu Changge viewed this as the price paid for taking over another’s body.

In the past, Gu Changge hadn’t concerned himself with the fate of the ousted individual’s soul—whether it silently vanished or was consumed. But now, he theorized that the displaced soul likely inhabited the body of the original owner.

“So, this little servant’s body actually conceals the soul of the replaced person? Intriguing,” Gu Changge mused. “And this little servant has taken his place…”

With a quick deduction, Gu Changge pieced together the situation. The newly emerged “Son of Luck” was evidently this little servant—or rather, the adversary of this little servant. Perhaps even he himself remained ignorant of why he had suddenly been stripped of his status and relegated to a mere horse-feeder.

Despite the circumstances, Gu Changge harbored no sympathy. On the contrary, he aimed to extract the information he sought from this little servant.

As the birthday banquet drew to a close, guests from various factions opted to linger at the Ancient Immortal Gu family’s residence for a few days. The journey was arduous, and visiting the Ancient Immortal Gu family’s abode was a rare opportunity to scrutinize its background.

Gu Changge departed from the hall, discreetly instructing Yin Mei to monitor the movements of the servant named Chu Fan.

“Yes, master,” Yin Mei acknowledged without seeking further explanation.

Yin Mei noticed that something was amiss with Chu Fan. Even though he attempted to conceal whatever was troubling him, there were still discernible flaws, particularly under Yin Mei’s deliberate scrutiny.

Chu Fan trailed behind the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox Clan to the lodging arranged by the Ancient Immortal Gu family. Unaware of Yin Mei quietly observing him, he felt a sense of relief upon leaving Gu Changge’s presence, almost as if he had escaped a looming threat. The psychological turmoil he experienced in Gu Changge’s presence was intense—Gu Changge’s youthful demeanor was deceptively monstrous, evoking palpable trepidation in Chu Fan. He couldn’t shake the feeling that Gu Changge had somehow noticed him… though he desperately hoped it was merely his imagination.

Now, Chu Fan yearned for time to pass swiftly. Once away from the Ancient Immortal Gu family’s residence, he planned to find a way to shed his role as Yin Mei’s horse-feeder and forge a new path. Earlier that day, he had encountered numerous powerhouses from ancient times, individuals who would have revered him in his former capacity. Yet now, Chu Fan lacked the qualifications to interact with them, let alone explain his peculiar circumstances. Even if he tried, who would believe such a fantastical tale? The idea of a respectable person having their identity stripped seemed ludicrous to him.

“I wish my sister, Ying Yu, were here. She would surely recognize me,” Chu Fan muttered to himself, fueled by the conviction that the individual who had usurped his identity possessed no knowledge of their shared past. There were countless memories and secrets known only to him and his sister—information that the impostor couldn’t possibly possess. This presented Chu Fan with the prime opportunity to validate his true identity.

Meanwhile, back at the palace, Gu Changge began refining the disguised puppet of the inheritor of demonic arts. He retrieved these puppets from the mansion left behind by the Ancient Heavenly Lord of Reincarnation.

Though outwardly similar to ordinary human cultivators, the puppets were intricately crafted, with minute black and white lines weaving through their interiors. These puppets had been refined to the point where they were indistinguishable from real beings, a testament to Gu Changge’s mastery over the esoteric rules of reincarnation.

Gu Changge’s focus, however, was fixed on the puppet’s control core. It emitted a shimmering glow, with chains of laws and orders cascading down like a waterfall, presenting a mesmerizing sight.

Gu Changge closed his eyes, allowing his mind to conjure an indescribably strange deity—a being shrouded in thick, gray mist, its appearance elusive and mysterious. This visualization technique was a hallmark of his demonic art, wherein the gods visualized were born from Gu Changge’s boundless imagination.

As a transmigrator, Gu Changge understood that the realm of imagination was limitless, representing the vast unknown. “Indescribable in the fantasy world means indescribable…” he murmured, his expression tinged with a faint mix of black and white hues.

In that moment, the myriad demonic forms faintly materialized behind him, their presence elevating his aura to the sacred realm level. The void began to fissure, cracks spider-webbing across the fabric of space. With a raised palm, Gu Changge shattered stars, reaching out to grasp the sun and moon.

With a swift motion, the black and white hues coalesced into a resplendent, clanging peerless sword, thrusting toward the core of the puppet. With a sharp “puff,” the body of the Great Sacred Realm puppet cracked open, its formations stirring to life and siphoning spiritual energy from the surrounding heavens and earth.

The palace surged like a tide, yet remained concealed by a veil of silence and numerous heaven-defying formations—Gu Changge’s habitual practice grounds ensured that no spiritual energy leaked out.

Buzzing echoed in the void as terrifying auras intertwined, and rune-like symbols resembling treasure bottles swiftly descended into the cracks on the puppet. Many black runes fused with it, transforming its original pure aura into a rich, dark hue infused with a heart-shattering magic.

“Now is a perfect opportunity, just in time for everyone’s gathering,” Gu Changge mused, his eyes narrowing. “Everything is prepared except for the east wind.”

He nodded in satisfaction, casting his gaze over the puppet before him. The Great Sacred Realm puppet had been imbued with the aura of his Immortal Devouring Demonic Art. Any cultivator who encountered it would sense its origin, unmistakably linking it to the inheritor of demonic arts. Gu Changge didn’t intend to deceive anyone with this puppet; rather, he aimed to divert the world’s attention toward his objectives through strategic cooperation.

Following the same process, Gu Changge infused another puppet with the essence of demonic art, keeping it for emergencies.

“Just from whom?” Gu Changge pondered, mentally sifting through various candidates. The inheritor of demonic art he envisioned this time wasn’t limited to a single individual. Like Ye Ling before, each figure was merely a pawn, disposable at his discretion.

Ultimately, Gu Changge settled on Wang Ziji, a fellow transmigrator whose mysterious demeanor and formidable strength made her an ideal target. Her presence would provide a suitable foil for the inheritor of demonic art in the Great Sacred Realm, allowing Gu Changge to “rescue” her.

“Wang Ziji’s hidden identity as the descendant of the Human Ancestor Hall makes her a plausible target for the inheritor of demonic art,” Gu Changge reasoned. “And her exposure as such won’t matter much.”

With his plan meticulously laid out, Gu Changge’s only remaining task was to evade detection by prying eyes and ears. He was confident in the foolproof nature of his strategy.