I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 208

Chapter 208: This fluctuation is from Heavenly Emperor Mountain, and the blame is temporarily detained

At just that moment when cultivators from various Dao lineages were engaged in discussions, a colossal golden palm print thundered past, enveloping the hall below, while a gray mist suddenly billowed forth. The concealed formation shattered instantly, unveiling the chaos within the hall. At that moment, Gu Changge also hurried to the scene, his countenance frosty and exuding a palpable aura of menace.

“How dare you launch an attack within the confines of my Ancient Immortal Gu family’s domain,” Gu Changge uttered icily, his voice laced with lethal intent. “You’re simply begging for death.”

Scanning the tumultuous scene, his gaze fell upon the two combatants, his expression a mixture of fury and determination.

“Young Master Changge! What in the world is happening here?” queried several nearby cultivators, their eyes wide with astonishment.

Amidst the commotion, someone speculated if the assailant could be a young prodigy from the Ancient Immortal Wang family.

“What?! Someone is attempting to assassinate my sister?” Wang Wushuang exclaimed as he arrived on the scene, his features contorted with shock, anger, and a myriad of other emotions. The murderous glint in his pale golden eyes was truly disconcerting.

“I’m not entirely sure myself; I’ve just arrived,” Gu Changge responded, his expression still composed despite the turmoil, though a chilling undercurrent lingered in his demeanor. He cast a fleeting glance at the sky, a subtle hint of something indiscernible flashing in his eyes, unnoticed by the others.

In that moment, nobody sensed anything amiss in Gu Changge’s demeanor. After all, such an incident occurring within the Ancient Immortal Gu family’s territory, especially during his mother’s birthday celebration, was bound to provoke intense agitation and indignation.

“This individual has shown a brazen disregard for authority; there will be no escape for him today,” Gu Changge declared, his tone reverberating with a bone-chilling intensity. Though the threat wasn’t directed at them personally, many couldn’t help but shudder in response.

Boom!

Suddenly, in the distant sky, the divine chains of laws intertwined, poised to descend. Dense and awe-inspiring, they seemed capable of engulfing all beings and reducing them to mere ashes. A colossal holy Dharma body, towering like a mountain, engaged in combat, its aura shaking the very earth. With a mere gesture, it could reduce mountains to dust, instilling tremors in countless monks.

Swiftly, beams of divine light streaked through the air. In the Inner Island area of the Gu family, numerous formidable powerhouses and young prodigies rushed to the scene, stunned by the audacity of someone daring to act within the Ancient Immortal Gu family’s domain.

“This individual is asking for their demise!” declared many within the Gu family, their expressions turning frigid as they gazed upon the figure shrouded in black light, as if already condemned.

In response, a flurry of actions ensued, with many seeking to eliminate the enigmatic figure. The fluctuating power of the Great Sacred Realm swept through the vicinity, startling numerous guests. The presence of individuals in the Great Sacred Realm, regardless of their sect, signified esteemed elders or high-ranking clan members—individuals beyond the realm of ordinary old monsters.

The sudden emergence of so many auras within the Ancient Immortal Gu family underscored its remarkable background.

“Thankfully, you arrived in time. Is Miss Ziji unharmed?” Gu Changge queried, stepping forward into the hall. His concern was evident as he observed Wang Ziji, her form drenched in blood, appearing frail and pallid.

Seizing the opportunity to recuperate, Wang Ziji sat cross-legged, her countenance serene albeit drained of color. Wisps of heavenly aura converged into a vortex, swirling around her, hastening the process of healing her injuries.

This condition was exceedingly peculiar; every cell of her body had taken on a divine-like hue, radiant and crystalline—a testament to her unique physique. Over the years, her immortal essence had become increasingly pronounced, imbuing every fiber of her being with an aura of the divine, resplendent and sacred.

Upon hearing Gu Changge’s voice as he came to her aid, Wang Ziji couldn’t help but open her eyes. Though still weakened, her complexion had notably improved. Only she knew the sheer effort it took to survive such a grueling battle; an ordinary quasi-sacred realm cultivator would have succumbed both physically and spiritually at the outset, dissipating into the ether.

“Brother Gu…” Wang Ziji greeted with a slight smile, though traces of blood marred her visage. “I’m fine, this injury is insignificant…”

However, as she spoke, a trickle of blood escaped the corner of her mouth, and she swayed, nearly collapsing. Gu Changge’s eyes flickered with concern as he swiftly moved to support her, catching her in his arms.

A subtle smile played on Wang Ziji’s lips as she gazed up at him, her expression feeble. “Thank you, Brother Gu, for your timely rescue. But if you take another step, you might not see me again,” she whispered, her voice tinged with genuine fear.

Observing Gu Changge’s apparent concern, Wang Ziji couldn’t help but discern the underlying truth—this display was merely a facade. Despite their outward similarity, his eyes lacked the warmth of genuine care.

From Wang Ziji’s perspective, Gu Changge’s swift intervention served two purposes. Firstly, such a significant incident within the Ancient Immortal Gu family demanded his immediate attention to safeguard its reputation. Secondly, were she to perish unnoticed, it would undoubtedly strain relations between the Ancient Immortal Gu family and the Ancient Immortal Wang family—a scenario Gu Changge undoubtedly sought to avoid.

As the young master, Gu Changge was undoubtedly displeased by the unfolding situation. His swift arrival not only conveyed his genuine concern but also ensured Wang Ziji’s well-being. Although Wang Ziji’s injury was relatively minor, she couldn’t resist teasing Gu Changge in this manner.

This seemingly indifferent demeanor of his wouldn’t impress her without a little effort, Wang Ziji surmised. Confident in her own allure, she believed her pitiful appearance would surely elicit a response from any man, perhaps even Gu Changge.

“Regarding today’s events, the negligence of the Gu family and myself has caused Miss Ziji undue harm. I apologize sincerely. I will personally make amends for any losses you’ve suffered,” Gu Changge expressed, his gaze lingering on Wang Ziji nestled in his arms. He seemed momentarily lost for words before composing himself and speaking with a tone tinged with remorse.

Despite noticing Wang Ziji’s swift recovery and the unusual vitality emanating from her, Gu Changge chose to ignore it. He was accustomed to such manipulation, having maintained a carefully constructed facade for others like Yue Mingkong or Gu Xian’er. Responding to Wang Ziji’s implications would only arouse suspicion and disrupt his future plans.

Thus, Gu Changge deftly redirected the conversation, avoiding any further scrutiny. This indifference on his part only served to reinforce Wang Ziji’s perception of him as lacking sincerity, despite his courteous demeanor.

“Brother Gu, do you have any idea who might be behind tonight’s assassination attempt?” Wang Ziji inquired, adopting a more serious tone as she sought answers.

Gu Changge glanced at her thoughtfully. “A person who is the inheritor of demonic arts?”

“Brother Gu is correct. Perhaps my identity has been exposed to them, prompting them to dispatch their subordinates to lurk in the shadows, intending to seize the opportunity to eliminate me. Fortunately, the Great Sacred Realm cultivator who attacked me underestimated my abilities, allowing me to delay them significantly,” Wang Ziji remarked with a slight smile. However, she hadn’t anticipated that this matter could be linked to Gu Changge himself.

Moreover, from the mouth of the Great Sacred Realm cultivator, she learned that their next target was Gu Changge. Thus, in her view, Gu Changge was also a target of the inheritors of demonic arts, just like her. She didn’t consider any other possibility.

“This explains why Miss Ziji’s cultivation is formidable, enabling her to fend off the attacker for so long,” Gu Changge noted, giving Wang Ziji a penetrating look. Though she tried to conceal her cultivation and identity from him, Gu Changge had already discerned the truth. In comparison, she found him more inscrutable and mysterious.

“The audacity of the inheritors of demonic arts, infiltrating my family in this manner, is alarming. Today’s encounter with the Great Sacred Realm cultivator indicates a significant escalation in their capabilities. It’s quite remarkable…” Gu Changge mused, appearing troubled by the situation.

Wang Ziji nodded in agreement. She had also come to the same conclusion upon hearing Gu Changge’s assessment.

“I suspect that Ye Ling, whom you fought before, may not be the true inheritor of demonic arts. He was likely just a pawn, incapable of commanding a Great Sacred Realm existence. There must be larger, more menacing figures behind him,” Wang Ziji speculated, recalling how the Great Sacred Realm entity referred to its superior as “Master.” This suggested a more complex hierarchy and organization.

“Ah, so Ye Ling was merely a pawn?” Gu Changge exclaimed, surprised by this revelation. He furrowed his brow in contemplation. “Since Ye Ling hasn’t resurfaced, it’s difficult to ascertain his fate…”

“Whether Ye Ling lives or dies is immaterial. What’s crucial now is uncovering the true identity of the inheritor of demonic arts and the organization supporting them,” Wang Ziji declared, her eyes gleaming with determination.

Despite her opposition to the inheritor of demonic arts due to her lineage, Wang Ziji’s assassination attempt by a formidable adversary sent by them left her seething with indescribable rage. The palpable murderous aura surrounding her spoke volumes about her fervent desire to hunt down the mastermind behind the scenes and exact vengeance upon them with a thousand cuts.

Their conversation was overheard by the cultivators who had gathered, causing a noticeable shift in their demeanor. Many young prodigies pieced together Wang Ziji’s true identity from the exchange, prompting a marked change in their attitudes. No longer as casual as before, they now regarded her with a mixture of awe and reverence, akin to honoring ancient ancestors—a sentiment distinct from the respect afforded to Gu Changge.

In the eyes of these young talents, Wang Ziji’s lineage as a descendant of the Human Ancestor Hall inspired admiration and reverence, signifying a new era marked by the emergence of such prestigious figures.

“It’s no surprise that Wang Ziji became a target. I had no idea she was a descendant of the Human Ancestor Hall…” Ye Langtian sighed deeply, completely taken aback by this revelation.

“With the appearance of even the descendants of the Human Ancestor Hall, it seems the golden age has truly begun,” remarked the other young elites, their gazes reflecting a mix of emotions.

“It appears that the individual behind Wang Ziji’s assassination has ties to the inheritor of demonic arts… And now, with the appearance of a Great Sacred Realm entity, the situation grows even more precarious,” mused some of the older generation cultivators and powerhouses, harboring hopes for peace in the realm of cultivation. They speculated about the potential emergence of a human ancestor in this generation, viewing such an occurrence as a beacon of hope for stability and harmony.

For the human race, the significance of a human ancestor was unparalleled. Throughout ancient times, various titles such as Xuan Human Ancestor, Jiang Human Ancestor, and others existed, each representing different branches. However, over time, these distinctions faded away, leaving behind only the universal title of “human ancestor.”

Similarly, titles like emperor of the ancient ten thousand clans, bestowed upon remarkable individuals like the Ying Emperor, Bai Emperor, and Sheng Emperor, carried immense reverence and respect. Their cultivation levels remained shrouded in mystery, transcending even the realm of true immortals. Their profound contributions to all living beings earned them adoration and worship, with their mere presence evoking reverence and awe.

Such revered figures, acknowledged and venerated across different eras, were few and far between. They held the power to bring peace and prosperity to the world, even in the face of adversity. Their legacy persisted through endless chants and rituals, ensuring their influence endured long after their passing.

In each era, only a select few individuals commanded such universal recognition and were bestowed with such revered titles—a testament to their extraordinary accomplishments and unwavering dedication to the well-being of all living beings.

Boom!

As discussions and shock reverberated among the crowd regarding the night’s events, the tumultuous battle in the sky finally reached its climax. With terrifying fluctuations sweeping across the sky and earth, it became evident that there was no suspense left in the outcome.

Despite the Ancient Immortal Gu family’s stronger members refraining from intervening, the figure engulfed in dark runes emitted a deafening shout, seemingly resigned to the inevitable. Then, in a dramatic burst of energy, akin to a small dark sun expanding rapidly, the figure chose to detonate himself, unleashing a destructive force that sent shockwaves through everyone present.

The magnitude of a Great Sacred Realm self-destruction was incomprehensible. Witnessing it firsthand, the onlookers were overcome with terror, their souls trembling and legs weak, leaving them paralyzed on the ground.

“He cannot escape,” Wang Ziji murmured calmly, amidst the chaos.

At that moment, within the inner island of the Gu family, a faint cough resonated, as if embarrassed by its belated arrival. Suddenly, a colossal palm materialized, shrouding the world in its grasp. It appeared as though one side of existence was being annihilated while another was reborn, with runes and light intertwining amidst chaotic energies, resembling a condensed galaxy.

The overwhelming momentum shook the very foundations of the world, quelling the aftermath of the explosive self-destruction. Following a brief moment of silence, a collective gasp echoed from the stunned onlookers below.

“This fluctuation… It seems to surpass even the quasi-supreme realm. Could it be an attack from a supreme being?” speculated one observer, hissing in awe at the display of power.

“The might of the Gu family is truly fearsome. In an instant, numerous Great Sacred Realm cultivators appeared, followed by a Supreme being who obliterated everything,” another remarked, awestruck by the scene unfolding before them.

The quasi-supreme realm already represented the pinnacle of existence among the various Dao lineages, and encountering a true supreme being was akin to encountering a legend come to life. Witnessing such a powerful entity in action for the first time left many in disbelief. The palm that manifested seemed to envelop the entire universe in its grasp.

“It’s unfortunate that the assailant chose to self-destruct without revealing any useful information…” Gu Changge lamented, shaking his head. “The timing of the old ancestor’s intervention was too slow, but it’s difficult to prevent a Great Sacred Realm cultivator from self-destructing.”

Wang Ziji concurred, “Even if he was subdued, we likely wouldn’t have gained any useful intelligence. Anyone bold enough to attempt my assassination must have contingency plans in place.”

Gu Changge smiled wryly, “Miss Ziji is correct; perhaps I am overthinking it.”

However, as Gu Changge observed the dispersing aftermath, a peculiar glint flashed in his eyes. This self-destruction was orchestrated by his design, yet he maintained a contingency plan. Despite the puppet’s strong regenerative abilities, as long as it wasn’t completely destroyed, there was potential for future use.

Sending someone to guard the site would allow the cultivators of the various Dao sects to perceive its aura, dispelling any lingering doubts. Additionally, he intended to retrieve the puppet’s core from the shattered runes for future repairs and reuse.

True to his expectations, numerous formidable figures ascended to the sky to investigate the identities hinted at by the residual fluctuations. Many now knew of Wang Ziji’s status as a member of the Human Ancestor Hall—an institution held in such high regard that few dared to offend it lightly.

Who would target Wang Ziji without cause? It seemed implausible. After her mishap at the Ancient Immortal Gu family, the blame naturally fell upon them. It appeared too late to protect her, making it unlikely for someone to attempt her assassination under these circumstances. Thus, many speculated about the involvement of the inheritor of demonic arts, casting a pall over the gathered crowd.

Previously, it was the younger generation who fell victim to thefts. However, with the appearance of a Great Sacred Realm cultivator, the implications were clear—this was a dire threat. Even influential figures felt a chill creeping over them, sensing the impending danger.

“Perhaps, as Young Master Changge suggested, there’s an organization behind the inheritor of demonic arts,” many conjectured silently, their admiration for Gu Changge growing. His words seemed akin to prophecy, leaving them in awe.

Gu Changge ascended to the sky alongside other powerhouses, closing his eyes as if to discern the origin of the residual battle aftermath. In reality, he sought out the puppet’s core, planning to retrieve it discreetly.

“This aura… If I’m not mistaken… It resembles the mysterious divine power of Heavenly Emperor Mountain…” an aged presence suddenly exclaimed, startling those around him. His revelation prompted others to open their eyes, reflecting shock and disbelief, momentarily silencing the crowd.

Gu Changge, having secured the puppet’s core, sighed. “The lingering aura from the battle matches that of Ye Ling, who I fought against previously. It seems they share the same origin.”

The old antiques present corroborated his observation, possessing a familiarity with the forbidden demonic arts. Their recognition of the aura lent credence to Gu Changge’s assessment.

As more cultivators arrived in the sky, the atmosphere grew heavier. Observing this, Gu Changge smiled inwardly. For now, the accusation against him had been temporarily averted.