I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 213

Chapter 213: The leek actually came to the door, the real inheritor of demonic art

The grand mountain gate rose high into the sky, reminiscent of the gates of ancient heaven. Towering above, it seemed to touch the heavens themselves. Thousands of weathered peaks surrounded the gate, with clouds swirling and streams glistening below, creating a majestic scene akin to paradise. Rainbows stretched across the sky, weaving through the clouds and casting myriad rays of light, evoking a sense of profound history and heritage.

Into this magnificent setting stepped Jiang Chuchu, her face veiled lightly, shrouded in a mist that obscured her features. Neither her appearance nor her voice betrayed her gender, cloaking her identity in mystery. Though she stood alone, devoid of followers, a natural aura emanated from her, undeniable and formidable.

The guards of the Gu family, patrolling before the mountain gate, were taken aback by her presence. “Is she the heir from the Human Ancestor Hall?” they murmured, puzzled. Hadn’t the descendant of the Human Ancestor Hall been the enigmatic woman from the Ancient Immortal Wang Family? Why had someone new appeared? Were they an imposter?

Their thoughts raced back to the recent turmoil, recalling the assassination attempt on the Human Ancestor Hall’s inheritor during the mistress’s birthday banquet. The incident had caused quite a commotion, stirring up widespread speculation.

“Who dares to impersonate the descendant of the Human Ancestor Hall?” one guard challenged, his gaze piercing like a sword, as if attempting to penetrate Jiang Chuchu’s veil and uncover the truth. The weight of his scrutiny bore down heavily, enough to unnerve even the stoutest of souls.

Yet Jiang Chuchu remained unruffled, her demeanor calm and unperturbed, as though nothing in the world could sway her attention.

Hum!

She simply raised her hand, and amidst her five slender fingers, an exquisite token materialized: the Human Ancestor Hall emblem. The three characters shimmered in the void, unmistakably declaring her identity.

“Human Ancestor Order!” The immortal guards before the mountain gate reacted swiftly at the sight of the rune, their expressions shifting as they recognized the token. In the upper realms of today, there was scarcely anyone unfamiliar with this emblem. It symbolized the authority of the ancestral hall and could even command various Taoist forces.

Their expressions turned suspicious and shocked, yet they wouldn’t allow entry based solely on this token. The Ancient Immortal Gu family adhered strictly to its rules. Being a descendant of the Human Ancestor Hall didn’t automatically grant privileges here.

“In the Human Ancestor Hall, there’s more than one descendant,” Jiang Chuchu stated evenly, seemingly understanding their puzzlement. “I request that you inform Young Master Changge that a descendant of the Human Ancestor Hall seeks an audience.”

Despite her lofty status, Jiang Chuchu didn’t dare to overstep propriety before the Ancient Immortal Gu family’s mountain gate. Everything had to proceed according to protocol.

“Understood, please wait,” the immortal guards replied in unison, exchanging glances before transforming into streaks of divine light and departing. It would take considerable time to traverse from the mountain gate to the central island, passing through numerous teleportation formations.

“Gu Changge…” Jiang Chuchu whispered softly as she watched the group of guards depart, her crystalline eyes flashing with bright runes.

During her absence from Heavenly Dao Ancient City, Jiang Chuchu had journeyed directly to the Ancient Ye Clan, intent on learning more about Ye Ling. Utilizing her unique secret technique, she could pinpoint Ye Ling’s exact location based on the shared bloodline of his kin.

With determination in her heart, Jiang Chuchu hastened to the Ancient Ye Clan. Given her stature, the clan dared not to neglect her, and they cooperated with her efforts to the fullest extent.

The Ancient Ye Clan also wanted to distance themselves from those practicing demonic arts. However, after Jiang Chuchu performed the secret technique, the entire clan was shocked to discover an unexpected truth: Ye Ling’s life force had already dissipated. This revelation sent shockwaves through the entire Ancient Ye Clan. Essentially, the individual causing a stir as the inheritor of demonic arts wasn’t Ye Ling, as many had assumed.

Although Jiang Chuchu was somewhat surprised by this revelation, she had already suspected as much. From the outset, she felt something was amiss with Ye Ling—his actions were too passive, as if someone were manipulating him from behind the scenes. In Jiang Chuchu’s estimation, Ye Ling’s demise was inevitable; it was only a matter of time.

Furthermore, she harbored suspicions about Gu Changge, though it was solely based on intuition without concrete evidence. To confirm her hunch, Jiang Chuchu traveled to the Ancient Immortal Gu family. Along the way, she heard about Wang Ziji’s assassination and the revelation of a vast organization behind the practitioners of demonic arts, with even Heavenly Emperor Mountain implicated. Coincidentally, the Emperor of Heavenly Emperor Mountain had emerged during this period.

These events left Jiang Chuchu feeling perplexed, sensing there were many unanswered questions. However, lacking direct involvement and detailed knowledge, she could only ponder from the sidelines.

“As long as I come to the Ancient Immortal Gu family, I’ll be able to uncover what transpired and identify the true culprit,” Jiang Chuchu pondered, awaiting the report while standing quietly beneath the mountain gate. Many passing members of the Gu family cast curious glances her way, but none approached to inquire.

“I wonder what Gu Changge’s stance will be. The rumors are quite unbelievable, and I need to see for myself,” she mused. “I just hope my suspicions are unfounded…”

Jiang Chuchu couldn’t shake the feeling that if Gu Changge harbored any guilt, he wouldn’t permit her entry at this juncture.

Unlike Wang Ziji, who had kept himself distanced from the outside world, Jiang Chuchu’s bold arrival signaled her confidence. “The young master has arranged a banquet, awaiting the arrival of the Human Ancestor Hall descendant,” a message relayed by several immortal guards interrupted Jiang Chuchu’s thoughts.

“Such composure?” Jiang Chuchu was surprised. It seemed Gu Changge didn’t regard her arrival as significant, indicating a lack of concern on his part. “This is becoming troublesome,” she muttered to herself.

Following a group of attendants and immortal guards, Jiang Chuchu traversed the outer and inner islands via numerous teleportation formations until she reached the mountain peak where Gu Changge resided. The revelations from the Ancient Immortal Gu family had kept her emotions steady all day, but now, standing before the cloudy, fairy-like palace atop the peak, ripples of anxiety disrupted her calm.

She realized the magnitude of the potential disaster if Gu Changge were indeed implicated. He had already attained considerable power, and if there was any truth to the suspicions, it could spell catastrophe for the entire Upper Realm. Jiang Chuchu understood the urgency to intervene.

“The young master awaits the summoner in the hall, so we’ll depart,” the attendants and guards announced before leaving hastily. Jiang Chuchu’s unease intensified, her brow furrowing as a sense of foreboding enveloped her.

“If Gu Changge truly harbors ill intentions, he wouldn’t dare to harm me recklessly. If anything were to happen to me within the Ancient Immortal Gu family, the Human Ancestor Hall would know… the world would be on alert… Gu Changge isn’t foolish enough for that,” she reasoned, yet the gnawing feeling of unease persisted, deepening her frown.

The seven-bodied immortal soul was already an exceptionally rare talent, occurring perhaps once in a millennium. However, Jiang Chuchu possessed a nine-bodied immortal soul, an unparalleled gift that astonished all who knew of it. Her perception abilities were so potent that they bordered on the prophetic.

Due to her extraordinary talent, Jiang Chuchu had always placed great trust in her intuition. Upon reaching the mountain peak, she entered a lofty and majestic hall. Inside, her gaze immediately fell upon a young man, Gu Changge, seated atop a dais. The hall was adorned with starlight droplets, wisps of multicolored light, and an ethereal atmosphere reminiscent of the depths of the universe.

Gu Changge exuded an air of ease and dignity, clad in a flowing robe with his hair cascading behind him. The banquet below was lavish, featuring spiritual fruits, immortal wine, and an assortment of delicacies, including meat from formidable beasts. Beautiful and talented women danced gracefully to the accompaniment of zithers and thuribles, adding to the atmosphere of tranquility and grandeur.

Upon Jiang Chuchu’s arrival, Gu Changge greeted her naturally, gesturing for her to take a seat. His warm and flawless smile belied any hint of surprise. In truth, Gu Changge had anticipated her visit upon receiving word from the immortal guard. Having gleaned information about Jiang Chuchu from Wang Ziji, he knew of her remarkable talents and reputation as the reincarnation of an Ancient Immortal.

Observing Jiang Chuchu’s immense accumulation of luck points, Gu Changge couldn’t help but feel a twinge of excitement. “This living leek,” he thought to himself, acknowledging her formidable presence.

How dare she take the initiative and dare to come knocking at his door! Though not inherently blessed by luck, being the heir of the Human Ancestor Hall also meant possessing considerable fortune—individuals with such luck were exceedingly rare in the world.

“It seems that those entangled with the human ancestors are not to be underestimated,” Gu Changge mused inwardly, his expression giving away nothing. In truth, he had already surmised Jiang Chuchu’s purpose for seeking him out, finding her audacity both impressive and questionable. Was she remarkably astute and confident, or simply foolish?

“Chuchu greets Young Master Changge,” Jiang Chuchu said, dispelling the veil of mystery with her calm and melodious voice. She had decided to confront the truth openly, though she knew this tactic might not yield much against Gu Changge. Observing him in person only reinforced her skepticism towards the rumors. Indeed, Gu Changge’s true strength couldn’t be accurately assessed based on hearsay, further solidifying Jiang Chuchu’s suspicions.

However, she remained composed, trusting that Gu Changge wouldn’t dare harm her within the Ancient Immortal Gu Family’s grounds. “Chuchu? What a lovely name, truly fitting,” Gu Changge remarked, his admiration evident.

Despite half of Jiang Chuchu’s face being veiled, her eyes radiated a chilling intensity, reminiscent of a solitary cultivator observing the world. Her demeanor exuded a sense of importance—she was undeniably associated with the Human Ancestor Hall, perhaps akin to the leading lady in a tale of epic proportions. Such audacity was beyond what one would expect from an ordinary woman.

“Young Master Changge, your praise is overly generous,” Jiang Chuchu responded evenly, taking her seat with a composed demeanor, her gaze lowered slightly.

In her eyes, faint runes began to manifest—a manifestation of her divine tracing ability, a talent unparalleled in the world. With this gift, Jiang Chuchu could unravel the intricate web of causality woven between heaven and earth. She seized this opportunity to ascertain whether Gu Changge was concealing any secrets. Confident in her abilities, she doubted Gu Changge could detect her subtle movements, especially since she appeared focused on the spread of spiritual wine and fruits on the table, avoiding direct eye contact.

“What brings Holy Maiden Chuchu to the Gu family?” Gu Changge inquired casually, seemingly oblivious to Jiang Chuchu’s scrutiny as he raised his cup to his lips with a natural smile.

Although Gu Changge outwardly appeared unperturbed, Jiang Chuchu continued her discreet observation, tracing his aura with her unique talent. However, her attention was momentarily diverted when Gu Changge mentioned his confrontation with the Inheritor of the Demonic Art.

“I heard about your battle with the Inheritor of the Demonic Art, and I’ve been curious about the details,” Jiang Chuchu replied calmly, choosing her words carefully.

Gu Changge seemed surprised by her interest, but before Jiang Chuchu could respond, he continued, expressing regret over Ye Ling’s demise. “However, I’m afraid you’re too late, Holy Maiden Chuchu. Ye Ling is already dead. Were you unaware?”

Jiang Chuchu’s gaze sharpened as she locked eyes with Gu Changge, a chill creeping up her spine. The tone of Gu Changge’s words struck a chord of alarm within her.

Gu Changge’s directness caught Jiang Chuchu off guard. Was he implying that he was responsible for Ye Ling’s death? The thought sent a chill down her spine, but she maintained a calm exterior as she sought clarification.

“What do you mean by this, Young Master Changge? How did Ye Ling die? I fail to comprehend,” Jiang Chuchu questioned, her expression neutral despite the turmoil within.

Gu Changge’s response did little to assuage her suspicions. “It doesn’t matter if you don’t understand,” he replied cryptically. “Holy Maiden Chuchu will understand in due time.”

Offering a gesture of hospitality, Gu Changge poured wine and downed it in one swift motion, inviting Jiang Chuchu to join him. Her hesitation was apparent, prompting Gu Changge to taunt her, insinuating that she feared poisoning. Jiang Chuchu frowned, though inwardly she acknowledged the validity of his point. However, admitting such suspicions would be a slight to her host.

Gu Changge dismissed her concerns, revealing, “Forget it, don’t drink it. It’s understandable for Holy Maiden Chuchu to be cautious. After all, I did poison this wine.”

Jiang Chuchu’s shock was palpable. Realization dawned upon her as she grasped the implication of Gu Changge’s words. Her pupils constricted, and even her typically composed demeanor couldn’t hide her distress. Having traced Gu Changge’s aura with her unique talent, she had finally uncovered the truth.

At that moment, Gu Changge’s aura became nearly suffocating, enveloping Jiang Chuchu in a maddening, indescribable gray fog. Within it lurked a terrifying presence, ancient and majestic, seemingly capable of engulfing all existence. The chaotic and majestic nature of this aura, composed of countless origins and laws, rendered Jiang Chuchu insignificant in its presence.

“He really… devoured countless origins,” Jiang Chuchu realized, her expression paling beneath the veil. Despite the overwhelming sensation, she maintained her composure, refusing to betray any hint of unease. With Gu Changge’s true nature revealed, the confirmation of his identity as the elusive inheritor of demonic arts sent shivers down her spine.

Gu Changge observed her with interest, seemingly oblivious to Jiang Chuchu’s inner turmoil. “Is something amiss, Holy Maiden Chuchu? You appear a bit pale. I was merely jesting earlier, there’s no need to take it seriously,” he remarked casually.

Jiang Chuchu quickly regained her composure, acknowledging his words with a nod. “Thank you for your concern, Young Master Changge. However, such jokes are best avoided,” she replied, masking her apprehension.

In the confines of the Ancient Immortal Gu family, Jiang Chuchu dared not let Gu Changge detect any abnormality. She knew that her safety relied on him remaining unaware of her true identity. If he were to discover it, would he spare her? Though she was certain Gu Changge wouldn’t easily harm her, the potential consequences weighed heavily on her mind.

As thoughts raced through her mind, Jiang Chuchu entertained thoughts of retreat. Her initial instincts had proven correct, but exposing Gu Changge without evidence presented a formidable challenge. Despite her certainty about his true nature, devising a plan to reveal him remained elusive.

But how could Jiang Chuchu bring such grave accusations against Gu Changge and the Ancient Immortal Gu family without concrete evidence? It would be seen as a deliberate attempt to frame him, which could have severe repercussions. Without evidence to support her claims, it would be futile to confront Gu Changge directly.

Gu Changge’s response only added to the complexity of the situation. His smile took on an intriguing quality as he remarked, “Oh, don’t worry about it. Since Holy Maiden Chuchu has come all this way, I’ll remember this kindness and ensure your well-being. Is there any problem?”

Jiang Chuchu seized the opportunity to extricate herself from the situation. “Young Master Changge is too kind. I have urgent matters to attend to today. Since you’ve informed me of Ye Ling’s demise, I must seek out other leads,” she replied tactfully, hinting at her desire to depart.

However, Gu Changge wasn’t ready to let her leave so easily.