I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 254

Chapter 254: Girl, please respect yourself, you imposter. Let’s see how you pretend at this time.

Shortly after that, Ying Yu woke up, her eyes fluttering open with a lingering confusion. The events in the pavilion were still hazy to her. It seemed she had taken the initiative to indulge in the wine, even offering plenty to Gu Changge, who hadn’t declined.

Yet, whether she had been the first to succumb to intoxication or if he had assisted her remained unclear.

It’s mortifying to be so drunk in front of others.

Thank goodness I didn’t utter any nonsensical words.

She muttered, her cheeks flushing slightly as she recollected the incident.

“Xiaoyu…”

At that moment, Ying Shuang, who had intended to visit Ying Yu, caught sight of her demeanor. He furrowed his brow.

Who was Ying Yu thinking about? Her bashful expression hinted at something that troubled Ying Shuang, prompting his thoughts to drift toward Gu Changge.

Returning to the room, Ying Shuang’s face darkened. Had Ying Yu been reminiscing about Gu Changge during his absence?

“Big brother,” Ying Yu greeted, her tone light as she addressed Ying Shuang, who had arrived bearing a bowl of sobering soup.

“I came to check on you, but it seems I may have been unnecessary.”

Ying Shuang remarked casually, though a trace of tension lingered beneath the surface.

Unaware of the undercurrents in Ying Shuang’s words, Ying Yu continued, “There’s something I must tell you. It’s highly probable that Heavenly Emperor Mountain was targeted by someone, perhaps even Young Master Gu. We were merely pawns in a larger scheme…”

This revelation marked the culmination of Ying Yu’s deductions. Why would Gu Changge harm them without cause?

In addition to Ying Yu’s suspicions, the other two descendants of the Human Ancestor Hall displayed a similar attitude, further fueling Ying Yu’s uncertainty. Could Ying Shuang be concealing something from her? Or perhaps a true inheritor of demonic arts lurked in the shadows, manipulating events to blame Ying Shuang, with Gu Changge unwittingly caught in the snare.

Yet, when Ying Yu voiced her conjecture, Ying Shuang’s complexion darkened even further, and he asserted firmly, “Impossible.”

“Why then did Gu Changge earn the title of ‘Young Master’ from your lips when you went out?”

Ying Yu’s confusion mounted, unable to comprehend Ying Shuang’s unwavering denial.

Ying Shuang’s swift dismissal left Ying Yu pondering. It seemed there were depths to Ying Shuang’s secrets that she had yet to uncover, and his hatred toward Gu Changge was palpable. Despite the revelation of a plot against them, Ying Yu couldn’t shake the suspicion that Ying Shuang harbored undisclosed motives.

She didn’t need to voice her doubts aloud; it was evident that Ying Shuang was withholding much from her, and his antipathy toward Gu Changge ran deep. Logically, with the knowledge of an orchestrated scheme against them,

Gu Changge would hold no grudge against Ying Shuang. A simple explanation from Ying Shuang could absolve Emperor Mountain of suspicion regarding the inheritance of demonic arts. Why, then, had he not taken this course of action?

The unanswered question lingered, leaving Ying Yu to contemplate the mysteries shrouding Ying Shuang’s intentions and Gu Changge’s silence.

…..

Inside the pavilion, Wang Ziji donned a light blue gown, her visage peerless and her demeanor flawless. Seated by the window, she idly propped her chin, repeatedly casting bored glances at the table before her. Meanwhile, Xiu’er dutifully poured tea by her side.

“Elder sister…”

Wang Wushuang sauntered in, sporting a sheepish grin and an air of innocence that belied his previous lack of dependability. He scratched the back of his head nervously, meeting Wang Ziji’s gaze.

“What’s the matter?”

Wang Ziji inquired with a tinge of annoyance.

“If it’s trivial, how dare you utilize the amulet I bestowed upon you? You’ll soon learn why the flowers are so red.”

She hadn’t anticipated that Wang Wushuang’s reason for employing the amulet didn’t involve imminent danger at all. Rather, he had summoned her with it. The audacity to use the amulet as a mere calling card left Wang Ziji feeling as though her gift had been squandered. She resolved not to bestow such favors upon him in the future.

Inured to his sister’s reproach, Wang Wushuang had grown accustomed to her colorful admonitions. Though he didn’t quite grasp her intentions, he understood the lesson she sought to impart.

Yet, despite his sister’s scolding, Wang Wushuang hastened to explain, “But wasn’t it you, elder sister, who said that you would come if I activated the amulet in an emergency?”

“That’s what I said. But emergencies are when your life is in peril…”

“Don’t you realize I’m occupied at the moment? Jiang Chuchu recklessly dashed off to the site of Heavenly Extinction,” Wang Zijin continued, exasperated.

Wang Zijin fell silent, contemplating Jiang Chuchu’s impulsive actions. Jiang Chuchu, with whom she shared a rare camaraderie, had always been somewhat reserved, hardly a confidante, yet surprisingly attentive.

On the day she departed from the Ancient Immortal Wang family to seek out Jiang Chuchu, she had a specific inquiry in mind. However, she had explicitly cautioned Jiang Chuchu against mentioning Gu Changge, only to witness Jiang Chuchu’s demeanor grow frostier than ever, a hundredfold colder than usual, upon the mere mention of his name.

Learning of Absolute Heavenly Extinction’s manifestation, Jiang Chuchu had hastened away, leaving Wang Zijin with no choice but to follow.

Though the two shared numerous secret techniques, they had also stumbled upon a location imbued with the aura of Absolute Heavenly Extinction. Despite Wang Zijin’s attempts to dissuade her, Jiang Chuchu persisted in her reckless pursuit, leaving Wang Zijin feeling utterly helpless.

Fearing his sister’s reproach, Wang Wushuang hurriedly interjected, “Sister, you said it yourself. If anything pertains to Young Master Changge, I must inform you immediately.

“This time, he specifically instructed me to apprise him of your whereabouts.”

“Understanding the gravity of the situation, I wasted no time notifying you…”

Gu Changge? Wang Zijin’s interest was piqued by this unexpected revelation, prompting her to cease her chastisement of Wang Wushuang.

“You’re saying he inquired about my whereabouts?”

Wang Ziji’s interest was piqued by the notion of Gu Changge seeking her out. They hadn’t crossed paths since their farewell to the Ancient Immortal Gu family that day. The fact that Gu Changge would take the initiative to contact her was unexpected.

Knowing Gu Changge’s character, Wang Ziji couldn’t help but suspect that his motive wasn’t entirely altruistic. After all, there was no such thing as a free lunch.

Could it be that he wants help with something?

Setting aside Jiang Chuchu’s affairs for the moment, Wang Ziji recognized the significance of having someone in her life, even if it was just in passing. Though she acknowledged that Gu Changge’s intentions might be self-serving, the thought of his reaching out to her brought a flicker of happiness.

All right then, inform Gu Changge I’ll be waiting for him here.

She decided, a smile gracing her lips. She knew Gu Changge to be astute; he would undoubtedly reach her once he learned of her availability.

….

“Is this the entrance to the Heavenly Extinction Battlefield?”

Gu Changge raised an eyebrow, surveying the desolate mountain range of Southern Heaven, where they had arrived.

“Yes, if you’re not attentive, it’s easy to miss. But there should be multiple entrances like this,” replied Wang Ziji, her hands clasped behind her back as she smiled.

Gu Changge had gleaned a wealth of information from Wang Ziji about the location of the Heavenly Extinction Battlefield. Upon receiving Wang Wushuang’s message, he wasted no time in meeting with Wang Ziji, who had willingly shared her knowledge, sparing him considerable effort.

Wang Ziji had been forthcoming with details, including the entrance to the battlefield, which Gu Changge had opted to inquire about directly, preceding the need for further investigation.

The Heavenly Extinction battlefield resembled a small secret realm formed when the Absolute Heavenly Extinction tore through and consumed numerous worlds. The pervasive atmosphere of Heavenly Extinction caused fractures in the barriers of many worlds, giving rise to small, world-like areas that became battlefields for Heavenly Extinction.

“Don’t you owe me a bit of gratitude?” Wang Ziji quirked a smile.

“Few are privy to the existence of the Heavenly Extinction Battlefield.”

“Thank you very much,” Gu Changge acknowledged with a slight smile, gratitude evident in his expression.

“Let’s make the most of this opportunity and explore a few more locations.”

“Brother Gu’s gratitude doesn’t strike me as sincere,” remarked Wang Ziji with a hint of disappointment.

“Just one sentence feels perfunctory. It took us quite some time to locate this place.”

She wasn’t about to let Gu Changge off with a mere thank you.

“Only a thank you? I expected more than that.”

Gu Changge’s eyes flickered, catching onto the word “us.” He suspected it might be related to another descendant of the Human Ancestor Hall, namely Jiang Chuchu. How had Jiang Chuchu managed to escape to the land of Heavenly Extinction?

Nevertheless, Gu Changge’s expression remained composed as he inquired, “How does Miss Ziji propose to thank Gu?”

Wang Ziji flashed a smile, confident that her proposition would unsettle Gu Changge.

“How about making a promise?”

Gu Changge appeared slightly taken aback, his surprise evident. Yet, he quickly composed himself and shook his head, adopting a demeanor of disapproval.

“Miss Ziji, please respect yourself. I have a fiancée, and such jests are inappropriate. Mingkong would be quite jealous.”

Wang Ziji rolled her eyes internally, observing Gu Changge’s feigned seriousness. Despite her playful demeanor, she maintained a facade of righteousness and dignity.

However, she continued with a pensive expression, adopting a different approach.

“In ancient times, men often had multiple wives and concubines. I didn’t expect Brother Gu to be so steadfast in his affections. My apologies for the abruptness. Perhaps, then, Brother Gu, you could offer me something of sentimental value?”

Gu Changge didn’t hesitate to agree.

“Is that so? Very well.”

He promptly unfastened the crystal jade pendant hanging from his waist, its middle adorned with flowing patterns, exuding an extraordinary aura. With a smile, he presented it to Wang Ziji.

“If ever you need to reach me in the future, you can use this jade pendant to contact me, Brother Gu.”

Wang Ziji accepted the gift with a beaming smile, clearly pleased.

“Of course, I will. Thank you.”

Gu Changge nodded in agreement, concealing his amusement. It was one thing for Wang Ziji to seek him out, but expecting his assistance was another matter entirely. He knew she would likely regret it.

Subsequently, the duo discovered an obscure spatial fluctuation within the desolate mountain range. The area was pervaded by an intensely cold aura, causing nearby vegetation to wither and become coated in black-brown particles. Despite the presence of the sun, the chill lingered, proving difficult to dispel.

“The aura of Heavenly Extinction, though somewhat diluted, emanates from this place,” Gu Changge remarked, observing the surroundings.

Wang Ziji nodded in agreement.

“From here, we can access the Heavenly Extinction Battlefield. However, I’m unsure about the entrance in the opposite direction.”

Gu Changge’s gaze narrowed in contemplation. Determining the precise location of Absolute Heavenly Extinction was challenging, but finding it based on the direction of the Heavenly Extinction aura proved straightforward. With that, the two retraced their steps along the same path.

On the Heavenly Extinction Battlefield, sightings of older-generation cultivators were rare, except for those righteous individuals who possessed a strong sense of justice and were willing to sacrifice themselves to prevent the outbreak of Absolute Heavenly Extinction.

Many younger cultivators ventured here with trepidation, knowing they had to face Heavenly Extinction creatures to earn a place in the True Immortal Academy. Their reluctance was palpable, but Gu Changge remained unconcerned about encountering powerful entities that could disrupt his plans.

“I’ve heard that Brother Gu has been in contact with Ying Yu of Emperor Mountain. What are your impressions of her brother?”

Wang Ziji suddenly broached the topic as they traveled.

Recalling his interactions with Ying Yu, Gu Changge responded calmly, “Miss Ying Yu is forthright and sincere. As for her brother, I haven’t had the opportunity to meet him yet.”

Wang Ziji harbored a deep-seated resentment toward the inheritor of demonic arts, stemming from the attack she had suffered while at the Ancient Immortal Gu family. In her mind, Emperor Mountain and Prince Ying were likely intertwined with the demonic arts’ legacy.

“Is Prince Ying content to remain in hiding forever? Why does he refuse to show himself if he’s not the inheritor of demonic arts?”

Wang Ziji questioned, her conviction unwavering. Even Jiang Chuchu’s silence when asked about Emperor Mountain reinforced Wang Ziji’s suspicions. If Emperor Mountain were innocent, Jiang Chuchu’s integrity would have prompted her to defend it. However, her silence implied otherwise.

“In that case, I have a plan to coax Ying Shuang out of hiding,” Wang Ziji announced, her determination evident.

Gu Changge considered her proposal carefully before responding, “Time will reveal the truth, regardless of our actions.”

Wang Ziji nodded in agreement, trusting Gu Changge’s judgment. The incident involving the inheritor of demonic arts had tarnished the Gu family’s reputation, making it logical for Gu Changge to pursue this course of action.

…..

In the following days, Ye Langtian, Ye Liuli, Chi Ling, and others were astonished and glad to learn from Gu Changge about the location of the Heavenly Extinction Battlefield.

Despite their diligent efforts to gather information from various sources, they needed help to pinpoint its whereabouts. Gu Changge’s swift revelation of the battlefield’s location within days of arriving in Southern Heaven left them both surprised and grateful.

Unbeknownst to them, the news originated from Wang Ziji and had no direct connection to Gu Changge. He felt it necessary to have acquaintances on the battlefield as part of his alibi.

Meanwhile, Ying Yu also received the news from Gu Changge, prompting a surprised reaction from her. Despite her efforts to acquire information about the battlefield, she had come up empty-handed. The coveted quota for the True Immortal Academy made information scarce, and Gu Changge’s revelation presented her with a valuable opportunity.

Moved by his gesture, Ying Yu was further impressed when Gu Changge requested that if they encountered each other on the Heavenly Extinction Battlefield, she should afford him a chance. This request seemed trivial to Ying Yu, and she admired Gu Changge’s generosity and confidence, knowing he had no rivals for the academy quota.

Ying Yu shared the news with the younger generation of Emperor Mountain, omitting Gu Changge’s involvement to avoid upsetting Ying Shuang, who had chosen to remain secluded in the mansion. His reluctance to vie for a spot in the True Immortal Academy remained unchanged.

“It seems like fate has led us here. Since we’ve found the Heavenly Extinction Battlefield, we should proceed,” Ying Shuang remarked, unaware of the news’s origin.

He deliberated briefly before deciding to depart. He understood that not going would tarnish his reputation and cast doubt on Emperor Mountain’s credibility.

Days passed swiftly and guided by Wang Ziji’s instructions; they finally arrived at the Heavenly Extinction Battlefield. The sky above was shrouded in gray, with bleak clouds drifting ominously, casting a chilling atmosphere despite the presence of sunlight. The landscape stretched endlessly, barren and devoid of life.

The so-called Heavenly Extinction creatures were once ordinary cultivators and creatures infected by the aura of Heavenly Extinction, eventually transforming into mindless beings driven solely by a primal urge to consume life. Some retained consciousness but remained disconnected from the outside world.

“It appears others have already been here,” observed Ye Langtian and his companions, noting the absence of Heavenly Extinction creatures near the entrance.

The oppressive atmosphere of the battlefield made them uneasy, and they recognized the potential danger of venturing deeper into its depths.

“Gu Changge must have entered ahead of us,” Ye Liuli speculated, scanning their surroundings. Satisfied they were alone, they moved on, heading towards the heart of the battlefield where the Heavenly Extinction creatures lurked.

Before long, they sensed fluctuations in the air once more. The members of Emperor Mountain had arrived.

Ying Shuang, Ying Yu, and the others, accompanied by several ancient freaks like Agu and the man in black, all of whom had been sealed until this day, stood together as followers.

Ying Shuang, clad in a long robe, stood with his hands behind his back, calmly surveying the surroundings.

“It seems someone has beaten us to the punch. Let’s see who dares to leap ahead of us,” he declared, seizing the opportunity to assert his authority as a prince.

As he prepared to take action, his sudden movement startled Ying Yu.

“Look, he couldn’t resist coming,” she remarked, noting the significance of the current Heavenly Extinction battlefield as the prime breeding ground for the inheritor of demonic arts.

“It’s only natural for him to show up.”

Meanwhile, Gu Changge, observing from another direction, couldn’t help but smile at the unfolding events. Wang Ziji nodded in agreement.

“But it seems he’s aware of both of us,” she observed, impressed by Ying Shuang’s formidable spiritual awareness that enabled him to sense their presence from a distance.

“Indeed, he’s quite perceptive,” Gu Changge acknowledged with a slight smile. “I’ll leave the next steps to you, Miss Ziji.”

With that, Gu Changge vanished into the void before her. Though Wang Ziji inwardly rolled her eyes at his decision to observe merely, she remained undeterred. Now was the time to exact revenge on Ying Shuang, even if there was no concrete evidence linking him to the inheritor of demonic arts.

Buzz!!

In an instant, Wang Zijin’s figure vanished like a wisp of blue smoke. Terrifying fluctuations erupted near Ying Shuang, and the others stood, accompanied by dazzling runes.

Ying Shuang, caught off guard, was the first to feel the impact. His expression shifted suddenly.

“Who are you—” he began, but before he could finish his question, Wang Ziji’s fist connected with his body with tremendous force. He let out a pained groan as he was propelled backward, blood spurting from his mouth, bones shattering upon impact.

“Little Lord…”

“Elder brother…”

The group from Heavenly Emperor Mountain reacted with shock and horror at the sudden assault.

“An imposter. Let’s see how you maintain your charade now.”

Gu Changge remarked from his hidden position in the void. His voice tinged with interest as he observed the unfolding events.