I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 281

Chapter 281: As the saying goes, the calculations are set in one loop, and Prince Ying is an impostor

“Miss Xian’er, we meet again?”

As Gu Xian’er pondered, a figure suddenly descended from the sky and stood before her.

Gu Xian’er’s expression shifted in an instant. Her previously somewhat aloof and solitary demeanor turned icy, tinged with disdain.

“Zi Yang Heavenly King, I distinctly recall instructing you not to appear before me again.”

Her voice chilled as she glared at the Zi Yang Heavenly King, who had materialized before her.

Ever since his self-staged heroic rescue at the mountain gate, Gu Xian’er harbored nothing but hatred towards him.

Yet, oblivious to her sentiments, the Zi Yang Heavenly King persistently sought her company at every opportunity.

Regardless of how many times Gu Xian’er rebuffed him, he remained undeterred, like a bull.

As a contender for discipleship and once a prominent figure in the celestial realm, the Zi Yang Heavenly King enjoyed considerable renown.

Many believed his attentions were fixated on Gu Xian’er, an Ancient Immortal Gu family scion.

“Do you not comprehend? You repulse me.”

Gu Xian’er’s words dripped with disdain.

Nonetheless, the Zi Yang Heavenly King remained unfazed, shaking his head with a smile. “A gentleman pursues a fair maiden.”

“I merely chanced upon Miss Xian’er, thus I came to pay my respects. You’re being overly cautious.”

Upon hearing this, Gu Xian’er regarded him coldly, uttering only in disgust, “If you dare approach me again, I won’t hesitate to act.”

With that, she dissolved into a verdant mist, instantly vanishing from sight.

What irked Gu Xian’er most about the Zi Yang Heavenly King was his persistent inaction, repeatedly intruding merely to exchange pleasantries.

Gu Xian’er felt utterly helpless; she possessed the strength to strike yet lacked a compelling justification.

True to her nature, she couldn’t bring herself to lay a hand on the grinning man.

At that moment, she wished Gu Changge were present. With his temperament, he likely showed no hesitation in putting Zi Yang in his place.

“This guy’s just like his junior sister.”

Observing Gu Xian’er vanish from sight, Zi Yang Heavenly King couldn’t help but shake his head, unperturbed by her departure.

He understood that since Gu Changge intervened in their last encounter, Gu Xian’er had developed a negative opinion of him.

If he displayed enough sincerity, Gu Xian’er would perceive his good intentions and recognize that everything he did was for her benefit.

“I wonder if the man who emerged from among the strange stones… Could it be…”

Soon, Zi Yang Heavenly King’s expression turned puzzled.

He hadn’t been present when the strange stone phenomenon occurred, but based on the images captured by his followers afterward, he felt a strange familiarity with the man who emerged. However, without witnessing it firsthand, he hesitated to believe it.

“If it’s truly the Eldest Senior… It’s a stroke of luck beyond measure…”

With this thought, Zi Yang Heavenly King’s emotions swelled with excitement.

…

“The presence of demonic art inheritors within the True Immortal Academy is indeed unexpected. Though I can’t fathom why two such inheritors exist simultaneously in this world, for both of us, it presents an unparalleled opportunity.”

Meanwhile, Su Qingge remained composed in a cave, her complexion as fair as porcelain, resembling a delicately carved jade.

At that moment, she engaged in an internal dialogue with another voice.

She naturally caught wind of the news about a prodigy falling victim to the treacherous hand of the demonic art inheritor.

Initially, Su Qingge harbored some concerns. After all, clandestine action on her part might arouse suspicion and ultimately unveil her secret as a demonic art inheritor.

However, with another demonic art inheritor making a move, she felt a sense of relief. No one would suspect her, even if she targeted the remaining geniuses.

The only potential complication lay in the possibility of her whereabouts and actions being traced back to Ying Shuang.

“I just need to exercise discreet caution to evade detection by the elders, and everything will be fine…”

“When the time comes, all blame can be shifted onto Ying Shuang.”

Su Qingge’s eyes betrayed the complexity of her thoughts.

Despite practicing forbidden demonic art, her cultivation and methods were on par with those of quasi-candidate disciples. She had even kept this fact hidden from Gu Changge.

She couldn’t predict how long she could maintain this facade. Gu Changge was exceptionally astute; the slightest hint could lead him to uncover her secret.

“I can only hope that day doesn’t arrive too soon…”

With a slight sigh, Su Qingge’s figure flickered and departed from the cave, her agenda guiding her actions.

In the present era, the True Immortal Academy has assembled the most exceptional young prodigies from the upper realm. Each individual possessed unique bloodlines and physiques, with many boasting special attributes, leaving Su Qingge feeling gratified.

Having acclimated to the Forbidden Demonic Art, Su Qingge couldn’t cultivate in a conventional step-by-step manner. Gu Changge, situated within the palace, sensed her departure as she emerged from the cave. He had covertly left a method to monitor Su Qingge’s movements.

“Is Su Qingge finally taking action?” Gu Changge mused, his interest piqued. He had been anticipating Su Qingge’s move, knowing it would be instrumental in drawing out Mo Lao’s attention.

With purpose, Gu Changge advanced, first making his way to a divine mountain deep within the True Immortal Academy. Numerous elders convened within the mountain’s resplendent palace, engrossed in discussion. Gu Changge’s sudden appearance perplexed them.

“Young Master Changge, what brings you here at such an hour?” They greeted Gu Changge with courtesy, albeit puzzled by his unanticipated visit.

Gu Changge smiled, appearing somewhat resigned as he addressed them. “I’m curious if the elders have any leads on the recent matter concerning the demonic art inheritor.”

His inquiry stiffened the atmosphere, evoking subtle sarcasm. It was evident that Gu Changge had come seeking answers.

As elders of the True Immortal Academy, their failure to locate the demonic art inheritor was an uncomfortable reality. The silence that followed felt awkward, each elder grappling with their apprehensions. Mo Lao, in particular, furrowed his brow, sensing the situation taking a potentially unfavorable turn. Could Gu Changge possess a method to uncover the whereabouts of the demonic art inheritor?

A slight unease crept into his heart, fearing that Gu Changge had uncovered some traces.

“It appears the elders are as clueless as the younger generation,” Gu Changge remarked, observing their expressions without surprise.

Shaking his head with a hint of frustration, he continued, “To be honest, I boasted in front of many disciples that I would uncover the whereabouts of the demonic art inheritor. Yet, here I am with nothing to show for it, which is rather embarrassing.”

“That’s why I’ve come to seek your counsel, elders, to see if there are any leads or insights.”

His words elicited a collective exhale of relief from the assembly, including Elder Mo, as smiles graced their faces. Gu Changge’s earnest demeanor was deeply appreciated, giving them a momentary reprieve.

“Young Master Changge, there’s no need for embarrassment. The demonic art inheritor this time is particularly elusive, leaving behind no discernible traces. We find ourselves at a loss as well, without any clear countermeasures,” several elders chimed in, their voices tinged with helplessness.

“Indeed, Young Master Changge, you’ve done all that could be expected,” Mo Lao added, nodding in agreement. He couldn’t help but feel relieved. Ying Shuang’s methods appeared well concealed, explaining his confidence during their previous encounter. Even Gu Changge, troubled by the situation, sought their counsel, putting Mo Lao’s mind at ease.

“If it weren’t for this, the younger generation wouldn’t trouble the elders in the middle of the night…” Gu Changge sighed, appearing even more helpless. “But there is a method for this junior to trace the demonic art inheritor. Of course, it’s more tedious and time-consuming.”

“I just wanted to inquire if the elders have the time to assist the younger generation in this endeavor and explore together.”

“Eavesdropping on disciples?” Mo Lao’s heart skipped a beat. His worst fear had materialized; Gu Changge wasn’t deterred by trouble.

“Indeed, spying on disciples… It’s truly troublesome, time-consuming, and relies heavily on luck. What if we don’t come across anything…” Gu Changge affirmed, noting the challenges.

Upon hearing this, the elders fell into silence, their expressions reflecting their reluctance to assist in such a task.

“In that case, the younger generation won’t press the matter further,” Gu Changge remarked, observing their reaction with a hint of disdain before preparing to depart.

The elders looked embarrassed, none daring to protest further. They saw the futility and inconvenience of pursuing such a thankless task.

How many disciples did the True Immortal Academy have? How could they possibly spy on all of them? And who knew if the demonic art inheritor would act then? There were too many uncertainties. It was akin to searching for a needle in a haystack, except they weren’t even sure if it was at the ocean’s bottom.

Yet, Gu Changge’s unwavering determination and resolve still commanded respect. He truly lived up to his reputation as the strongest among the younger generation.

“Young Master Changge, please wait. This old man will accompany you tonight to conduct our initial investigation,” Mo Lao suddenly interjected as if resolving a problematic dilemma.

Disturbed by Gu Changge’s words, Mo Lao couldn’t shake the nagging thought: would Ying Shuang genuinely make a move tonight? Regardless, he couldn’t risk encountering Gu Changge. Hence, he devised a plan to accompany Gu Changge in their investigation, providing cover for Ying Shuang.

Surprise flickered in the eyes of the other elders as Mo Lao agreed to Gu Changge’s request. “Oh? Then the younger generation extends its gratitude to Elder Mo for his cooperation,” Gu Changge responded, his smile tinged with a hint of knowing.

He had orchestrated his words precisely to prompt Mo Lao’s initiative. If Mo Lao hadn’t agreed, his subsequent plan would have been in jeopardy.

“You needn’t say more, Young Master Changge. It’s all for the benefit of the disciples; there’s nothing to worry about,” Mo Lao reassured, his demeanor exuding authority and reassurance.

“Elder Mo, shall we split up and investigate separately? I’ll cover this side first, and you can handle the other,” Gu Changge proposed.

“Then, how about reconvening in the next area?” he added.

Subsequently, Gu Changge and Mo Lao transformed into divine lights, swiftly arriving at the area where disciples typically cultivated. Gu Changge scanned the surrounding mountains, then gestured towards the direction Su Qingge had gone, offering a smile to Mo Lao.

“No problem,” Mo Lao responded after a moment’s consideration, nodding in agreement. He couldn’t risk arousing suspicion by declining Gu Changge’s proposal.

With that, the two parted ways. Mo Lao’s expression betrayed a hint of perplexity as his spiritual sense swept the area, meticulously exploring every nook and cranny.

….

“Sun Hao, bearer of the mysterious chill, harboring the essence of ancient origins from the esteemed Sun lineage…”

Meanwhile, taking advantage of the moon’s illumination, Su Qingge swiftly arrived at a secluded area. The surrounding mountains soared to great heights, some aglow with ethereal light, others emanating draconic energies—a myriad of atmospheres.

Thankfully, the True Immortal Academy sprawled expansively, mainly deserted at night, ensuring her actions remained discreet and unnoticed.

With calculated precision, Su Qingge approached a cave nestled amidst the sacred mountains, emanating colorful lights. Her expression remained impassive, her countenance serene as jade.

Naturally, she knocked on the cave’s door, simultaneously brushing against the protective runes inscribed. Inside, the cultivator paused, puzzled by the nocturnal visitor.

“Who ventures here at such an hour?” he inquired, his caution evident. Aware of recent disturbances surrounding the demonic art inheritor, he refrained from immediately opening the door.

Not one to act impulsively, he remained vigilant, wary of potential threats.

“It’s me, Senior Brother Sun Hao… Chen You,” Su Qingge’s voice rang out, calm yet melodious, akin to a serene melody.

“Chen You… Junior Sister Chen You?” Sun Hao’s surprise was palpable as he contemplated the possibility. A shy image of Chen You flashed in his mind. Could it be that Junior Sister Chen harbored feelings for him?

During daylight hours, he had attempted to approach Junior Sister Chen You, intending to express his feelings, only to watch her flee. Reflecting on this, the genius in the cave felt excited.

“It seems Junior Sister Chen You prefers the quiet of night, away from the crowds…” he mused, dispelling his earlier doubts. After all, the demonic art inheritor was male; it couldn’t possibly be Junior Sister Chen You.

Su Qingge calmly observed the cave entrance as the other party opened the door, unsurprised by the sight. She had already meticulously planned every detail.

Moments later, a face brimming with excitement emerged, but upon spotting Su Qingge, it suddenly froze in shock.

“Who… who are you?” he began, his words cut short.

Su Qingge waved her slender hand, and the air shimmered with clarity. A menacing darkness enveloped him, runes swirling and crystalline flowers blossoming at the center of his forehead, threatening to cloud his consciousness. Without resistance, he’d succumb to oblivion.

The flower expanded and bloomed in an instant, bearing a fruit emitting an ominous black glow.

“It went smoothly,” Su Qingge murmured, preparing to pluck the fruit.

“Not good…”

“We have an elder here!”

Yet, before she could act further, her expression contorted in alarm. A formidable star-like divine sense swept down from the heavens, locking onto her with chilling precision.

In an instant, Su Qingge’s body grew cold, a shiver running down her spine as a dense chill enveloped her. Her hands and feet turned icy, her back prickling with a cold sensation. She couldn’t fathom it. Why now? She had meticulously calculated that there wouldn’t be any elders scouting tonight, timing everything perfectly. So why this sudden intrusion?

“It’s over. My identity is exposed!” Her inner voice trembled alongside her.

In her subconscious, she couldn’t help but think of Gu Changge. Would he be incredulous, perhaps even shocked, if he discovered her true identity?

Buzz!!!

High above, Mo Lao’s expression underwent a drastic change. He struggled to comprehend what he was witnessing. How could the female disciple below be wielding the Forbidden Demonic Art? As a member of the Demonic Organization, he recognized its unmistakable signs.

“It can’t be… Why is there a second inheritor of the Forbidden Demonic Art? Did I see wrong?” Mo Lao’s mind raced, grappling with disbelief. “It’s impossible. Only one person in a lifetime can inherit the demonic art. Could it be that Emperor Ying’s son, Ying Shuang, was a fraud? An impostor?”

Mo Lao’s thoughts spiraled as he descended from the high altitude, his expression devoid of emotion as he fixed his gaze upon Su Qingge.

Meanwhile, Su Qingge’s complexion paled, a chill coursing down her spine. Despite her mounting anxiety, she forced herself to maintain composure in the presence of this supreme being.

Now facing a supreme being, Su Qingge realized that escape or resistance was futile. Today marked a dead end, devoid of any chance of survival. This unforeseen events left her bitter and sad, far beyond her expectations, pushing her into despair. She even questioned if she could ever face Gu Changge again. The demonic art inheritor he had been tirelessly pursuing was none other than herself, a fact she had concealed from him.

“Come with me,” the elder commanded.

Su Qingge froze, baffled by the elder’s unexpected leniency. He didn’t take further action, his expression shifting momentarily before he gestured for her to follow. Without another word, he whisked her away from the scene.

“Keep today’s events to yourself. Otherwise, no one can guarantee your safety,” the elder cautioned as they reappeared on another mountain.

Still reeling from the encounter, Su Qingge struggled to grasp the sudden turn of events. After discovering her identity, why had the elder refrained from punitive action and instead offered her guidance? Did he intend to aid her?

“It wouldn’t bode well if Gu Changge were to find out later…” Mo Lao’s expression darkened, sensing the gravity of the situation. Su Qingge’s suspicion loomed large, presenting a formidable obstacle to overcome.

And just as Mo Lao was speaking, a divine rainbow streaked across the sky from another direction, heralding the arrival of Gu Changge, his expression solemn.

“Elder Mo, things have unfolded as I anticipated. Indeed, some disciples have fallen victim to the demonic art inheritor’s poisonous schemes,” Gu Changge reported, a tinge of regret in his voice. “We’re still a step behind.”

Gu Changge’s voice trailed off as he spoke, his gaze fixing on Su Qingge beside Elder Mo, a hint of surprise flickering across his features.

“Qingge, what brings you here?” he inquired, his expression shifting as a sudden realization dawned upon him.

“Young master…” Su Qingge’s voice quivered with panic, her heart pounding with unease.

“Don’t worry, I’m here,” Gu Changge reassured her with a glance before turning his attention to Elder Mo. His tone took on a more profound gravity.

“Elder Mo, perhaps there’s been a misunderstanding. Qingge is under my care. It’s inconceivable that she could be associated with the demonic art inheritor. I can vouch for her innocence.”