I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 290

Chapter 290: I don’t believe that I’m a good person wither, Ji Qingxuan’s plan

“It seems I still need to strategize further,” Gu Changge mused to himself. “This time, alongside the third prince of the Ancient Vermilion Bird Kingdom, there’s a hidden Great Sacred Realm cultivator lurking in the shadows.”

“It appears to be a guardian-like figure, but the third prince’s cultivation seems to surpass the Great Sacred Realm, nearly reaching the quasi-supreme level.”

Perched on the eaves of a palace, Gu Changge stepped forward, his figure materializing in the space. With his robes billowing and his hair shining like crystal, he resembled an exiled immortal poised to ascend into the heavens.

Surveying the surroundings, Gu Changge observed the fluctuations in the fortunes of the entire Ancient Vermilion Bird Kingdom. In some mansions, auspicious signs abounded, with dragons and tigers leaping, while in others, celestial imagery imbued the atmosphere with a divine radiance, even under the blazing sun.

Yet, only through his eyes, honed through the refinement of the Way of Reincarnation, could he perceive the world’s evolution. Even the Origin Master, skilled in terrain manipulation, would remain oblivious to these insights.

“Aha, the image of the python swallowing the dragon…” Gu Changge’s smile was enigmatic. Whether it was a metaphorical python or an actual dragon, to him, they represented the transformations occurring within the Ancient Vermilion Bird Kingdom due to the chosen son’s auspicious fortune.

Previously, the kingdom’s luck had been akin to a mere sparrow. With the birth of Chu Hao, it had evolved into a python. Now, the kingdom seemed poised to swallow the dragon and undergo a profound metamorphosis.

Such profound changes would likely elude even the keen eyes of the Origin Master. Gu Changge doubted whether the current lord of the Ancient Vermilion Bird Kingdom had taken notice of these developments.

In other immortal sects and supreme immortal dynasties, specialized powerhouses were tasked with monitoring and guarding the fluctuations in the dragon veins of luck. They remained vigilant to changes in the atmospheric luck, enabling them to anticipate future developments in advance. Such luck, intertwined with the sect’s and Dao’s future plans, was meticulously observed and managed.

However, in the Ancient Vermilion Bird Kingdom, such attention to the fluctuations of luck was absent, allowing them to develop and evolve unchecked.

“Indeed, without the birth of the chosen one, the luck would have remained akin to a small sparrow, as it naturally should. But if it grows into a dragon elephant, it signifies at least a significant shift in the teaching’s trajectory…” Gu Changge mused.

In the blink of an eye, Gu Changge traversed the void, his form blurring as he located the source of the dragon’s luck.

Thousands of feet below the ground, he materialized in a cavernous chamber. Before him lay vast dragon veins coalescing, exuding a majestic and formidable presence, resembling a real dragon coursing through the darkness.

Gu Changge was taken aback to find the dragon vein already displaying the semblance of a dragon, complete with a head, whiskers, claws, and tail, albeit its body remained unformed. Given time, it could mature into a genuine dragon.

The Ancient Vermilion Bird Kingdom lacked even a supreme being, making such growth from a small sparrow to this stage unimaginable.

“This dragon vein…” Gu Changge’s lips twitched, almost breaking into laughter.

With a burst of divine light emanating from his hand, he created a terrifying pitch-black void, effectively sealing off any escape route for the dragon veins. The consequences of the Ancient Vermilion Bird Kingdom missing out on this dragon vein were of no concern to him.

Roar!!

The real dragon, quietly absorbing dragon energy and luck in the darkness, suddenly sensed Gu Changge’s presence. A profound sense of danger washed over it as it acknowledged the young man’s intrusion.

With intelligence already developed, the dragon couldn’t help emitting a low roar, attempting to intimidate Gu Changge. Its majestic and fearsome aura permeated the darkness, and if Gu Changge were to seal off the area with his void palm print, it would undoubtedly attract attention from cultivators outside.

“Don’t be alarmed, I mean you no harm,” Gu Changge reassured with a smile, stepping forward in the void toward the dragon.

“See what I have here?” he asked, opening a jade bottle in his palm. A vibrant green glow emanated from within, scattering immortal energy into the darkness. This was the immortal spirit he had found on the immortal road, yet to be refined. For the dragon, such a treasure was akin to heavenly nectar, carrying an irresistible allure.

“I simply wish to establish a friendship with you,” Gu Changge continued, his smile unwavering as the dragon fixated on the jade pot in his hand. “I am not your enemy.”

Simultaneously, the Dao bottle emerged with a black light, hovering behind Gu Changge, emitting tendrils of darkness with a vaguely ominous devouring intent.

“You doubt my intentions?” Gu Changge observed the skepticism in the dragon’s eyes, shaking his head with a sigh. “Truth be told, I’m not entirely sure myself.”

Buzz!!

As Gu Changge finished speaking, a terrifying and immense gray fog surged from behind him, shrouding the sky and blotting out the sun, engulfing the dark underground in an instant.

Terrified, the dragon attempted to flee, but Gu Changge’s palm descended from the sky, sealing off its escape route.

In the heavens above, the treasure bottle transformed into an infinite black hole, swallowing the dragon vein in a single gulp.

“It’s unfortunate that you were destined to become a true dragon in the future,” Gu Changge lamented. “But your essence will serve me well.”

Seated cross-legged, Gu Changge absorbed the energy of the dragon vein. His cultivation, already at the peak of the Sacred Realm, surged forward, breaking through to the Great Sacred Realm in an instant!

…

In the tranquil courtyard, the only sounds were the rustling of bamboo leaves in the gentle breeze.

Su Qingge’s explanations weren’t particularly significant. For her, it was simply routine information about Gu Changge’s personality, preferences, and habits, as well as their interactions.

For instance, Gu Changge preferred tea brewed from million-year-old Immortal leaves, sourced exclusively from an ancient sacred mountain. The tea had to be brewed for just the right amount of time—no longer. Spiritual fruits had to be at least 800,000 years old, and those with many seeds were to be avoided.

In summary, Gu Changge had strict requirements in these matters, which he referred to as “enjoyment.”

Ji Qingxuan listened attentively, hardly uttering a word. It was evident that she took great care in absorbing this information.

“Got it,” Ji Qingxuan replied with a nod, her expression serious, indicating she understood the importance of the task.

Su Qingge smiled, reassured by her sister’s commitment. “That’s good.”

“Let me update you on my situation,” Ji Qingxuan continued. “Aside from Big Brother Chu Hao, keep an eye on everyone else, especially Wang Xiao. He’s not a good person, Sister, you have to be cautious. The guardian accompanying me on this journey is actually from the royal family, not the Ji clan.”

As Ji Qingxuan mentioned Wang Xiao, disgust flickered in her eyes.

“Not even the guardians are from the Ji clan…” Su Qingge paused, a hint of pity in her eyes. What did this imply? It suggested that despite Ji Qingxuan’s talent, she still didn’t garner the Ji family’s attention. Furthermore, Ji Qingxuan’s words hinted that Wang Xiao likely harbored ill intentions toward her.

Understanding the situation, Su Qingge comforted her sister with a smile. “I understand. I’ll keep an eye out.”

“Don’t worry, with me here, Wang Xiao won’t dare to bully you,” Su Qingge assured her.

Ji Qingxuan was slightly surprised by Su Qingge’s confident words, her eyes reflecting that surprise. It seemed she hadn’t anticipated Su Qingge’s bold declaration. Where did Su Qingge get the confidence to make such a claim? Was it because she was associated with Gu Changge?

“I understand, sister,” Ji Qingxuan replied, accepting the talisman without further questions. She understood that everyone had their own secrets.

“This ancient talisman can conceal your aura. I often use it to remain hidden, so you shouldn’t worry about being detected,” Su Qingge explained, handing the simple-styled talisman to Ji Qingxuan.

Taking the talisman, Ji Qingxuan couldn’t help but wonder why Su Qingge possessed so many methods. Did she really need to conceal her aura as Gu Changge’s associate? Did anyone dare to challenge her in this world?

Though she kept her thoughts to herself, Ji Qingxuan grew increasingly curious about Su Qingge’s true identity. It seemed she didn’t solely rely on her association with Gu Changge.

Afterward, the two changed their clothes and hair accessories to ensure they looked identical. Su Qingge even applied light makeup on Ji Qingxuan to further disguise any differences between them.

“Now we’re truly identical,” Su Qingge remarked, sighing softly as she touched Ji Qingxuan’s face.

“Yeah,” Ji Qingxuan agreed softly. “Sister, I’ll leave first.”

Su Qingge nodded, watching Ji Qingxuan depart the courtyard until she disappeared in the direction of the Vermilion Bird Palace. As she watched her sister leave, Su Qingge’s expression became momentarily complicated, and she let out a soft sigh.

“Qing Xuan, don’t try to manipulate things,” Su Qingge cautioned her sister. “Young Master is not someone you can control.”

As a sister, Su Qingge faintly sensed Ji Qingxuan’s intentions, but she chose not to intervene. In truth, she had her own motives and interests, not solely focused on assisting her sister. She also observed Ji Qingxuan’s apparent interest in Gu Changge and was curious about her sister’s scheme.

Although they were sisters, they had never met before, making it unrealistic to expect complete trust and openness solely based on their blood relationship. Su Qingge knew better than to expect Ji Qingxuan’s unwavering trust.

Ji Qingxuan’s envy of Su Qingge’s life likely stemmed from her suspicion about Su Qingge’s relationship with Gu Changge. If Su Qingge hadn’t been familiar with Gu Changge’s various tactics and behaviors, she might not have seen through Ji Qingxuan’s scheme.

Another voice in Su Qingge’s mind couldn’t help but laugh sarcastically and accuse her of calculating against her own sister. However, Su Qingge remained calm, explaining, “It’s not exactly calculation. We both have our own agendas, and we happen to be near the young master recently. We can’t simply leave…”

As the inheritor of demonic arts, Su Qingge had her own responsibilities and objectives, distinct from those of ordinary geniuses. She wouldn’t be focused solely on battling Heavenly Extinction Creatures to save the ancient Vermilion Bird Kingdom. Instead, she had her own plans.

Furthermore, after multiple encounters with Mo Lao, Su Qingge had learned about a secretive organization of demonic art inheritors. Though its members were unaware of each other’s identities, they could provide assistance when needed.

Mo Lao also informed her that there were other members of the demonic arts inheritors’ organization hidden within the True Immortal Academy. This revelation led Su Qingge to believe that the uproar surrounding the demonic arts inheritors was orchestrated by the organization to obscure the truth and create opportunities for her growth.

“This trial is my chance to capitalize on the chaos. With Ji Qingxuan pretending to be me, I can also dispel suspicions in front of the master…” Su Qingge mused, plotting her next moves. “Zi Yang holds a grudge against the young master, so I’ll target him first.”

As she contemplated her plans, a cold smile crossed Su Qingge’s face.

Meanwhile, Wang Xiao, who had been anxiously waiting in the pavilion, grew impatient as time passed without any sign of Ji Qingxuan emerging from the mansion. Deciding to investigate, he intended to leave for a drink and discover who Ji Qingxuan was meeting secretly.

In Wang Xiao’s eyes, Ji Qingxuan was merely a pawn that would eventually succumb to him, despite her current disdain and indifference. He knew that Ji Qingxuan’s situation in the hidden Ji family was precarious, and she would likely become a bargaining chip in marriage arrangements.

Suddenly, Wang Xiao spotted a familiar figure exiting the mansion. Tall, slender, and dressed in pristine white attire, with a coldly beautiful face resembling flawless jade. In Wang Xiao’s perception, it was Ji Qingxuan, albeit with a changed appearance.

“I know exactly what I’m doing. I need to find out who Ji Qingxuan is meeting,” Wang Xiao muttered, his expression sour. With a swift movement, he vanished from the pavilion and reappeared before Ji Qingxuan.

“Junior Sister Ji, who are you meeting?” Wang Xiao demanded, his tone laced with displeasure.

However, Ji Qingxuan, disguised as Su Qingge, maintained her cold facade upon seeing Wang Xiao for the first time. Frowning, she responded in a chilly voice, “And who might you be?”

Wang Xiao was momentarily taken aback by Ji Qingxuan’s response. Did she truly not recognize him, or was she pretending? He chuckled, thinking she was feigning ignorance to evade him.

“You dare to play ignorant, Ji Qingxuan…” Wang Xiao laughed, believing Ji Qingxuan was deliberately feigning ignorance. After all, tracking her down was no easy feat.

But Ji Qingxuan’s cold demeanor persisted. “Where did you come from, you audacious fool? Do you even know who I am?” Her voice dripped with a chilling intensity, revealing her contempt for Wang Xiao. This was her chance to enact revenge on him for past grievances.

Ji Qingxuan, masquerading as Su Qingge, knew she had the support of Gu Changge. With her sister’s identity and Gu Changge’s backing, she felt empowered to confront Wang Xiao fearlessly.

“Ji Qingxuan, you’re quite bold. Don’t forget the lineage of your Ji family…” Wang Xiao began, but his words faltered as he realized Ji Qingxuan’s unwavering facade. He questioned her true identity and her backing, doubting whether she truly possessed the influence like cultivation she claimed.

With a sneer, Wang Xiao taunted, “I called you Junior Sister Ji out of respect for Senior Brother, but it seems you take yourself far too seriously. Who is really backing you? Is it the Ji family? Can they truly protect you?”

Ji Qingxuan’s gaze turned even colder as Wang Xiao’s true intentions were laid bare, her grip on her fist tightening. Despite the Ji family’s disregard for her, Wang Xiao’s audacity was an affront she couldn’t ignore

“You’re asking for trouble!”

However, bound by her guise as Su Qingge, Ji Qingxuan didn’t need to hesitate or fear the repercussions of her actions. In a swift motion, she unsheathed her long sword, unleashing a ferocious sword light aimed at Wang Xiao, its intensity enough to rend the heavens.

“Ji Qingxuan, you wouldn’t dare strike me, would you?” Wang Xiao’s complexion paled as he watched Ji Qingxuan’s sudden aggression, disbelief etched across his face.

He never anticipated that Ji Qingxuan would dare to attack him with such merciless intent. Faced with her lethal assault, Wang Xiao panicked, realizing he was no match for her if she truly intended to harm him.

“You’re dead, you bastard!”

Ji Qingxuan’s demeanor remained icy as she was resolute in her decision to eliminate Wang Xiao. The opportunity presented itself too perfectly to pass up

With a sharp sound, Ji Qingxuan’s sword unleashed a devastating strike, its chilling aura reverberating through the air. The sheer force of her attack caused the void to tremble as if on the brink of collapse, its intensity nearly unbearable.

In a desperate bid to defend himself, Wang Xiao summoned a golden shield, its brilliance illuminating the sky. Despite its formidable appearance, Ji Qingxuan’s sword shattered it with a resounding crack, reducing it to nothing but shards in an instant.