I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 312
Chapter 312: Buttoning the hat, adding fuel to the fire, Jin Chan triggered public anger
“Prince Sheng has fallen…”
The six-crowned king’s words hung heavy in the air, plunging the surroundings into a somber silence, eliciting a collective gasp of disbelief from the onlookers.
With such authoritative figures as the Heavenly Phoenix Maiden and the usually enigmatic six-crowned king attesting to Prince Sheng’s demise, any lingering doubts were dispelled.
“It can’t be…”
“Could Prince Sheng truly have met his end here? But he’s a scion of the Emperor Mountain, the Divine Emperor’s son, endowed with immense power and formidable resources. How could this happen…”
“The inheritor of demonic arts devised a treacherous scheme to eliminate us all. Truly diabolical!”
The revelation left many geniuses stunned, their minds reeling with shock and disbelief, a chill coursing through their bodies.
One trembling voice dared to voice the unthinkable: “It’s impossible. The master is supremely powerful, protected by the Emperor’s supreme artifact. How could he perish here…”
“This must be a falsehood. Surely, the master is elsewhere, beyond these troubled lands.”
The followers of Prince Sheng stood dumbfounded as if struck by lightning, their faces drained of color, struggling to reconcile the inconceivable notion that their invincible leader could have succumbed to the clutches of the inheritor of demonic arts.
In their eyes, Prince Sheng was destined for greatness, his path inexorably leading to triumph and glory.
The mere thought of Heavenly Emperor Mountain learning of this tragedy filled them with dread and apprehension.
The tumultuous waves and seismic upheavals were not an exaggeration to describe the scene.
“Ugh…”
“With even Young Master Changge sustaining severe injuries, it’s not unthinkable that Prince Sheng met his end here.”
Many sighed deeply, their eyes heavy with sorrow, their thoughts mired in complexity as they braced for the inevitable fallout.
The tranquility that had prevailed over the Upper Realm for so long was sure to be shattered by this incident.
“Gu Changge’s strength notwithstanding, it seems Ying Shuang is not to be underestimated.”
The Six Crowned King, Heavenly Phoenix Maiden, and their entourage paid little heed to the distraught followers of Prince Sheng. They turned their attention to Gu Changge, their expressions varying, before making their way over.
“Amitabha, it is time for us to gather, fellow Daoists.”
“It is regrettable that Prince Sheng has fallen victim to the wicked machinations of the inheritor of demonic arts…”
On the other side, Jin Chan nearly recovered, joined them.
As he approached, bloodstains adorned his garments, and the aura of Buddha radiated from him.
There was a sense of detachment in his demeanor.
At Jin Chan’s words, the hopeful young geniuses’ expressions darkened with disappointment.
“Does Jin Chan comprehend the cause and effect?” inquired the Heavenly Phoenix Maiden, her towering figure imposing as she spoke.
With her long, slender legs, she stood much taller than the average nun, exuding an indescribable air of authority.
“I know only this much: when this humble monk arrived, Prince Sheng had already fallen victim to a vicious attack, and even Young Master Changge had suffered grave injuries. As for events preceding my arrival, I remain in the dark,” Jin Chan responded with a faint smile, his reply devoid of divulgence.
“Indeed? Even Jin Chan is unaware of the events that transpired here. No wonder he remains unscathed and unharmed,” remarked the Six-Crowned King, his expression taking on a peculiar cast as he scrutinized Jin Chan with keen interest.
To him, Jin Chan’s cultivation prowess seemed on par with Prince Sheng’s.
Given that he had entered the fray alongside Prince Sheng, it was perplexing that while Prince Sheng met his demise and Gu Changge sustained severe injuries, Jin Chan remained unscathed.
It was a puzzle, suggesting either Jin Chan had concealed his true strength masterfully or he had managed to evade involvement in the conflict altogether.
Jin Chan’s explanation seemed more like an attempt to avoid admitting foreknowledge of danger and a strategic retreat.
Such thoughts flitted through the minds of many present, causing a subtle shift in their expressions, though none voiced their suspicions, their hearts simmering with curiosity.
Upon hearing this, Jin Chan remained unsurprised, maintaining his smile as he responded, “The humble monk also regrets not arriving sooner.”
Subsequently, everyone hurried to Gu Changge’s location, yet his followers nearly overran the mountain range.
Their vigilant gazes swept the area, wary of any sudden attacks on the severely injured Gu Changge, for who knew if the inheritor of demonic arts had forged hidden alliances.
The skies and earth were draped in numerous treasures, with holy artifacts floating amidst a kaleidoscope of colors and mists, emanating an ominous aura.
As soon as Gu Xian’er, Yin Mei, and the others arrived, they rushed to Gu Changge’s side, their faces etched with concern.
Even Gu Xian’er, accustomed to trading barbs with Gu Changge, clasped her hands together in worry, her demeanor fraught with unease.
It was unprecedented for her to witness Gu Changge in such a dire state.
Yet, at this moment, she felt helpless, only able to watch as he battled the demonic energy coursing through his body, his countenance serene but pallid.
Recalling their encounter in the Heavenly Dao Immortal Palace, where Gu Changge had willingly absorbed her retaliatory strike for revenge, she couldn’t help but draw a parallel.
His nonresistance then had resulted in a grievous injury, much like the one he currently endured.
“Senior Brother Changge possesses formidable cultivation and a profound foundation. This injury shouldn’t pose a problem,” Yin Mei reassured, her tone calming.
Gu Xian’er nodded, her expression softening slightly.
However, she harbored another concern: if Gu Changge couldn’t suppress his demonic heart due to the severity of his injury, what would they do? Apart from Gu Changge himself, no one present seemed capable of aiding him in such a situation.
“How is Brother Changge?” inquired the Heavenly Phoenix Maiden, her eyes alight with divine radiance while wisps of immortal phoenix-like runes flickered around her, assessing Gu Changge’s condition.
Similarly, the Six Crowned King, his gaze ablaze with divine light, meticulously examined Gu Changge’s aura. Eventually, he inwardly shook his head, realizing that Gu Changge had indeed harmed his origin. Moreover, the forbidden technique he had employed had exacerbated the injury, leaving his recovery uncertain.
“This time, the inheritor of demonic arts has succeeded in their plan. Gu Changge won’t be able to utilize his spiritual energy for at least half a month,” lamented the Six-Crowned King. “Emperor Mountain will undoubtedly be incensed by Prince Sheng’s death, but their hands are tied. After all, Prince Ying was once their descendant…”
As he contemplated, the Six Crowned King cast a discerning glance at Jin Chan, noting his unusually composed demeanor amidst Gu Changge’s injury. It seemed as though he had anticipated these events beforehand.
“Amitabha, Young Master Changge’s willingness to sacrifice his essence despite his grave injury to confront the inheritor of demonic arts is truly admirable,” remarked Jin Chan with a gentle smile.
With that, he produced a crystal-clear, pale yellow medicinal pill from his Buddhist robe, its surface reflecting myriad Buddha lights, casting a mysterious, colorful glow that illuminated the void with holy light.
It seemed as though a congregation of eminent monks who had attained enlightenment were present, ready to chant and dispel any negativity.
“This is a unique holy Buddha pill from Buddha Mountain, refined by monks who have attained enlightenment through the power of merit and virtue. It’s highly effective in expelling all kinds of evil and demonic auras,” explained Jin Chan. “Perhaps it could aid Young Master Changge’s injury.”
Gu Changge, seated cross-legged, maintained a calm and steadfast expression despite the swirling strands of black mist around him, hinting at the lingering presence of an evil spirit. Apart from his severe injury, there seemed to be nothing out of the ordinary about him.
Upon hearing Jin Chan’s offer, Gu Changge opened his eyes and cast a light glance in his direction. “Jin Chan’s kindness is appreciated, but you should reserve this holy Buddha pill for future needs,” he responded. “Next time, if the Buddha’s son encounters the inheritor of demonic arts again, he may not be as fortunate as he is now.”
Though his words carried a light tone, the expressions of many geniuses changed upon hearing them. They discerned Gu Changge’s dissatisfaction with Jin Chan, coupled with a hint of mockery.
This left many perplexed, prompting them to speculate about the underlying cause of Gu Changge’s attitude. Even the Six-Crowned King, intrigued, narrowed his eyes, sensing that there might be more to the situation than met the eye.
“What’s going on? Why does Young Master Changge hold such an attitude toward Jin Chan?” murmured the bewildered geniuses, puzzled by the apparent conflict between the two figures.
Gu Xian’er, the Heavenly Phoenix Maiden, and others directed their gaze at Jin Chan, seemingly expecting an explanation from him.
“Yeah, what happened back there? How did Jin Chan, who entered first, emerge unscathed while Young Master Changge suffered severe injuries?” one person queried.
“Could it be that the inheritor of demonic arts spared Jin Chan?” another speculated.
As the crowd rushed over, they witnessed Gu Changge forcefully tapping into his origin, burning his blood, unleashing a terrifying blow, and compelling the inheritor of demonic arts to retreat. During this crucial moment, many failed to notice Jin Chan and remained unaware of his actions.
Reflecting on this, numerous geniuses began to piece together the situation and harbored a sense of contempt and disdain toward him. As a Buddhist, he failed to appear at the critical moment, leaving the severely injured Gu Changge to bear the brunt of the battle alone. In contrast, while Gu Changge typically displayed domineering behavior, his righteous actions were deemed even more admirable.
“I appreciate your concern, Brother Changge, but I still have plenty of Buddha pills with me. If I happen to encounter the inheritor of demonic arts again, I’ll have a way out,” Jin Chan responded, taken aback by Gu Changge’s unexpected remark. His expression shifted slightly, but he quickly regained his composure and offered a faint smile.
“This time, Jin Chan truly lucked out. Who would’ve imagined we’d act separately at that moment,” Gu Changge remarked with a slight sigh, choosing not to refute Jin Chan’s statement.
As he attempted to rise, Gu Changge inadvertently touched his injury, causing him to pale once more. He coughed up blood, appearing even more weakened. Witnessing this, many young women’s hearts clenched with concern. Was this still the revered Gu Changge they knew? In this moment, he seemed more akin to a forsaken immortal, enduring the hardships of an abandoned world.
“Gu Changge, are you alright?” Gu Xian’er rushed over to support him, her worry evident.
“I’m fine, it’s nothing,” Gu Changge reassured her with a slight smile. However, before he could finish speaking, blood spilled from the corner of his mouth, his complexion growing even paler.
“Please don’t speak. You’re only trying to appear brave,” Gu Xian’er insisted, feeling a pang of distress. She retrieved a clean handkerchief and gently wiped away the blood for him.
The onlookers wore varied expressions.
Many people were already aware of Gu Xian’er’s identity, so Gu Changge’s revelation didn’t come as a surprise.
“What Young Master Changge said is quite true. I should have stayed with Prince Sheng at that time. If I hadn’t acted separately, I wouldn’t have fallen into such a dire situation,” Jin Chan sighed in agreement, his surprise evident at Gu Changge’s unexpected words. Was this Gu Changge’s way of explaining?
This left everyone feeling a bit puzzled. “Since Jin Chan knew that all of this was the scheme of the inheritor of demonic arts, why didn’t he stop Prince Sheng?” Gu Changge queried casually, ignoring Gu Xian’er’s intense stare. He had a knack for handling such delicate matters.
With Prince Sheng’s unexpected mishap, the inheritor of demonic arts took the brunt of the blame. However, Ying Shuang’s connection posed a dilemma as he was also a descendant of Emperor Mountain. Therefore, it was imperative to boost Emperor Mountain’s prestige in this situation, making Jin Chan the most suitable candidate.
Furthermore, the Hanging Buddhist Temple, located on Buddha Mountain, was established to monitor the changes in the Burial Demon Abyss. Gu Changge’s action toward Jin Chan was part of his strategic planning for future events.
“Gu Changge, please stop talking. It’s hurting him,” Gu Xian’er interjected softly.
“Young Master Changge, what are you trying to imply?” Jin Chan’s expression shifted slightly, though he remained composed. He understood that Gu Changge was attempting to make him feel guilty. While he was aware that the inheritor of demonic arts had orchestrated everything, he chose not to intervene. He believed Prince Sheng was too arrogant to heed his advice, making interference futile. Instead, he allowed events to unfold naturally.
However, Gu Changge’s insistence on this matter instantly thrust Jin Chan into the heart of the storm.
“Jin Chan knew that all of this was the scheme of the inheritor of demonic arts?” The expressions of Heavenly Phoenix Maiden, Ying Yu, and others shifted, while the Six Crowned King remained unchanged as if he had anticipated this. Many geniuses, particularly Prince Sheng’s followers, were furious upon hearing this revelation and demanded an explanation from Jin Chan.
Since Jin Chan knew this was a conspiracy, why didn’t he intervene? Wasn’t this a genuine desire to harm Prince Sheng and Gu Changge? No wonder Gu Changge displayed such an attitude towards him just now.
“As a monk, or a descendant of Buddha Mountain, to harbor such malicious intentions…” Gu Changge’s tone carried a hint of disbelief.
“Jin Chan, shouldn’t you explain?” The geniuses from Heavenly Emperor Mountain couldn’t help but confront Jin Chan, a bold move they wouldn’t dare under normal circumstances. But with Prince Sheng’s demise, their fate didn’t seem much better, so fear was not a factor.
“Why did Young Master Changge say this?” Jin Chan questioned calmly, directing his gaze solely at Gu Changge, disregarding the others.
Gu Changge met his gaze, maintaining his composure. “This cultivator didn’t deceive. I hope Jin Chan will candidly confess and provide an explanation for Prince Sheng.”
Gu Xian’er felt a surge of annoyance at being ignored, but considering Gu Changge’s current state, she let it slide. Instead, she focused her gaze on Jin Chan with a hint of disdain.
“I, too, hope that Young Lord Changge will bring justice to my master!” one of Prince Sheng’s followers pleaded.
“I implore Young Master Changge to seek justice for my master!” echoed another.
Puff!
In response, all the geniuses from Heavenly Emperor Mountain dropped to their knees, realizing Jin Chan wouldn’t heed their pleas, and beseeched Gu Changge to serve justice for their fallen prince. They understood that, aside from Gu Changge, no one present could advocate for Prince Sheng.
Behind Jin Chan, Buddha Mountain held considerable influence comparable to Emperor Mountain. The six crowned kings and others observed the unfolding drama with detached interest.
While Prince Sheng’s demise was linked to the inheritor of demonic arts, it also implicated Jin Chan.
“Please rise. I am truly powerless to help Prince Sheng,” Gu Changge addressed them with a sigh of resignation.
“Young Master Changge indeed possesses prescience akin to a deity,” remarked one.
“At that time, this monk did suspect the conspiracy’s origins lay with the inheritor of demonic arts,” Jin Chan admitted with a sigh. He upheld the truth, knowing any falsehood would violate his vows and render his spiritual cultivation futile.
His candid admission surprised everyone, their pupils dilating in response.
“Prince Sheng’s fate seems just,” the six-crowned king remarked, not surprised by Jin Chan’s confession. He knew the monk to be astute.
Jin Chan’s retreat from the demonic art conspiracy, unnoticed by Prince Sheng, was a calculated move.
“Why did you target my master, Jin Chan? He did not quarrel with you,” the Heavenly Emperor Mountain geniuses demanded an explanation, their expressions laden with anger and disdain.
“Prince Sheng’s fate was of his own making. It was beyond my influence,” Jin Chan replied evenly, offering his condolences.
His response ignited fresh anger among the geniuses. His seemingly hypocritical condolence, juxtaposed with his lack of intervention, seemed insincere. Saving a life or witnessing death—was his inaction mere persuasion?
Prince Sheng wasn’t foolish. Had he been aware of the conspiracy, he would have surely chosen retreat over certain death. Conversely, Gu Changge had repeatedly faced severe injuries at the hands of the inheritor of demonic arts. Despite his usual strength, he readily stood against injustice, earning admiration from many geniuses. Comparatively, more were now swayed by Gu Changge’s integrity. Jin Chan’s words had sparked widespread anger! Even the Heavenly Phoenix Maiden and the Six-Crowned King found it challenging to interject.
As the crowd bristled with righteous indignation, poised to seek justice for Prince Sheng, Gu Changge waved his hand with a hint of resignation. “Let it be. Jin Chan’s words absolve him of blame. After all, persuasion may indeed exceed one’s capabilities.”
With hatred simmering down, Gu Changge understood the wisdom of letting go. In the eyes of many, Prince Sheng’s demise was linked to Jin Chan. Though his words appeared to advocate reconciliation, they only fueled the flames. As a monk, Jin Chan’s behavior was puzzling. His indifference seemed incongruent with his compassionate teachings. Gu Changge resolved to have someone inquire about any lingering enmity between Jin Chan and Prince Sheng.
Today’s events were sure to strain relations between Emperor Mountain and Buddha Mountain—a prospect Gu Changge welcomed.
Although the geniuses of Heavenly Emperor Mountain heard these words, despite their lingering discontent, they dared not voice further objections. After all, it was Gu Changge who spoke. They relayed the events here back to Emperor Mountain, knowing such significant news would surely reach them. When Prince Sheng’s life lamp shattered, Emperor Mountain would take notice.
“Now that Young Master Changge is no longer in dire straits, this monk will take his leave,” Jin Chan announced calmly. He acknowledged Gu Changge’s nod with a slight smile before riding off on a Buddha’s cloud, seemingly indifferent to the opinions of the gathered geniuses.
“He is truly inscrutable,” Heavenly Phoenix Maiden mused silently, her emotions complex. With that, she bid farewell to Gu Changge, preparing to depart along with the others. The emergence of the inheritor of demonic arts was sure to stir up widespread commotion once again.
Gu Changge reassured his companions, “Don’t fret; this injury will heal soon and won’t hinder me.” With a smile directed at Gu Xian’er, Yin Mei, and the rest, he signaled their departure.
It was clear to Gu Changge that lingering here was unwise, especially considering the lingering threat of absolute heavenly extinction. He anticipated the thoughts of those around him and resolved to leave without delay.
Afterward, a group of geniuses transformed into divine lights, riding the mist, and departed one after another. Soon, news of the events here spread like wildfire, seeming to grow wings.
The moment the news broke, a tremendously powerful earthquake shook the Upper Realm. Not only the True Immortal Academy but also numerous supreme Dao Lineages and Immortal Great Sects were stunned, sending shockwaves throughout.
The fall of Prince Sheng and the severe injury to Gu Changge’s origin sent shivers down the spines of monks and creatures alike. The audacious schemes of the inheritor of demonic arts left everyone astounded and on edge, with a sense of impending danger looming.
Many cultivators viewed this trial as a direct provocation by the inheritor of demonic arts against the upper realm’s various factions. Consequently, numerous forces contemplated dispatching their most powerful members to pursue the trail of the demonic arts’ inheritor.
The level of vigilance surrounding this matter skyrocketed to unprecedented heights. True Immortal Academy received the news and dispatched elders to investigate. Although the trial was ongoing, it cast a dark shadow over the hearts of many geniuses.
Through this incident, Gu Changge’s renown once again soared to new heights, while Jin Chan bore the brunt of public scorn, though he remained unperturbed.
Returning to the ancient country of Xuanwu. Gu Changge naturally screened everyone, including Gu Xian’er and Yin Mei. He claimed to be in seclusion and healing, refusing to see any outsiders. His injury was expertly disguised, even fooling the most powerful beings, so Gu Changge did not need to conceal the truth.
During the incident, all geniuses witnessed what had occurred. Even if his true identity were to be exposed in the future, many would likely suspect a wrongful accusation against him. Regardless, anyone seeking to visit him was met with the excuse of seclusion for healing.
No one dared to attempt a direct breach unless they sought to trigger public outrage and risk their lives. Throughout this uneasy period, the rulers of major ancient countries trembled in fear, fearing entanglement in the turmoil.
However, Yin Mei discerned Gu Changge’s plan. She cooperated adeptly, leading Gu Xian’er and many of Gu Changge’s followers, leveraging the Wan Dao Business Alliance’s power to investigate Qing Xiaoyi’s whereabouts.
Gu Changge hadn’t forgotten about Zi Yang Heavenly King. Amidst the chaos, Zi Yang Heavenly King was also vulnerable and unable to protect himself. Though he hadn’t appeared yet, it was likely he had received relevant news.
Seizing the opportunity, Gu Changge quietly departed the ancient Xuanwu country and headed towards Jiang Chuchu’s location. Information obtained from her hinted at the origin of absolute heavenly extinction being taken away, prompting Gu Changge to arrange his layout accordingly.
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