I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 318

Chapter 318: Young master Changge is really worthy of admiration. The Clues of Zi Yang Heavenly King

“During this time, we’ve reached out to Purple Mansion regarding Zi Yang Heavenly King’s whereabouts, but even they are in the dark,” an elder explained. “We haven’t forgotten about Qing Xiaoyi’s situation, but with Zi Yang Heavenly King’s location unknown, locating Qing Xiaoyi becomes an even more daunting task. It’s like searching for a needle in a haystack.”

“It’s not a matter of negligence on our part; it’s simply beyond human capability,” another elder sighed involuntarily.

Despite the strength of the Supreme Being, finding someone deliberately concealing their whereabouts posed a formidable challenge, with little chance of success.

Efforts were made to trace Qing Xiaoyi’s location based on her brother’s bloodline, but since they were not biologically related, such attempts proved futile.

These words prompted a shift in the expressions of many of the present prodigies, sensing an underlying significance.

“Looks like things are about to get interesting.”

“Young Master Changge isn’t letting this slide.”

As the supreme sect behind Zi Yang Heavenly King, Purple Mansion’s supposed ignorance of his whereabouts raised eyebrows. After all, Zi Yang Heavenly King’s cultivation inheritance originated from Purple Mansion, giving them the means to track his movements with ease.

“It seems Purple Mansion is determined to shield Zi Yang Heavenly King.”

“As a supreme sect, they indeed possess the courage and strength to do so.”

Several geniuses exchanged knowing glances, understanding the implications in each other’s eyes.

Upon hearing the elder’s remarks, Qing Feng spoke with a bitter expression, “Purple Mansion couldn’t care less about someone like me. To them, my sister’s kidnapping means nothing. Even if she were to meet a tragic end, they wouldn’t bat an eye. They stand high and mighty, viewing Heavenly King Zi Yang as their sole beacon of hope for the future…”

“And my sister and I are nothing but insignificant ants, easily squashed.”

His words cast a somber mood over the gathered geniuses, evoking a sense of helplessness in the face of overwhelming power.

Clearly, despite his sister’s abduction, Qing Feng felt utterly powerless, lacking even the agency to resist.

A heavy silence fell upon them all.

The fact that Purple Mansion, backing Zi Yang Heavenly King, would rather alienate other Dao lineages to protect such a ruthless descendant wasn’t lost on anyone.

After all, Zi Yang Heavenly King’s purported ties to the inheritor of demonic arts were just that—a possibility that could be erased at any moment by Purple Mansion’s influence.

In such a scenario, who would dare oppose Purple Mansion?

“It appears that Purple Mansion is intentionally covering up Zi Yang Heavenly King’s tracks,” remarked Gu Changge thoughtfully. “Could it be that Purple Mansion is willing to defy worldly justice to protect him?”

After a moment of contemplation, Gu Changge let out a slight sigh. “But fret not. If I’ve made a promise, I won’t back down from it.”

“Perhaps this time, the inheritor of demonic arts has infiltrated the True Immortal Academy and shares a close connection with Zi Yang Heavenly King,” he continued, his words causing a stir among the listeners. They hadn’t anticipated that even while injured, Gu Changge would remain resolute and unwavering in his pursuit.

Many had assumed he’d be focused solely on recuperating, with no time to spare for such matters. But Gu Changge’s determination to uncover Zi Yang Heavenly King’s secrets left them stunned.

“Young Master Changge’s dedication to the girl he made a promise to is truly admirable,” sighed the gathered geniuses in unison.

“Thank you, Young Master Changge,” expressed Qing Feng, gratitude evident in his tone.

Gu Changge waved his hand dismissively.

Several elders exchanged glances, their expressions tinged with bitterness. They knew better than to interfere lightly. Crossing swords with Gu Changge could lead to dire consequences, potentially resulting in shattered bodies and shattered spirits.

After their meeting with Gu Changge concluded, everyone gradually took their leave, leaving only Gu Xian’er behind. She appeared hesitant to speak.

“Don’t mince words in front of me,” Gu Changge said calmly, holding a teacup in his hand as he took a sip.

Beside him stood Ji Qingxuan, attentive as ever.

“With your current condition, should Gu Changge involve himself in this matter?” Gu Xian’er furrowed her brow slightly, concerned about Gu Changge’s injury, though he seemed unconcerned.

“It’s just a matter of dealing with Zi Yang Heavenly King; what’s there to worry about?” Gu Changge dismissed her concern.

Despite his reassurance, Gu Xian’er’s expression remained troubled.

“Don’t be reckless,” she cautioned. “If I hadn’t agreed to Qing Feng’s request so casually, you wouldn’t be involved…”

She felt a pang of guilt and remorse.

Gu Changge chuckled suddenly, setting down his teacup. “Don’t get sentimental and think I’m doing this for you,” he said calmly. “It’s simply that Zi Yang Heavenly King is obstructing my path. Besides, I suspect he’s colluding with the inheritor of demonic arts. Perhaps I can locate the inheritor because of him. Gu Xian’er, if you don’t change your ways, one day I might just sell you off, and you’ll be counting the coins for me.”

“Well, I’m selfish like that. It’s your body, not mine.”

“Do you think I’ll care if it hurts?”

Gu Xian’er paid no mind to Gu Changge’s sarcasm, meeting his gaze with cold indifference. Her eyes were as icy as ever.

With that said, she turned away, her robes billowing as she left the hall, surrounded by an aura of aloofness and elegance.

“That girl is truly something,” remarked Gu Changge, shaking his head slightly. “She’s still adorable when she’s angry.”

Beside him, Ji Qingxuan swiftly refilled his teacup.

“Are Zi Yang Heavenly King’s juniors still in ancient Xuanwu country?” Gu Changge inquired casually, glancing at Ji Qingxuan.

“They’re still there, as far as I know. Is the young master planning something against them?” Ji Qingxuan asked, curious.

Purple Mansion was an ancient behemoth with a long-standing heritage.

Even among the numerous immortal sects and supreme sects, Purple Mansion held a prominent position, instilling fear in many elders. The ancient heritage of Purple Mansion surpassed that of even the Ji clan despite its decline. Even if the Ji clan hadn’t waned, it paled in comparison to the formidable legacy of Purple Mansion.

“Take action? No, how could I attack them when I exude elegance and ease?” Gu Changge remarked with a smile. “I simply wish to invite them over for a cup of tea.”

Ji Qingxuan was momentarily taken aback, then nodded. Though she didn’t possess her sister Su Qingge’s swiftness, she was astute and quick to grasp concepts without much explanation. She understood Gu Changge’s personality and habits quite well.

Ji Qingxuan sensed that Gu Changge had likely noticed her peculiarities long ago, even though she had never been able to hide them. His mannerisms often hinted at a playful interest, as if teasing a small pet.

For Ji Qingxuan, these moments were fraught with tension, causing her back to be drenched in cold sweat. Each time, her heart raced in anticipation, only to find that Gu Changge’s inquiries were merely casual and inconsequential.

It was as if she were constantly teetering on the edge of a precipice.

Ji Qingxuan suspected that Gu Changge orchestrated these situations deliberately.

Having been in Gu Changge’s company for some time, many of the rumors circulating in the outside world seemed far-fetched to her. Whether depicted as gentle and elegant or strong and arrogant, none of these descriptions seemed accurate.

Gu Changge was enigmatic, his true nature unpredictable. Only one word could aptly describe him: inscrutable.

“Convey my instructions: go to the residences of the Purple Mansion disciples and bring them all here,” Gu Changge instructed firmly. “If they refuse to come, feel free to exert necessary pressure and incapacitate those who resist.”

Gu Changge then turned to Ji Qingxuan and delegated the task to her.

Ji Qingxuan wasted no time and promptly descended to issue the orders.

As Gu Changge idly rubbed the white jade teacup, his gaze grew more intense as he delved into his thoughts.

In addition to monitoring the Dao Lineages, he also directed efforts towards locating the inheritors of demonic arts, dispatching powerful individuals to track their movements.

Meanwhile, another event sent shockwaves throughout the Upper Realm.

Two ancient beings from Heavenly Emperor Mountain and Buddha Mountain engaged in a battle, both teetering on the brink of enlightenment. Despite their near-enlightened states, their clash reverberated across the skies, tearing apart the heavens and earth for hundreds of millions of miles. Stars within a million-mile radius were reduced to mere ashes and dust.

The outcome of their confrontation remained shrouded in mystery, with conflicting reports on which entity emerged victorious.

This incident thrust Jin Chan into the spotlight, with many learning of his involvement from various sources. The conflict between Heavenly Emperor Mountain and Buddha Mountain stemmed from Jin Chan’s actions.

Despite being a monk, Jin Chan’s ruthless behavior led to Prince Sheng’s demise at the hands of the inheritor of demonic arts. Consequently, many began labeling him a demonic monk.

“Demon Monk? It appears that Emperor Mountain’s grievances have yet to be quelled, and they’re seeking an outlet for their frustrations,” mused Gu Changge.

Contemplating his next move, he considered leveraging Emperor Mountain’s hatred to his advantage.

“As long as Emperor Mountain’s animosity persists, Purple Mansion will undoubtedly be on high alert, providing the perfect opportunity for me to send them a signal,” he reasoned.

With a smirk, Gu Changge lifted a chess piece and placed it on the board. In an instant, the entire board transformed, its layout shifting dramatically, evoking an air of mystery and unpredictability.

“Checkmate!”

….

Meanwhile, in a towering mountain range not far from the Ancient Xuanwu Kingdom, rugged cliffs and ancient trees dominated the landscape, their branches reaching towards the sky, shrouded in dense fog. Amidst the mist, flickering lights danced, revealing intricate and mysterious runes etched into the surroundings.

These hidden patterns, along with concealed divine weapons scattered throughout the area, rendered it virtually undetectable, even to the keenest Spiritual Sense of a Supreme being sweeping the skies.

Nestled within this labyrinth of formations lay an abandoned ruin, its crumbling palace buildings, pagodas, and temples covered in moss exuding an aura of antiquity.

Seated cross-legged amidst this desolate landscape was a man in a purple robe, his black hair cascading around him. His features exuded an air of righteousness as threads of brilliance descended from above, absorbed by the lines between his eyebrows.

Surrounding him were numerous geniuses from both the human race and ancient races, emanating formidable auras as they guarded and patrolled the area with vigilance.

This man in the purple robe was Zi Yang, Heavenly King, endeavouring to refine the immortal aura in a bid to address the issue plaguing his immortal eye and seek a resolution.

Contrary to popular belief, Zi Yang Heavenly King had not ventured far from the Ancient Xuanwu Country.