I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 321

Chapter 321: The purpose of showing the intention, just the right stone for sharpening

“Misunderstand?”

Honestly, when Gu Changge said that, Liu Ziyan was completely stunned. She always thought Gu Changge had asked her to come here to inquire about Zi Yang Heavenly King, so she spoke those words without hesitation. From their recent interaction, it didn’t seem like Gu Changge had any plans involving her either. But now, Gu Changge suddenly claimed it was all a misunderstanding. Was it really?

“Young Master Changge, why did you say that? Weren’t you interested in learning about Zi Yang Heavenly King’s whereabouts?” Liu Zi Yan furrowed her brow, unable to resist asking.

Gu Changge lightly ran his fingers over the white jade teacup, his smile unchanged. “Not at all. I’ve actually known about Zi Yang Heavenly King for quite some time, and his whereabouts will come to light eventually. I simply invited the Holy Maiden Zi Yang here for tea.”

Liu Zi Yan remained suspicious.

Yet Gu Changge continued to smile, his voice gentle and refined. “You’re being too cautious.”

“Of course, you’re aware that Purple Mansion would go to great lengths to protect Zi Yang Heavenly King, even at the cost of offending numerous Dao forces by withholding his whereabouts.”

“And as the Holy Maiden of Purple Mansion, if Zi Yang Heavenly King were to face any trouble, he would undoubtedly reach out to you as soon as possible.”

Liu Zi Yan fell silent at his words. Gu Changge was right. The events in ancient Xuanwu country were taken very seriously by Purple Mansion. Even in such circumstances, Zi Yang remained under Purple Mansion’s protection, with a stance that they’d rather confront all other Dao forces than surrender Zi Yang Heavenly King’s location.

Although she was a cultivator in the sacred realm and her father held the position of patriarch at Purple Mansion, she still didn’t carry as much weight as Zi Yang Heavenly King.

“I believe that the Holy Maiden Zi Yang is quite clever; she should understand the implications of digging one’s own grave within Purple Mansion,” remarked Gu Changge as he took a sip of tea, his eyes narrowing before he smiled once more.

“Dig my own grave?” Liu Zi Yan repeated those four words to herself, momentarily stunned.

“Yes, indeed, it’s like digging one’s own grave,” she concluded.

In her view, if Zi Yang Heavenly King truly had ties to the inheritor of demonic arts and Purple Mansion continued to shield him, it would undoubtedly provoke public outrage. Even Emperor Mountain had distanced itself from him upon discovering that Prince Ying was the true inheritor of demonic arts, claiming to have expelled him from their ranks to avoid any entanglements.

Such attention underscored the severity of the situation. The threat wasn’t just idle chatter; the entire world considered Zi Yang Heavenly King an adversary.

If Purple Mansion persisted in its course of action, it risked alienating itself globally. Emperor Mountain simmered with frustration, seeking a legitimate pretext for retaliation, especially considering the hidden adversaries lurking nearby.

Before, she had felt Purple Mansion’s approach was misguided, but now, with Gu Changge’s persuasion, she increasingly sensed that something was awry. If Purple Mansion persisted in this manner, it might be headed down a path of destruction.

“I understand what you’re saying, Young Master Changge, but as a holy maiden within the vast confines of Purple Mansion, the influence of individual voices is quite limited. Even if the pros and cons are laid out, it may not sway matters much,” Liu Zi Yan sighed, feeling somewhat helpless. She turned her gaze towards Gu Changge, her eyes shining brightly. “I would appreciate some guidance from you, Young Master Changge.”

Despite having met Zi Yang Heavenly King numerous times and receiving his guidance, her faith in his innocence regarding the inheritor of demonic arts began to falter with Gu Changge’s words.

Liu Zi Yan was exceptionally beautiful, with cascading black hair that shimmered in the light and a waist akin to a willow’s. Even beneath her veil, her complexion appeared as smooth and flawless as carved jade.

As she stared unwaveringly at Gu Changge, her beauty seemed to intensify. Most ordinary young geniuses would have found it difficult to withstand such scrutiny, but Gu Changge remained composed, his gaze steady. “I hesitate to offer advice. Miss Zi Yang is contemplating the future of Purple Mansion, while I consider the welfare of the inheritor of demonic arts. In truth, our interests are not necessarily in conflict.”

Liu Zi Yan nodded. “Young Master Changge’s concern for the world is admirable, and Zi Yan respects it.”

“The tea is growing cold,” Gu Changge remarked, gesturing to the teacup in front of her.

Liu Zi Yan shook her head. “There’s no need to rush, Young Master Changge. Please, don’t spoil my appetite just yet.”

She understood that there was enmity between Gu Changge and Zi Yang Heavenly King. Regardless of the cause, Gu Changge wouldn’t easily let him off the hook. It was evident that Gu Changge possessed some means to compel Zi Yang Heavenly King to reveal himself. Yet, he chose not to disclose it, instead inviting her for tea and subtly alerting her to the danger of the situation, expressing concern for her well-being.

This left Liu Zi Yan feeling irritated for a while, suspecting that Gu Changge had orchestrated this deliberately. However, as a holy maiden, she naturally maintained her composure and didn’t voice her thoughts. Nevertheless, Gu Changge showed no inclination to explain, merely smiling and saying, “Alright, the tea’s been had. For the foreseeable future, I’d like the Holy Maiden Zi Yang to remain here. Naturally, I’ll inform the outside world that you’re under my ‘house arrest.'”

“House arrest?” Liu Zi Yan shot him a quizzical glance. Initially, upon arriving, she had entertained the notion of being confined by Gu Changge. But his subsequent hospitality and politeness during their tea session had left her feeling unsettled and perplexed. And now, Gu Changge intended to announce her supposed confinement? What was his motive? Was he aiming to make a spectacle for Purple Mansion and the outside world? Liu Zi Yan couldn’t fathom it.

“Young Master Changge, could you enlighten me as to the reason?” she inquired, puzzled.

“Is the reason pertinent? Or perhaps the Holy Maiden Zi Yan truly objects to the notion of being confined by me?” Gu Changge smiled, meeting her gaze.

Liu Zi Yan fell silent, finding Gu Changge’s actions and intentions utterly unpredictable. It left her feeling powerless. She recognized that Gu Changge wasn’t a virtuous individual, yet she couldn’t bring herself to harbor animosity toward him. His offer to aid her in locating Zi Yang Heavenly King only added to her vexation.

However, she couldn’t deny the truth in Gu Changge’s words; their positions were, in fact, aligned.

After observing Liu Zi Yan’s silence, Gu Changge refrained from further discussion and arranged for someone to escort her back. His objective was nearly accomplished; the current patriarch of Purple Mansion held a deep affection for his daughter, Liu Zi Yan. Despite Purple Mansion’s formidable strength and its resolve to safeguard Zi Yang Heavenly King, this was primarily due to the suppression of dissenting voices.

Liu Zi Yan wasn’t naive; she understood what would be advantageous for Purple Mansion. At this juncture, she would undoubtedly seek a means to communicate with the patriarch of Purple Mansion, presenting her perspectives along with various pros and cons. The patriarch knew that his daughter might implicate Gu Changge to some extent and would earnestly consider Liu Zi Yan’s counsel.

Any hint of division within Purple Mansion would attract external forces like sharks smelling blood, causing them to swarm in instantly. This served as one of Gu Changge’s objectives. If Zi Yang Heavenly King lost the support of Purple Mansion, it would be a simple matter for Gu Changge to eliminate him with just a few words.

Alternatively, if Purple Mansion persisted in protecting Zi Yang Heavenly King, Gu Changge didn’t mind revealing his hidden assets—not the Ancient Immortal Gu family or other forces behind him, but the various methods he had left behind in the Ancient Immortal Continent.

The upper realms had remained quiet for far too long. Gu Changge was well aware that Yue Mingkong was clandestinely training immortal soldiers, a method derived from him, either through teachings in her past life or directly from him. He did not doubt that if he requested it, Yue Mingkong would hand over control of these Immortal Guards to him.

Gu Changge anticipated using Purple Mansion as a test of this power’s strength, and the effect of this trial was just right. After evolving for so long, he also intended to display his prowess to the upper realms.

The imminent emergence of the Demon Burying Abyss, the appearance of the Heavenly Extinction Divine Court, the manifestation of the Demon World Realm, and the Immortal Palace’s covert possession of the seven heavenly palms—all these signs suggested that the situation in the higher realms would only grow more intricate.

Gu Changge harbored grander ambitions. Despite his current formidable momentum, he scarcely found a rival among the younger generation. However, to immortal sects and esteemed Daoists, he remained a mere junior unworthy of attention. Similar to the reception received by the inheritor of demonic arts in the past—despite the uproar and tragic deaths of many geniuses, numerous Dao traditions and major sects remained indifferent. It wasn’t until Prince Sheng of Emperor Mountain was brutally murdered, and even Gu Changge was purportedly “severely injured,” that many Dao forces took notice. The once disregarded inheritor of demonic arts had now risen to such prominence.

This development induced panic among many, yet the situation wasn’t tumultuous enough. Then, a piece of news from ancient Xuanwu country sparked a massive sensation, shocking all geniuses and monks. The area where all Purple Mansion disciples resided now lay empty and eerily quiet. When a curious cultivator investigated, they discovered that not long ago, under the leadership of terrifying geniuses—followers of Gu Changge—everyone from Purple Mansion, including the Holy Maiden, had been forcibly taken away.

The news spread rapidly, propagated by Gu Changge’s followers, inciting uproar. “What? The Holy Maiden of Purple Mansion was taken away by Young Master Changge and placed under house arrest. Is Gu Changge exploiting this opportunity to provoke Purple Mansion?” Some geniuses widened their eyes in disbelief, finding the notion incredulous and audacious.

However, others affirmed the authenticity of the claim. “It’s absolutely true. Aside from the Holy Maiden, all Purple Mansion disciples were taken away. I witnessed it firsthand at the palace gates…” A cultivator swore, recounting the scene and recalling the dismay on the Holy Maiden’s face as she was taken away.

“Indeed, it appears that Young Master Changge went as far as placing the Holy Maiden of Purple Mansion under house arrest in his quest to uncover traces of Zi Yang Heavenly King,” remarked someone in stunned disbelief. The news sent shockwaves through the gathered crowd, for the Holy Maiden symbolized the very essence of Purple Mansion.

The direct abduction of the Holy Maiden by Gu Changge’s followers in broad daylight was a grievous insult to Purple Mansion, akin to a slap to its dignity. Many realized that besides Gu Changge, few possessed the audacity to execute such a brave act.

Yet, amidst the astonishment, some speculated that Purple Mansion might disregard the provocation, given their unwavering commitment to protecting Zi Yang Heavenly King. After all, with the Holy Maiden merely placed under house arrest, what harm could befall her? Unless Gu Changge truly intended to harm her, in which case, what distinguished him from the purported inheritor of demonic arts?

As the widely acknowledged leader of the younger generation, it was inconceivable for Gu Changge not to cherish such a prestigious asset. The subsequent events confirmed the suspicions of many cultivators.

To the astonishment of many, Purple Mansion displayed an utterly shameless attitude toward the house arrest of their Holy Maiden. Some elders even publicly voiced their desire for Gu Changge to treat the Holy Maiden with hospitality. This brazen lack of concern ignited outrage.

Despite the widespread shock and disbelief, Purple Mansion refrained from taking any substantive action. This matter primarily concerned the younger generation, and the intervention of the older generation could potentially lead to unforeseeable and dire consequences.

With no one among the younger generation capable of opposing Gu Changge, they resorted to thickening their skin and becoming more shameless than ever. They remained cautious, aware that their words held little weight, yet by voicing their support, they unequivocally pledged allegiance to protect Zi Yang Heavenly King.

Liu Zi Yan now found herself in Gu Changge’s custody, yet the younger generation displayed indifference toward Purple Mansion’s plight. Gu Changge’s response to Purple Mansion’s inquiry was brief: he promised to take good care of the Holy Maiden. However, he left a compelling insinuation—whether the Holy Maiden would return to the mountain gate and astonish the patriarch of Purple Mansion by making him a grandfather remained uncertain.

This provocative statement sent shockwaves through the crowd, leaving many dumbfounded. Gu Changge’s tit-for-tat response, spurred by Purple Mansion’s apparent disregard for him, caught many off guard. Despite their knowledge of Zi Yang Heavenly King’s kidnapping of Qing Xiaoyi, Purple Mansion still sought to shield him. In response, Gu Changge placed their Holy Maiden under house arrest, intending to surprise the patriarch of Purple Mansion.

This turn of events left many geniuses feeling ashamed; they dared not utter such bold statements. “Is this Gu Changge’s strategy? Zi Yang Heavenly King remains at large, his whereabouts unknown,” pondered one observer. “Given Purple Mansion’s indifference, it’s unlikely they’ll take action. With his Hongmeng Dao bone, Zi Yang is a rare talent. Despite his defeat by Gu Changge, if he rises again, his cultivation will surely skyrocket,” another mused. “Purple Mansion harbors grand ambitions, and Zi Yang Heavenly King is their beacon of hope…”

Meanwhile, in the Six-Crowned Prince’s mansion, he stood with hands clasped behind his back, gazing toward Gu Changge’s vicinity, contemplating the situation before shaking his head. “Is this what Brother Changge intended?”

In another mansion, Ying Yu, tall and with silver hair cascading like a waterfall, held a letter in hand, her expression betraying surprise. It was a missive from Gu Changge. Quickly scanning its contents, she furrowed her brow.

Ying Yu’s anticipation proved well-founded, as Gu Changge acquired numerous pieces of information and leads regarding Zi Yang Heavenly King.

“Heavenly King Zi Yang collaborated with the inheritor of demonic arts to assassinate Prince Sheng,” one report stated. “With Brother Changge taking the initiative, it saved me a lot of trouble.”

After reading the reports, Ying Yu’s hands clenched tightly, a chill coursing through her. With both Prince Ying and Prince Shen absent, she naturally assumed the role of Emperor Mountain’s foremost descendant, burdened with handling many pressing matters.

“Purple Mansion’s unwavering support for Zi Yang Heavenly King, despite our opposition, is truly infuriating. They need to be taught a lesson.”

During this period, Ying Yu grappled with feelings of frustration and anger, while Emperor Mountain became the subject of ridicule. As the designated successor, she bore the brunt of mockery and scrutiny.

Subsequently, Ying Yu forwarded the intelligence to the mountain gate and inquired about the plans of Emperor Mountain’s ancient dignitaries. Additionally, she intended to rally Emperor Ying’s remaining followers and march upon Purple Mansion to seek justice.

The once tranquil Ancient Xuanwu Kingdom now roiled with unrest, as cultivators from all corners converged, their powerful auras shaking the region. Even the high-ranking officials of the kingdom retreated to their territory, tails tucked in submission.

Meanwhile, in the mountains outside the Ancient Xuanwu country, Gu Xian’er’s figure emerged. Clad in billowing attire, she exuded a cold, aloof demeanor, discouraging any approach. Perched on her shoulder, a large red bird drooped its wings, its eyes keenly scanning the surroundings.

“Dahong, you must search diligently; this matter is of utmost importance to me,” Gu Xian’er instructed the bird earnestly. Though she didn’t know where Zi Yang Tianjun was hiding, she was certain it wasn’t far from the Ancient Xuanwu country. With meticulous searching, she believed she could uncover his whereabouts.

Since Zi Yang Heavenly King couldn’t stray too far, the safest place for him was often considered the most dangerous. Unless he altered his appearance significantly, he wouldn’t dare linger in True Immortal Academy. Given his connection to Qing Xiaoyi’s abduction, locating Zi Yang could alleviate Gu Changge’s current predicament.

With this objective in mind, Gu Xian’er summoned the big red bird, whose innate talent for detection made it invaluable in locating hidden individuals, treasures, and opportunities.

“Quack…”

The bird suddenly screeched, its eyes gleaming with excitement.

“Have you found something?” Gu Xian’er inquired, following its gaze to the cliffs of the mountain peaks. However, her expression stiffened as she beheld a dazzling blue-and-red star-like plant exuding magnificent brilliance. “I asked you to find someone, not to hunt for treasure,” she scolded the bird resentfully, dismayed by its apparent lack of reliability.

In response, the bird cast her a disdainful look, unimpressed by her criticism.

“I don’t want it. No one can find it. I don’t want any precious divine grass…” Gu Xian’er shook her head with a tinge of sadness. “This is… the Starfire plant…”

Yet, upon closer inspection, her surprise grew, and her eyes sparkled with excitement. Beneath the plant lay a small stone emitting colorful rays of light.

Gu Xian’er moved swiftly, eager to retrieve it but also feeling a pang of melancholy. She couldn’t help but marvel at her luck—not only had she failed to find what she sought, but she had also overlooked the Starfire plant for so long.

Unbeknownst to Gu Xian’er, a man of medium stature and unremarkable appearance watched her from behind an ancient tree in the distance. His face bore a complex expression as she departed, his features betraying no movement. It was none other than senior brother Qin Wuya, who returned from the Nine Heavens and Gu Xian’er’s senior brother in her past life.