I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 341

Chapter 341: Junior Brother, I am coming to save you; how could he not expect it?

“Are you suggesting that I aid Purple Mansion? Is this some sort of joke, or are you implying that you lack intelligence?” This remark came just as the ominous immortal events unfolded outside the confines of Purple Mansion.

Meanwhile, within the restricted area, Reincarnation Lake appeared remarkably serene. Amidst the swirling chaos, a sense of tranquility prevailed.

Within the depths of the turbulent mist, a divine mountain rose tall and majestic, surrounded by flourishing ancient trees reminiscent of an era preceding the dawn of creation. Colorful divine trees adorned the cliff’s edge, their roots delving deep and their essence embodying various laws of nature. They exuded an aura akin to ancient monsters, instilling a profound sense of awe in any who beheld them.

Between the mountain peaks, ethereal clouds billowed forth, casting a mysterious reflection of the heavens above. This realm seemed like an isolated sanctuary where splendid brilliance often erupted from its depths.

Throughout the surroundings, the air carried the fragrance of blossoms, lush greenery adorned the landscape, and divine herbs thrived upon the cliffs. In the distance, auspicious beasts roared while divine birds soared, creating a tranquil ambiance reminiscent of a pristine paradise beyond worldly realms.

It was unfathomable that the Reincarnation Lake, located within the enigmatic confines of the upper realm, could possess such serenity.

A ripple of disdain permeated the void, echoing the sentiments of the speaker.

Meanwhile, at the base of a golden mountain cloaked in radiant beams, Qin Wuya stood composed, his expression stoic and unwavering. Such a response did not catch him off guard in the slightest.

In the entire Upper Realm, how many factions dared to offer assistance to Purple Mansion? Practically none. Yet, despite the odds, Qin Wuya remained determined to attempt aid, unwilling to forgo the opportunity to rescue Zi Yang Heavenly King.

He had managed to hasten to Reincarnation Lake due to his previous visit when he traded for its waters. A favor owed by an ancient entity from Nine Heavens granted him access; otherwise, he wouldn’t even be deemed worthy of entry into the lake.

“I still possess much of what I provided you with last time,” Qin Wuya reiterated upon hearing the rejection. Having resided in Nine Heavens for centuries, he had amassed a considerable wealth of valuable artifacts. Even such a venerable being might find his offerings tempting.

“No,” the ancient guardian of Reincarnation Lake curtly rebuffed, followed by a thinly veiled mockery. “Return. Should you have incurred the ire of the Ancient Immortal Gu family, you’ll face dire consequences.”

“In addition to scripture from Nine Heavens, I possess knowledge of the lake’s secrets. Simply conceal your aura and rescue my junior brother. Your presence will remain undetected,” Qin Wuya proposed, shifting the focus to Purple Mansion’s imminent conflict. “Gu Changge will attribute the intervention to Purple Mansion, sparing you suspicion.”

In an attempt to sway the ancient guardian, Qin Wuya laid down even more enticing offers, including a coveted immortal scripture that would incite fervent desire among cultivators.

“You needn’t aid Purple Mansion, only rescue my junior brother. How does that sound?” he implored, further lowering his demands.

“Why do you carry so many valuable items? Aren’t you afraid I might kill you and claim them for myself?” The ancient entity seemed to genuinely consider the proposition, displaying a hint of intrigue.

Despite his previous oath to refrain from burning bridges, Qin Wuya found himself driven by greed this time around. While he possessed a lower cultivation base in the eyes of others, his abundance of treasures, including the immortal scriptures of Nine Heavens, elicited astonishment.

In his estimation, what risks could arise? It boiled down to perception and comprehension of the Dao from others’ perspectives. With access to immortal scriptures, he might even ascend further and attain immortality.

Qin Wuya remained composed upon hearing this as if anticipating such a response. “Trust me, I assure you that your trust won’t be misplaced,” he affirmed.

“Very well. I’ll place my trust in you once more. Should this come to light to the Ancient Immortal Gu family, I’ll promptly disclose your involvement,” the ancient entity agreed readily this time, harboring no doubts about Qin Wuya’s assurances.

Boom!

Within the sacred mountain, runes flickered as a vague and ominous figure, bathed in golden light, floated on the Dao. With a single step, the figure vanished into thin air. Witnessing this, Qin Wuya finally let out a sigh of relief, a faint smile gracing his lips.

“Brother, hang on. I’m coming to rescue you!”

Meanwhile, in the capital of the Ancient Vermillion Bird Kingdom, within the palace, the lord secluded himself from all but the elderly eunuch who stood closest to him. The halls remained deserted.

His expression was contorted with extreme displeasure, a shade of lividness tainting his expression. Even his cherished cup of tea lay shattered at his feet.

“This Gu Changge is simply pushing the boundaries of deception. He knows full well he’s a menace, yet he dares to set foot in my Ancient Vermillion Bird Kingdom. Is he aiming to bring us harm?” His voice dripped with frustration.

“And when the powerhouses of Purple Mansion arrive, won’t their battle here spell ruin for my kingdom?” he continued, his teeth clenched, fists tight, his face flushed with anger.

Little did he anticipate that after Gu Changge departed from the Ancient Xuanwu Country, he not only bypassed Purple Mansion’s territory for the anticipated conflict but also detained everyone associated with Heavenly King Zi Yang in the Ancient Vermillion Bird Kingdom.

The revelation left the Vermillion Bird King seething with rage, bitterness pooling within him.

He desired to refuse the proposition but dared not offend Gu Changge openly. Thus, he found himself unable to decline altogether.

“My lord, please, let us remain calm. We ought to consult with the third prince. With the army looming and descending upon the Ancient Vermillion Bird Kingdom, should Young Master Changge insist on using this land as a battleground, how could we possibly oppose it…” The elderly eunuch, devoid of a white beard, interjected hastily, his expression mirroring his nervousness, worry, and profound unease as if sensing an impending disaster.

Within the borders of the Ancient Vermillion Bird Kingdom, imposing ancient warships hovered ominously in the sky, seemingly materializing out of thin air, forming a colossal square-like continent that obscured the sun. Draped in dense, majestic clouds of chaotic mist, they exuded an overwhelming pressure.

Upon these warships, numerous figures could be discerned, densely packed like sardines, numbering in the millions. Their appearance starkly differed from that of humans, with shimmering scales, vast divine wings blotting out the sky, and a kaleidoscope of hues indicating various immortal ancient races: the Black Heavenly Eagle Clan, the Divine Crocodile Clan, the Ancient Snake Clan, the Immortal Ancient Dragon Clan, each exuding aggression and murderous intent.

This formidable display threatened to obliterate the Ancient Vermillion Bird Kingdom in an instant, instilling fear in many cultivators. Yet, allowing Gu Changge to depart was not an option. Moreover, the imprisonment of Zi Yang Heavenly King posed a significant difficulty. If Purple Mansion attempted a rescue en route, how would they contend with it?

Their current priority lay in securing a location to detain Zi Yang Heavenly King. Should Purple Mansion initiate a rescue, they could easily handle the situation. To many cultivators, Gu Changge’s actions seemed logical and justifiable. However, his choice of the Ancient Vermillion Bird Kingdom as the site for imprisoning Zi Yang Heavenly King left many feeling uneasy, sensing impending turmoil.

Given the looming disaster, many cultivators opted to flee their hometowns and swiftly evacuate the Ancient Vermillion Bird Country.

“We can only wait until Hao’er returns. If we engage in war here, what hope does our Ancient Vermillion Bird Kingdom have?” remarked the Vermillion Bird King, echoing the sentiments of the elderly eunuch.

“Indeed, my lord. Otherwise, we’ll simply be awaiting the kingdom’s demise,” the old eunuch concurred solemnly.

As the Vermillion Bird King and the old eunuch deliberated, spatial fluctuations rippled across the sky outside the palace. Chu Hao and Bai Yang emerged from the spatial anomalies, hastening into the hall.

Despite the considerable distance between the Ancient Xuanwu Country and the Ancient Vermillion Bird Country, Bai Yang’s extraordinary abilities swiftly facilitated their return via a spatial channel.

“Ho’er, you’re finally back!”

“Greetings, Ancestor Yang!” The Vermillion Bird King greeted Chu Hao joyfully, extending his respect to Bai Yang simultaneously.

Bai Yang waved off the formalities, signaling there was no need.

“Father, I’m aware of the situation. Purple Mansion has incurred the wrath of numerous Dao forces, escalating tensions to an irreparable extent. They will undoubtedly attempt to rescue Zi Yang Heavenly King,” Chu Hao declared gravely. The Vermillion Bird King had forewarned him via communication talisman prior to his arrival.

Gu Changge had imprisoned members of Purple Mansion, including Zi Yang Heavenly King, within the Ancient Vermillion Bird Country. Furthermore, he had mustered a massive army of one million within the kingdom’s territory.

The immense momentum loomed large, shrouding the sky and sun, instilling countless cultivators with fear and trembling.

“So, what are your thoughts on this matter, Hao’er? Gu Changge seems determined to bring disaster upon our kingdom, to obliterate my Ancient Vermillion Bird Country!” The lord of the Vermillion Bird Kingdom’s complexion paled, his voice quivering with fear and indecision. He, a mere provincial lord, harbored deep-seated anger and dissatisfaction toward Gu Changge, though he had never dared to express it openly. Yet, Gu Changge’s current actions amounted to nothing short of destruction for the Ancient Vermillion Bird Kingdom.

The scene unfolding resembled a clash between dragons, where even the ants below risked annihilation by the waves of turmoil. The situation felt more precarious than treading on the edge of an abyss.

“Fear not, Father. On my journey back, I’ve devised a plan,” Chu Hao reassured, his tone resolute. “Even if we dare not, we must refuse Gu Changge’s demands. Immortals may wage war, but mortals suffer. He means to target us. Are we to cower in fear and comply?”

“I’ve already discussed this with my uncle. Regardless of the consequences, I will refuse this time. I cannot allow Heavenly King Zi Yang to be imprisoned within our kingdom,” Chu Hao asserted firmly, outlining his intentions.

The Lord of the Vermillion Bird Kingdom listened with a conflicted expression. He understood the repercussions of defying Gu Changge. Even if the Ancient Vermillion Bird Kingdom survived, the aftermath would be dire. And he was well acquainted with Gu Changge’s character — outwardly sophisticated and refined, yet inwardly aloof and authoritarian.

“Very well, then. We shall proceed as you suggest, Hao’er,” the Lord of the Vermillion Bird Kingdom agreed, his countenance weighed down by grave concern.

At that moment, a figure suddenly appeared outside the main hall, gracefully stepping forward with a look of surprise on her face. Observing this, the guards stationed outside dared not impede her progress.

“Wan’er.”

“Miss Wan.”

Both Chu Hao and the Vermillion Bird King glanced up. Their expressions varied.

Despite Chu Hao’s cultivation, he had sensed Tang Wan’s arrival moments earlier but chose not to rise and greet her, allowing her to overhear their conversation. Part of him sought to gauge her stance toward Gu Changge.

“Brother Hao.”

The newcomer was Tang Wan, who had returned to the Ancient Vermillion Bird Country with matters to discuss. However, she had not anticipated stumbling upon their deliberations upon her arrival, casting a shadow over her heart.

“I overheard your discussion about how to handle Gu Changge. In my opinion, this matter warrants careful consideration. Recklessness, even from the Ancient Vermillion Bird Country or the Supreme Dao Cave behind you, could prove disastrous. Engaging in conflict with Gu Changge, as Purple Mansion is currently experiencing, serves as a cautionary tale…” Tang Wan’s gaze bore into Chu Hao, her words direct and unyielding.

Her emotions swirled within her — helplessness, hatred, resentment, perhaps all intertwined. Why had matters escalated to this point? Did Chu Hao truly understand the peril he faced?

From Gu Changge’s words, it was evident he held little regard for Chu Hao at present. If Chu Hao sought vengeance, he ought to focus on diligent cultivation to bolster his strength rather than needlessly provoking Gu Changge and risking further enmity. In Tang Wan’s eyes, such actions were unwise.

“Wan’er, are you attempting to dissuade me from harboring my grudge once more?” Chu Hao’s brow furrowed slightly, a tinge of dissatisfaction creeping into his tone. Tang Wan’s current stance only exacerbated the prickling thorn lodged in his heart.

Especially when he recalled her clandestine meeting with Gu Changge, using family matters as a pretext, Chu Hao’s heart ached. Even if she harbored resentment, she should have been forthright instead of deceiving him.

Tang Wan’s words stirred a sense of discomfort in Bai Yang, who had remained silent. Recent events had soured his impression of her, yet out of consideration for Chu Hao, he held his tongue. However, Tang Wan’s insinuation that she was too good to confront Gu Changge grated on him, prompting a surge of dissatisfaction. He had long felt overlooked and undervalued, his low-key demeanor misconstrued as weakness.

“Brother Hao, I’m not urging you to abandon your grudge. I simply implore you to consider the consequences before engaging in actions beyond your capability and resolve…” Tang Wan’s expression shifted, and sensing Chu Hao’s misunderstanding, she hastened to clarify. “Your focus should be on bolstering your strength. If Gu Changge comes after you, you’ll stand a better chance of survival.”

Her words resonated with genuine concern, reflecting her straightforward nature. She believed Chu Hao would recognize her goodwill.

“Enough, Wan’er. I don’t want to hear such counsel from you again,” Chu Hao interjected, pain flickering across his features as he waved off her words. “I’ve noticed a change in you compared to before. While I appreciate your concern, can you refrain from intervening this time? Following your advice would spell destruction for the Ancient Vermillion Bird Kingdom.”

Tang Wan hesitated, at a loss for words. Soon, a wave of sadness washed over her, prompting her to turn and depart without a word.

“Wan’er…” Chu Hao’s heart twinged with a sense of loss, yet he remained pragmatic, understanding that he couldn’t afford to dwell on this matter at present.

With Zi Yang, Heavenly King, confined in the Ancient Vermillion Bird Country for another day, the kingdom faced another day of peril. Chu Hao swiftly composed himself, intending to confront Gu Changge and demand Zi Yang Heavenly King’s release.

“Hao’er, Uncle Shi will accompany you,” Bai Yang declared his expression grave, his resentment toward Gu Changge palpable. He perceived this showdown as a declaration of opposition against Gu Changge, which could have unimaginable consequences for the entire Ancient Vermillion Bird Country.

Meanwhile, within the Ancient Vermillion Bird Country, Gu Changge, anticipating the arrival of Zi Yang Heavenly King’s rescuer, received the system prompt. To him, the Luck and Destiny Points were inconsequential. What truly interested him was the impact on Chu Hao. He anticipated Qin Wuya’s involvement in the ensuing drama.

“It appears there’s still tension between Tang Wan and Chu Hao. Emotions are such fragile and useless things,” he mused, a wry smile tugging at his lips as he anticipated Chu Hao’s next move.

Chu Hao’s plan was indeed clever, but Gu Changge was not naive enough to be caught off guard.