I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 348

Chapter 348: A hypocritical person with a human face and a beast heart, for leeks to thrive

There were two seats in the hall.

At the top, Gu Changge was clad in a long white coat, with hair as clear as crystal and radiating sparkle. His eyes exuded warmth and tranquility as he held a white jade wine glass, bringing it to his lips with an effortless grace.

With a subtle smile playing on his lips, he engaged in conversation with Xiao Ruoyin.

On the other hand, Xiao Ruoyin possessed delicate and captivating facial features, with a hint of rosy complexion.

Through her numerous discussions with Gu Changge, she delved deeper into the vastness and enigma of the world, becoming increasingly entranced.

“The demeanor of your admirer seems off. Would you like to inquire about what transpired?” Gu Changge glanced at Jiang Chen and the others below, his smile faint yet discernible.

Upon hearing this, Xiao Ruoyin cast another glance below, her brows furrowing involuntarily.

Observing Jiang Chen’s expression, which bore a mixture of shock and disbelief as he gazed up at her position, their eyes met in the air. Jiang Chen’s intense stare left her feeling uneasy, prompting her to avoid any misunderstanding on Gu Changge’s part.

While she harbored only gratitude towards Gu Changge at present, she was wary of any implications that might arise regarding her and Jiang Chen.

Yet, Jiang Chen’s unyielding gaze, devoid of deference, provoked a sense of displeasure in Xiao Ruoyin.

“Jiang Chen…” She couldn’t help but address him, a hint of frustration tainting her tone.

At that moment, Jiang Chen appeared visibly agitated and reacted. Ignoring Xiao Ruoyin’s glare, he hastily averted his gaze and resumed drinking, his demeanor sulky.

Witnessing this, Niu Tian and the others could only sigh inwardly, though they saw no fault in Xiao Ruoyin’s actions. Without her intervention, they might still be languishing in the dungeon, their fates uncertain.

In their view, Jiang Chen’s behavior was understandable.

“Ah Chen, take it easy…” Niu Tian couldn’t help but advise. “Xiao Ruoyin and us, we’re no longer part of the same world. You need to let go.”

“In this vast world, where is there not a variety of options? Look at the multitude of gods and immortals. Why fixate on guarding Xiao Ruoyin?”

He also discerned that Young Master Gu harbored no malicious intent towards Xiao Ruoyin.

It was Xiao Ruoyin who harbored intentions towards others, hence her title had also changed. Previously, she would jestingly refer to herself as Goddess Xiao.

Although Xiao Ruoyin had always been reserved, she had never treated Jiang Chen with the coldness she displayed today, simply disregarding their past relationship.

What did this signify? The seemingly unattainable goddess in their eyes was nothing more than ordinary in the eyes of others.

“I understand, Niu Tian, no need to persuade me.” Jiang Chen’s tone indicated a newfound calmness as he nodded, his attention no longer on the banquet before him.

It seemed as though he had accepted everything with equanimity.

But only Jiang Chen himself knew that he was clenching his fists tightly, his nails digging into his palms, turning them a dark shade of red.

He felt unwilling and incensed, yet, more importantly, he chose to comprehend.

From the insights gleaned aboard the immortal boat, he already grasped the general reason behind the situation.

“I knew that guy Gu wouldn’t have any good intentions. Letting us out, hosting us, aiding Ruoyin in her cultivation…”

“Heh, there’s no such thing as a genuinely good person in this world. It’s all just a facade masking a heart of darkness.”

Jiang Chen scoffed inwardly, though outwardly he remained composed.

He pondered on how to navigate the situation. As a transmigrator, now in possession of the immortal boat of good fortune, with careful planning, how could he succumb so easily?

“Jiang Chen, we must rescue the master. She hasn’t regained her memories yet, and she’s very vulnerable.”

“She’s our original master, the High Priestess of Destiny. We can’t abandon her.”

The voice of the tool spirit echoed in his mind, trembling with fear.

Once brimming with arrogance, it now exuded shock, anxiety, and fear, as if it had glimpsed some horror emanating from Gu Changge.

“That man is highly dangerous. Though I don’t know his identity, the sense of dread has seeped into my very soul, indelible. The master is in grave peril around him, and I fear she may fall victim to his sinister intentions at any moment.”

It continued to chatter and explain, consumed by extreme worry.

But Jiang Chen cut it off, his gaze steady. “I understand. Now, just tell me: what’s your role, and how can you assist me? Ruoyin has been deceived by that young master Gu, kept in the dark by him. No one knows but me, and now I’m the only one who can save her.”

Upon hearing this, the artifact spirit of the immortal boat responded, “I’m still awakening, with limited areas where I can offer assistance. However, my primary function lies in observing destiny, fortune, deciphering patterns, and more. I can even bestow upon you the Holy Body of Creation…”

“The Holy Body of Creation? What kind of constitution is that? It sounds formidable,” Jiang Chen inquired. “And what’s the significance of observing destiny, fortune, and deciphering patterns?”

“The power of the Holy Body of Creation speaks for itself. Just know that it ranks among the ten great holy bodies in the world. Mastery over creation is prodigious,” the Good Fortune Immortal Boat Spirit elucidated, its tone tinged with its former arrogance.

“It means that once we leave this place and venture into the outside world, with my abilities, you’ll have access to opportunities beyond the reach of ordinary individuals. I can discern treasures hidden from sight, decode Origin Stones, decipher the lay of the land, and dismantle formations…”

Jiang Chen listened intently, a glimmer of hope burgeoning within him, though to onlookers, he appeared to be drowning his sorrows in drink.

“Is the golden opportunity activated? It seems the timing is right.”

Immediately, Gu Changge took a sip from his wine glass, his attention fixed on Jiang Chen, a faint smile gracing his lips.

In his eyes, Jiang Chen’s luck point was fluctuating rapidly, akin to a gushing volcano.

His luck point had ascended a level compared to before.

What did this signify? It meant that Jiang Chen had finally become the true beneficiary of good fortune and had acquired his own golden opportunity.

Now, he was eligible to allow Gu Changge to reap the rewards.

“Spiritual body itself, countering the universe’s good fortune? What does that entail? Is it related to the Good Fortune Immortal Boat?” Gu Changge’s eyes held a hint of intrigue as he recalled the explanation he received from the system earlier.

Soon enough, he had deduced the kind of luck-bringer Jiang Chen embodied today.

With the spirit housed within his body and reincarnated as an adult, many things would indeed be simplified.

“Qingge, fetch the Fruit of Knowledge,” Gu Changge suddenly instructed Ji Qingxuan, who stood nearby.

The Fruit of Knowledge, as its name suggested, enabled its consumer to swiftly comprehend the language of the world.

For some cultivators who had ascended from lower realms but were unfamiliar with the language of this realm, it proved to be a valuable spiritual fruit.

“Yes, master,” Ji Qingxuan promptly rose upon hearing the command and went to retrieve the fruit. This item was not uncommon in the upper realm and could be found in many shops and street stalls.

“The Fruit of Knowledge?” Xiao Ruoyin glanced at Gu Changge, perplexed.

Hei Yanyu by her side smiled faintly and elucidated, “It’s a common spiritual fruit in the upper realm. Your companions are unfamiliar with the language of this realm. After consuming this fruit, they’ll quickly grasp our language. Even if they’re unable to cultivate in the future, they’ll swiftly adapt to life here.”

Upon hearing Hei Yanyu’s explanation, Xiao Ruoyin was astonished, her gratitude towards Gu Changge deepening even further.

She had only mentioned her companions’ desire to cultivate moments ago, yet Gu Changge not only swiftly agreed but also provided them with the Fruit of Knowledge.

She felt indebted beyond measure.

“Thank you, Mr. Gu,” Xiao Ruoyin expressed, a faint blush coloring her cheeks as she gazed gently at Gu Changge.

She knew that if it weren’t for her, Gu Changge wouldn’t have bothered with such trifles.

“It’s nothing, no need for that,” Gu Changge replied with a smile, raising his glass in a toast, seemingly nonchalant.

Shortly after, Ji Qingxuan returned, bearing a jade plate with seven fist-sized, radiant fruits, each exuding mystical colors and a captivating fragrance that seemed to invigorate the senses.

“Is this the Fruit of Knowledge?” Xiao Ruoyin inquired with curiosity.

Gu Changge nodded. “Indeed, it is.”

Upon hearing this, Xiao Ruoyin rose, took the jade plate from Ji Qingxuan, and made her way towards the banquet where Jiang Chen and Niu Tian sat.

Observing their puzzled expressions, Xiao Ruoyin smiled warmly as she explained, “This is the Fruit of Knowledge. Upon consuming it, you’ll comprehend the language of this world. Moreover, Young Master Gu has granted my request. You may all soon test your aptitude for cultivation.”

“The Fruit of Knowledge?”

“Really?”

“That’s fantastic! Thank you so much, Young Master Gu!”

Niu Tian, Wang Ning, and the others were momentarily stunned before their excitement bubbled over.

Their gratitude towards Gu Changge at this moment knew no bounds. Not only had he acceded to their request, but he also provided them with the Fruit of Knowledge, enabling them to understand the language of this realm.

In this moment, Gu Changge’s immense kindness and generosity erased any lingering grievances from their days of detention.

Who cared about their fallen companions now? They were on the brink of becoming immortals, capable of traversing the skies and manipulating celestial bodies.

“This Young Master Gu is truly benevolent, no wonder Xiao Ruoyin…” Niu Tian murmured softly, but quickly silenced himself out of fear of upsetting Jiang Chen.

Yet, Jiang Chen appeared indifferent, nodding in agreement and offering a faint smile. “Yes, Young Master Gu is indeed a good person. I was narrow-minded before, leading to misunderstandings. Ruoyin, please convey my gratitude to Young Master Gu. His kindness and generosity will always be remembered by Jiang Chen.”

He wasn’t naive. Stirring up trouble at this moment would not only offend Gu Changge, but it would also be unwise.

On the contrary, drawing too much attention from Gu Changge would prove detrimental to Jiang Chen’s future endeavors.

Upon hearing Jiang Chen’s words, Xiao Ruoyin, though exhibiting a faint sense of estrangement, managed a smile. “Alright, I’ll relay your message to Young Master Gu later. But I believe you should convey these sentiments to him yourself. Given Young Master Gu’s character, he shouldn’t hold any grudges against you.”

Despite her reassurances, she couldn’t shake off her lingering worry, fearing that Jiang Chen might still harbor resentment.

After all, with Jiang Chen’s capabilities, confronting Gu Changge was akin to courting disaster.

Having known each other for some time, she couldn’t bear the thought of Jiang Chen meeting an untimely end.

“Sure, if the opportunity arises, I’ll definitely do so,” Jiang Chen replied with a light smile, unfazed by Xiao Ruoyin’s words as he reached for the Fruit of Knowledge from the jade plate.

However, instead of immediately consuming it like the others, he examined it with curiosity, his expression thoughtful.

Observing Jiang Chen, Xiao Ruoyin couldn’t help but sense a subtle transformation within him compared to before.

There was an air of self-assurance and detachment, as if he had undergone a profound change, almost like a rebirth.

Reflecting on Jiang Chen’s recent demeanor, Xiao Ruoyin attributed it to his newfound sense of purpose upon realizing he could pursue the path of cultivation.

“If you can make sense of it, then all the better,” she remarked with a smile before returning to Gu Changge’s side to share a whispered conversation with him.

Gu Changge responded gracefully, addressing her inquiries with his usual poise and charm.

Meanwhile, Niu Tian, Wang Ning, and the others couldn’t wait to ingest the Fruit of Knowledge the moment it was in their hands.

This marked their first time ingesting a Spiritual Fruit from the Upper Realm. Its wondrous effects elicited wide-eyed amazement from everyone.

The moment they swallowed, the Fruit of Knowledge transformed into a crystal-clear spring, its taste refreshing and invigorating as it permeated their limbs and bones.

Each cell and every inch of flesh and blood tingled with a mysterious energy, while a sense of enlightenment washed over them, clarifying the once muddled sounds around them.

“That’s incredible,” one exclaimed, eyes widened in disbelief as he found himself suddenly comprehending the words spoken around him.

The revelation filled him with excitement and wonder. Could he possibly ascend to become a celestial immortal in the future? Revel in the company of breathtaking beauties? Command the world?

“Niu Tian…” Jiang Chen’s gaze fell upon Niu Tian, his brow furrowing slightly as he held the fruit in his hand, eager to partake.

He had intended to advise Niu Tian to delay consumption, but it seemed he was too late.

With a helpless sigh, Jiang Chen resigned himself to the situation. He knew Gu Changge’s benevolent nature, but vigilance was still warranted. Who knew if there might be any unforeseen issues with the Fruit of Knowledge provided by him?

Besides, Jiang Chen had already gained comprehension of the language of this world, making consumption of the fruit unnecessary for him.

“What’s the matter?” Niu Tian inquired, noticing Jiang Chen’s hesitation after finishing his own portion. Assuming Jiang Chen was concerned about potential harm, he reassured him with a smile, “Don’t worry, it’s safe to eat. I can understand everything around us now; this stuff is truly remarkable.”

“Right,” Jiang Chen nodded, though inwardly he sought counsel from the artifact spirit that manifested the immortal boat.

Choosing not to consume it now would be akin to disrespecting Gu Changge in front of everyone. The consequences of such an action were uncertain.

“Jiang Chen, don’t eat it, or if you do, don’t swallow it right away. I have a feeling this Fruit of Knowledge might be different from the ordinary ones. It’s best to be cautious,” cautioned the artifact spirit of the immortal boat, its voice tinged with unease and vigilance.

“Got it,” Jiang Chen nodded, and then, in the presence of many onlookers, he ingested the Fruit of Knowledge.

However, when the fruit transformed into a clear spring in his mouth, he refrained from swallowing it like the others, opting instead to keep it in his mouth.

With a feigned swallow, he pretended to ingest it.

Afterward, Jiang Chen started to drink alcohol on his own, appearing somewhat despondent.

Yet, his haste led to him choking on the wine in his mouth, causing it to spill out.

“Take it easy, what’s the rush?” Niu Tian glanced at him with a mix of sympathy and helplessness, understanding Jiang Chen’s discomfort but refraining from commenting further.

“I’m fine now, much better,” Jiang Chen reassured with a calm smile, appearing composed.

At the top of the gathering, Gu Changge observed all of Jiang Chen’s subtle actions with a hint of amusement, yet refrained from acknowledging them openly.

To him, Jiang Chen’s behavior resembled that of a child playing house—an amusing spectacle with no real consequence.

Nevertheless, in order to foster Jiang Chen’s growth, Gu Changge didn’t mind his cautious approach.

“Young Master Gu, Jiang Chen asked me to apologize to you for his actions last time. I hope you don’t mind,” interjected the elegant and tranquil voice from the side.

Unaware of Gu Changge’s thoughts, Xiao Ruoyin remembered Jiang Chen’s request and proceeded to raise her wine glass, offering a toast to Gu Changge.

“It’s okay, I wouldn’t dwell on such a trivial matter,” Gu Changge replied, turning his head with a nonchalant smile.

“Yeah,” Xiao Ruoyin’s cheeks flushed slightly, feeling bashful under Gu Changge’s gaze.

Observing the scene from a distance, Jiang Chen’s expression appeared somewhat uneasy, though he quickly regained his composure. However, his fist clenched tightly under the table.

As the festivities continued, the host and guests alike seemed to become increasingly jovial, with many indulging in the revelry of the moment.

Niu Tian, Wang Ning, and the others had long abandoned their vigilance toward Gu Changge, some even daring to offer him toasts with their wine glasses.

Gu Changge graciously accepted each gesture, his demeanor exuding warmth and charm, leaving everyone feeling flattered by his presence.

As the banquet neared its end, a figure suddenly appeared at the entrance of the hall.

“So, you’re here?” Gu Changge noticed the disturbance, his gaze shifting towards the entrance.

Emerging from the void was a stunning woman dressed in fiery red attire, her bare feet gliding gracefully over the floor. Her hair was meticulously styled, her skin porcelain-white and radiant.

Her delicate facial features, with eyes resembling glassy gems, held a cold expression. A teardrop-shaped mole beneath the corner of her eye added a unique allure to her appearance.

Niu Tian and the others were practically mesmerized, their breaths becoming erratic. They had never laid eyes on such an incredibly beautiful and captivating woman before. Neither Hei Yanyu nor Ji Qingxuan possessed her commanding presence and style. She was undoubtedly a formidable powerhouse. That was their initial reaction.

“Hello, young master,” the newcomer was none other than Yan Ji, dispatched by the Ancient Immortal Gu family upon Gu Changge’s orders. Her aura had noticeably strengthened since their first encounter. Quasi-Supreme Realm! Though it was just a recent breakthrough, it marked a significant advancement from her previous state as a soul fragment teetering on the brink of dissolution.

“Congratulations on reaching the Quasi-Supreme Realm. You haven’t disappointed me,” Gu Changge congratulated with a smile.

Yan Ji’s gaze shifted between Gu Changge, Ji Qingxuan, Hei Yanyu, and Xiao Ruoyin, her thoughts inscrutable.

“I thought the young master had forgotten about me,” Yan Ji’s voice remained composed, but a faint undertone of resentment was discernible to Niu Tian and the others.

This stirred envy within them. When would they ever achieve such heights? And to have such beautiful women accompanying them—truly, their envy knew no bounds.

“What’s wrong? Are you not satisfied with your progress in cultivation?” Gu Changge inquired with a smile. Then, he turned to Xiao Ruoyin and remarked, “This is the master I’ve arranged for you. You’ll be under her guidance for your cultivation.”

“Master?” Xiao Ruoyin was taken aback. Initially, she had expected her master to be some elderly figure with graying hair. The reality of encountering such a strikingly beautiful and somewhat unconventional woman caught her off guard.

But soon, Xiao Ruoyin gathered herself and hastily saluted, “Ruoyin greets, Master.”

Though she had yet to embark on the path of cultivation, Xiao Ruoyin was well aware of the realms in this world. Despite the woman’s youthful appearance, her quasi-supreme status commanded respect, a fact not lost on Xiao Ruoyin.

Yan Ji, understanding Gu Changge’s intentions, maintained a composed demeanor, sparing Xiao Ruoyin from unnecessary formality.

“Master?” Niu Tian, Wang Ning, and the others were taken aback by Gu Changge’s arrangement of a master for Xiao Ruoyin, and the master’s exceptional beauty only fueled their envy.

“Quasi-Supreme… What kind of realm is that? Is it incredibly powerful?” Jiang Chen’s attention was diverted elsewhere. He sought insight from the Immortal Boat Spirit, hoping to gauge Gu Changge’s strength by understanding the prowess of a quasi-supreme.

However, the usually arrogant Immortal Boat Spirit remained silent for a moment before responding, “It’s very formidable. Extremely so, for you.”

It emphasized the point, perhaps to ensure Jiang Chen’s comprehension.

“How formidable exactly?” Jiang Chen pressed for more clarity, unsatisfied with the vague response.

“It’s the level where one can shatter stars with a single finger…” the artifact spirit of the immortal boat divulged.

“Hiss!” Jiang Chen’s heart brimmed with resentment towards Gu Changge, thirsting for revenge. He involuntarily drew a sharp breath, a chilling sensation coursing through his body. The thought of such power left him trembling, unable to fathom Gu Changge’s true strength.

In that moment, Jiang Chen felt as though a bucket of cold water had been dumped over him, sending chills down his spine. His lofty aspirations were instantly overshadowed by a sense of despair. The notion of shattering stars with a mere finger seemed incomprehensible—his previous world paled in comparison.

Could one person truly possess such immense power?

“Don’t despair. Remember, in our prime, even immortals will pale in comparison to us. The quasi-supreme realm should not intimidate you like this…” Fortune Immortal Boat hurriedly offered reassurance and comfort to Jiang Chen, attempting to dispel his despondency.

Though they were currently far from being able to contend with quasi-supremes, who could say what the future held? Jiang Chen found solace in this thought, gradually regaining his composure. Despite his current weakness, the future held infinite possibilities.

“It appears your mindset requires refinement,” remarked the artifact spirit of the immortal boat.

With that, the banquet concluded. Xiao Ruoyin led Jiang Chen, Niu Tian, and the others to undergo tests to assess their natural aptitude, while Gu Changge opted not to accompany them. Instead, he dismissed Hei Yanyu and Ji Qingxuan, leaving only himself and Yan Ji in the hall.