I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 364

Chapter 364: The great opportunity that only belongs to you, wait to offend the young master Changge

“Will there be clues tonight?”

Moonlight cascaded like liquid through the window, dappling the room in its glow, casting scattered patterns upon the algae-covered floor, imbuing them with an unusual luminosity.

On the bed, Yue Mingkong turned her head, the soft blue silk of her hair spilling gently around her. Her eyes shifted, settling on Gu Changge’s face as she spoke softly.

“If my intuition serves me right, the Heavenly Palm Tower should make an appearance tonight.”

Gu Changge glanced at the communication jade talisman in his hand, a smile of intrigue playing on his lips. Chen Ning’er had sent it, indicating she had acquired some leads regarding the whereabouts of the Heavenly Palm Tower. Any further developments would be promptly relayed to him.

As for how Chen Ning’er had obtained this information, Gu Changge remained indifferent. With or without her, he could easily locate the Heavenly Palm Tower. Yet, her involvement would undoubtedly streamline the process, providing him with ample justifications.

“Shall we depart now?” Yue Mingkong ventured, sensing Gu Changge’s underlying motive.

“It’s not pressing.” Gu Changge strolled to the window, hands clasped behind his back, his robes billowing in the breeze as he gazed towards the distant mountains. He narrowed his eyes thoughtfully. “The Heavenly Palm Tower hasn’t made its debut yet. I wonder what Jiang Chen is up to. Seems like he’s dragging his feet.”

“Jiang Chen?” Yue Mingkong arched an eyebrow, unfamiliar with the name. It held no place in her memory or consciousness.

“A fortunate individual from a lower realm,” Gu Changge remarked with a simple smile.

“A fortunate individual?” Yue Mingkong pondered. Could this Jiang Chen be the same sword master from her recollections, the one who wielded the Heavenly Palm Sword? In her memories, that figure exuded an aura of luck. Considering the timing, it seemed plausible that the Heavenly Palm Sword’s master would have been born by now.

In the realm of the Sword Sovereign, where reverence for blades prevailed, Yue Mingkong remained unperturbed. Her previous life’s memories offered reassurance, detailing Gu Changge’s fatal confrontation with the Heavenly Palm Sword’s master, culminating in his acquisition of the coveted weapon by force.

In the inevitable sequence of events, the Heavenly Palm Sword would inevitably find its way into Gu Changge’s possession.

“If we secure the Heavenly Palm Tower, we’ll still lack the Heavenly Palm Wheel and the Heavenly Palm Sword. Once we’ve assembled all seven pieces of the Heavenly Palm Artifacts, we’ll be poised to uncover the remnants of the Immortal Palace,” Yue Mingkong murmured softly.

“The Heavenly Palm Sword may be elusive, but I’m confident the Ji siblings hold the Heavenly Palm Wheel,” Gu Changge remarked with a smile.

Despite understanding the repercussions of challenging him for the Heavenly Palm Tower, the Ji siblings had still ventured forth, signaling their unwavering belief in the Immortal Palace’s existence.

Their audacity hinted at their possession of the remaining heavenly palm artifacts. While Gu Changge already held the heavenly palm bottle, jar, mirror, and seal, the heavenly palm tower, sword, and wheel remained elusive.

Of these, the Heavenly Palm Sword held the most intrigue. Legend painted it as a relic of unparalleled sharpness and supreme offensive capabilities, sparking a relentless pursuit throughout history. It was hailed as the foremost sacred object among the seven heavenly palm weapons.

Rumors whispered of its bearer gaining access to unimaginable power, rendering them invincible. Though steeped in myth, these tales underscored the enigmatic allure of the Heavenly Palm Sword.

Gu Changge harbored doubts regarding the Ji siblings possessing the Heavenly Palm Sword, leaning instead towards the likelihood of them holding the Heavenly Palm Wheel.

“Hmm, it seems there’s news. We can depart now,” Gu Changge remarked, suddenly noticing the communication talisman glowing brightly. A grin spread across his face, akin to a spider sensing its prey.

Yue Mingkong cast a brief glance at him, acknowledging his cue with a nod.

Subsequently, the duo summoned their retinue of followers. With a graceful ascent, they soared into the heavens, transforming into celestial streaks of light that pierced through the sky, leaving their current location behind.

….

Meanwhile, unbeknownst to them, Chen Ning’er trailed behind Jiang Chen, Ji Chuyue, Ji Yaoxing, and the rest of their party.

With Jiang Chen leading the way, the group ventured deeper into the mountains, the surrounding fog thickening until it obscured their surroundings entirely. The sky darkened, engulfing them in an inky blackness where even the moon’s glow failed to penetrate. Only the biting cold wind persisted, seeping into their bones and chilling them to the core.

This wasn’t just any cold breeze; it carried with it a hint of the laws of the heavens and earth, a chilling reminder of the formidable forces at play.

Jiang Chen’s gaze remained impassive as he navigated through the intricate formations with the aid of the Immortal Boat’s spirit, effortlessly circumventing the obstacles he mentioned.

Yet, Ji Chuyue, skeptical by nature, eyed the spot where the divine light flickered. Without hesitation, she tossed a leaf into the void, only to witness it disintegrate into shards in an instant.

The sight sent shivers down Ji Chuyue’s spine, her companions sharing in her unease at the ominous display.

The potency of these arcane innate formations was truly fearsome; even a stray cultivator stumbling into this domain would meet instant destruction. Were it not for Jiang Chen’s timely warning, they would have remained oblivious to the lurking danger.

Even with divine artifacts shielding them, encountering these formations would prove troublesome, potentially leading to bloodshed and peril.

“Don’t touch anything,” Jiang Chen admonished, his gaze falling upon Ji Chuyue’s inquisitive movements. He frowned slightly, expressing his dissatisfaction. “Any disturbance could attract unwanted attention from other cultivators lurking in the night, and you’d bear the consequences.”

Feeling somewhat sheepish, Ji Chuyue withdrew her hand, muttering under her breath, “What’s the harm? I was merely curious.”

Ji Yaoxing shot her a disapproving glance. “You should keep your words to yourself. You pledged to heed Jiang Chen’s guidance upon entering this place. Touching anything contrary to his advice is reckless.”

“Hmph,” Ji Chuyue huffed, but refrained from further argument. She begrudgingly acknowledged Jiang Chen’s concern for their safety.

In an unexpected turn, Jiang Chen, despite being a mortal, had emerged as the pillar of the team.

Ji Yaoxing stole a glance at Jiang Chen leading the way, a fleeting expression of intrigue crossing his features before he composed himself.

Before long, Jiang Chen and his companions entered a relatively low valley basin. The surrounding mountains soared, their imposing silhouettes resembling fierce beasts locked in a silent standoff.

“This seems to be the location of the Heavenly Palm Tower…” Jiang Chen declared calmly as he communed with the Spirit of Good Fortune Immortal Boat within his mind.

“We scoured the area extensively, but we never imagined such a hidden valley. It’s truly remarkable,” Ji Chuyue remarked in astonishment, her gaze sweeping over the landscape before settling on the deep purple mountain range in the distance.

Within the valley, majestic purple peaks encircled them, emanating an ethereal glow that veiled the surroundings in a mystical haze. The valley sprawled expansively, dotted with ancient ruins and the remnants of collapsed underground palaces, hinting at its glorious past as a grand sect.

Ji Yaoxing too found himself awestruck by the scene before them. Without Jiang Chen’s guidance, they might never have stumbled upon this hidden sanctuary.

“This mountain holds an ominous presence, suggesting the possibility of something sealed within its depths…” Ji Yaoxing’s voice echoed with gravity, his gaze fixed on Jiang Chen.

As he spoke, golden divine runes materialized on Ji Yaoxing’s body, transforming him into a figure of golden brilliance, his eyes resembling miniature suns.

Carefully scrutinizing the looming mountains, Ji Yaoxing exuded a formidable aura, his quasi-sacred cultivation base pulsating as he remained vigilant of any potential threats lurking in the vicinity.

In Ji Chuyue’s hand, an emerald jade flute materialized, emitting a soft green glow as it hovered in readiness to strike at a moment’s notice.

Each member of the group stood poised, eyes darting around as they maintained a vigilant watch. Since arriving, an unsettling sensation had settled over their skin, sending shivers down their spines.

“I’m not certain, but it bodes ill,” Jiang Chen admitted, a sense of unease gnawing at him. Despite his efforts to remain composed, the prospect of a looming confrontation left him apprehensive.

Facing the looming uncertainty, Jiang Chen couldn’t help but acknowledge the daunting challenge ahead. With his current strength, survival in a potential skirmish remained uncertain, compounded by his lingering wariness towards the Ji siblings.

Fearing the Ji siblings might betray him once they laid hands on the Heavenly Palm Tower, Jiang Chen couldn’t shake the apprehension that they might burn bridges after crossing them. He envisioned a scenario where they would swiftly turn on him, delivering him into the clutches of Gu Changge.

Though Ji Chuyue appeared innocent, Jiang Chen knew better than to underestimate her. Ji Yaoxing, on the other hand, possessed an honest demeanor but cast occasional glances his way during their journey.

In the face of absolute self-interest, Jiang Chen understood that temperament held little sway. The human heart, he realized, was fickle, prompting him to maintain a vigilant guard. While he once held a favorable opinion of the Ji siblings, it was contingent upon their loyalty.

“Little Chen, there’s a familiar aura here. Proceed with caution and let the Ji siblings take the lead in exploration,” cautioned the voice of the Immortal Boat Spirit in Jiang Chen’s mind.

“Perhaps only you have the chance to seize this opportunity,” it added, a hint of excitement creeping into its tone.

“An opportunity exclusive to me? Is there more here than just the Heavenly Palm Tower?” Jiang Chen’s eyes sparkled with intrigue, swiftly regaining his composure.

However, the Good Fortune Immortal Boat Spirit remained silent, leaving Jiang Chen to ponder its cryptic message.

“Based on the terrain, the Heavenly Palm Tower should be concealed here, possibly within this purple mountain,” Jiang Chen asserted confidently, his demeanor unwavering.

At the heart of the valley stood a relatively low mountain, appearing as though it had been hewn from purple gold. Rising thousands of feet high, it emitted a subtle purple glow, hinting at the presence of something suspended upon it.

Pointing towards the purple mountain, Jiang Chen addressed Ji Chuyue and her brother. “It’s likely that the Heavenly Palm Tower lies within. Shall we proceed?”

In Ji Chuyue’s captivating eyes, a soft green divine light danced like ripples upon a serene lake, fixated on the purple mountain before her.

Observing her, Ji Yaoxing spoke in a subdued tone, “I’ve scanned it with my heavenly eyes. This Purple Mountain is exceedingly perilous; even those in the sacred realm would meet their demise within.”

His voice carried a note of caution, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

Simultaneously, Ji Yaoxing cast a glance at Jiang Chen, noting his calm and confident demeanor. Seeing that Jiang Chen had no intention of entering the perilous mountain, Ji Yaoxing lowered his gaze and addressed his sister.

“Chuyue, you stay outside. I’ll venture in and investigate. If there’s any danger, you must leave immediately. I have the means to protect myself; you need not worry,” he assured her.

Though concern etched Ji Chuyue’s features, she refrained from further protest, nodding in agreement. “Be careful, brother,” she urged him softly.

Listening to their exchange, Jiang Chen couldn’t help but admire Ji Yaoxing. In this critical moment, the young man prioritized the safety of his younger sister—a testament to his noble character. Jiang Chen speculated that the glances Ji Yaoxing had cast his way earlier might have been incredulous.

Suddenly, a tremor rippled through the air as Ji Yaoxing sprang into action, stepping forward with determination. A golden radiance enveloped his form, flowing like liquid sunlight. His palm emitted layers of brilliant golden light, imbuing his presence with a sacred aura.

“Divine bone? This Ji family’s child is indeed blessed with great fortune,” the Immortal Boat Spirit remarked, a hint of astonishment in its voice.

“What’s a divine bone?” Jiang Chen inquired, sensing the formidable strength emanating from Ji Yaoxing’s arm bone, which seemed to pulse with an overwhelming presence.

The Immortal Boat Spirit proceeded to explain. The divine bone, as its name implied, was the skeletal remnant of an innate god, specifically a hand bone. In a momentary vision, one could almost see a golden ancient god seated cross-legged within it, reciting ancient scriptures.

It’s crucial to understand that innate gods and true gods were entirely different entities. In ancient times, innate gods were beings recognized by heaven and earth, bearing the mark of the cosmos itself. They were among the most enigmatic creatures to ever exist. Some innate gods wielded enlightened-level combat power from birth.

The divine bone was reputedly the hardest bone that remained after an ancient god’s unsuccessful attempt at nirvana. This made Ji Yaoxing’s arm bone not just a relic, but a vessel of immense power and heritage.

The divine bone, a relic of an ancient god, harbored both annihilation and vitality, with legends suggesting it might even enable future resurrection.

As Jiang Chen communicated with the Immortal Boat Spirit, Ji Yaoxing transformed into a golden streak of light, surging towards the Purple Mountain.

“No, I can’t let him get there first,” Chen Ning’er muttered. She had been shadowing Jiang Chen and his group, concealed in the darkness. Upon witnessing this scene, her expression shifted dramatically.

From the conversation between Jiang Chen, Ji Chuyue, and Ji Yaoxing, she had gleaned that the Heavenly Palm Tower was likely hidden within the Purple Mountain. This realization marked a pivotal opportunity for her.

Determined not to let this chance slip away, she readied herself to act.

A sharp sound pierced the air as everyone saw a fiery red sword, shrouded in a glowing crimson aura. It was suddenly wielded by Chen Ning’er, slashing towards the Purple Mountain to intercept Ji Yaoxing.

“Who is it?” Ji Chuyue, Jiang Chen, and the others were instantly on high alert, their expressions shifting dramatically at the unexpected intrusion. They hadn’t anticipated encountering anyone else in this remote area.

All of Ji Chuyue’s confidants immediately drew their weapons, their gazes fixed warily in the direction from which Chen Ning’er had launched her attack.

Despite the sudden assault, Ji Yaoxing moved with incredible speed, leaving a lightning-like afterimage in the void as he swiftly disappeared into the Purple Mountain. The fiery red sword failed to halt his advance.

Moments later, a rumbling sound echoed from within the Purple Mountain, reminiscent of the sky itself splitting open, creating an ominous and heavy atmosphere.

“Since you’ve been exposed, why haven’t you shown yourself?” Ji Chuyue demanded, her voice cold and filled with anger. She glared in the direction from which the sword had flown.

Jiang Chen, meanwhile, took a few cautious steps back, wary of being caught in the crossfire. In his current frail state, any cultivator could easily overpower him.

Curiosity piqued, he wondered who had been tailing them and had now revealed themselves. Reflecting on this, he resolved to be more vigilant and circumspect in his future actions.

The methods of cultivators in this world were simply unpredictable and impossible to guard against.

“Hehe, Ji Chuyue, you all are quite daring. Sneaking here in the dead of night to find the traces of the Heavenly Palm Tower, and without informing Young Master Changge? You planned to seize it for yourselves?” A clear, bell-like laughter rang out.

Emerging from the darkness, Chen Ning’er and her group became visible. The gleaming brilliance from the ancient mirror in her hand gradually dissipated, and their previously concealed auras were now fully revealed.

“Chen Ning’er, is that you? You actually followed us secretly and even brought an imitation of that weapon?” Ji Chuyue frowned deeply, recognizing the ancient mirror in Chen Ning’er’s hand. Realization dawned on her, and she inwardly noted the potential trouble ahead.

She identified the ancient mirror held by Chen Ning’er. Though it appeared simple and unremarkable, it was an imitation of the Heavenly Palm Sky Mirror, a device known for its extraordinary ability to conceal one’s aura and presence. This explained why Ji Chuyue and her group hadn’t detected Chen Ning’er and her companions earlier.

“Enough with the nonsense, Ji Chuyue. Your boldness is commendable, but I wonder if Young Master Changge is aware of your nocturnal investigation into the traces of the Heavenly Palm Tower.”

“If memory serves me right, didn’t someone vow in front of Young Master Changge that upon obtaining clues about the Heavenly Palm Tower, they would inform him immediately?” Chen Ning’er’s laughter was tinged with irony, her eyes shimmering with emotion.

Tall and slender, with soft flowing hair, Chen Ning’er possessed an ethereal beauty that captivated many. Her flawless complexion, cherry-red lips, and eyes as deep as autumn waters added to her allure.

Ji Chuyue and Ji Yaoxing’s expressions shifted slightly at Chen Ning’er’s words. Jiang Chen, standing behind Ji Chuyue, also felt a twinge of surprise.

Their failure to inform Gu Changge of their nocturnal activities hinted at their intentions to seize the Heavenly Palm Tower for themselves. Jiang Chen couldn’t help but speculate that they might still possess the other pieces of the Heavenly Palm artifacts. Otherwise, why would they risk secretly searching for the tower without informing Gu Changge, knowing the potential consequences?

This revelation reinforced Jiang Chen’s belief that the pursuit of power and self-interest often clouded judgment, influencing decisions even among those close to him.

“So, they had already planned to defy Gu Changge, which is why they readily accepted my grudge against him,” Jiang Chen mused silently.

“Chen Ning’er, what exactly are you insinuating?” Ji Chuyue’s tone turned cold, her expression a mask of feigned ignorance.

“Quit the charade. I overheard your conversation. Unless you plan to kill me here and now and dispose of my body, you’re on the path to offending Young Master Changge,” Chen Ning’er retorted, her smile dripping with disdain, a gesture that only served to further irritate Ji Chuyue.

To Ji Chuyue, the implications were clear: the Ji siblings were not foolish enough to jeopardize their relationship with Gu Changge. Chen Ning’er’s accusation left them with no plausible deniability.

“The true owner of treasures is determined by their virtue. Going by your logic, Young Master Changge could claim all the treasures in the world as his own, denying others the right to vie for them. How presumptuous,” Jiang Chen interjected before Ji Chuyue could respond, his tone laced with bitterness and indignation.