I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 366

Chapter 366: The old man in the black robe appeared to save Jiang Chen, and everyone becomes a tool in his hands

The full moon hung in the sky like a string of silver, casting its luminous glow upon the landscape. Purple Mountain loomed majestically, veiled in ethereal purple mist. Occasionally, eerie sounds emanated from its depths, resembling the echoing roar of distant boulders tumbling down a mountainside.

In the valley below, a somber atmosphere prevailed, enveloping the inhabitants in silence. Their brows furrowed with apprehension, their voices subdued in fear. Even Chen Ning’er couldn’t shake the chill creeping down her spine, her complexion paling in the moonlight.

Though Gu Changge refrained from questioning her earlier words, the sense of dread lingered like a haunting nightmare, casting a pall over them all. As Gu Changge withdrew his gaze, a faint smile played upon his lips, offering a semblance of relief. Yet the lingering terror persisted, clinging to them like dampened clothes after a plunge into icy waters.

Chen Ning’er and the others couldn’t shake the suspicion that a single misstep from Ji Yaoxing would spell catastrophe. Gu Changge’s formidable power, though only whispered about, loomed like a specter, capable of challenging even the most esteemed cultivators. The notion of Ji Yaoxing’s demise seemed as effortless to Gu Changge as squashing an insignificant ant beneath his heel.

“Young Master Changge, please don’t fret. Although I didn’t secure the Heavenly Palm Tower today,” Ji Yaoxing began, his tone respectful as he addressed Gu Changge. “But I’ve already informed the family, and we’ll soon have the Heavenly Palm Wheel ready for delivery. Consider it a small token of apology. I sincerely hope that Young Master Changge will be forgiving, despite the events that transpired between me and my sister.”

Ji Yaoxing breathed a sigh of relief, clasping his hands together in a gesture of deference. “Brother Yaoxing is indeed magnanimous,” Gu Changge acknowledged with a nod. “In that case, any offense taken was on my part.”

Gu Changge’s demeanor remained composed, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips. Unperturbed by the thoughts swirling around him, he maintained his calm demeanor. Even if Ji Yaoxing hadn’t offered the Heavenly Palm Wheel, he was confident in his ability to secure it, one way or another. Ji Yaoxing’s sensible approach had, in fact, saved him some trouble.

Ji Chuyue stole a fearful glance at Gu Changge before quickly averting her gaze. Her initial curiosity upon meeting him was swiftly replaced by apprehension. What manner of individual was this rumored strongest among the younger generation, whose power was said to send ripples through the upper echelons? Today’s encounter had nearly shaken her to her core, leaving her to ponder the true extent of Gu Changge’s formidable might.

She couldn’t help but suspect that even their father, the head of the secretive Ji family, would fare little better than them in front of Gu Changge’s presence.

“I wonder, Young Master Changge, how do you intend to handle Jiang Chen?” Ji Yaoxing inquired, his voice tinged with newfound ease as the weight lifted from his heart.

A sudden glint flickered across Ji Yaoxing’s otherwise composed countenance as he turned his gaze towards the somewhat stunned figure of Jiang Chen standing behind him. Jiang Chen, still reeling from the earlier shock, hadn’t fully regained his composure.

Upon hearing that Ji Yaoxing intended to confront him, Jiang Chen’s expression shifted abruptly, a wave of panic washing over him. Without a moment’s hesitation, he sought guidance from the Immortal Boat Spirit within his mind, desperate for a means of survival.

“Your only option now is to flee into the depths of Purple Mountain behind you, and the sooner, the better. Once within, I can utilize its terrain to aid our escape,” the Immortal Boat Spirit advised solemnly. “This is your sole chance at survival. The Ji siblings will offer no assistance; a miscalculation on my part. I had overestimated their resolve and underestimated Gu Changge’s might.”

The weight of the Immortal Boat Spirit’s words hung heavily in Jiang Chen’s mind. “But how can I outpace them? They could easily overtake me in an instant,” Jiang Chen fretted, his nerves on edge. Though he longed to flee, the watchful eyes of Ji Yaoxing’s confidants and Chen Ning’er’s followers kept him rooted in place, thwarting any hasty escape attempts.

“For now, I’ll work to disrupt the current state of affairs, creating an opening for your escape. Seize it without hesitation,” the Immortal Boat Spirit instructed with solemnity.

Jiang Chen nodded in acknowledgment, his heart weighed down by the gravity of the situation. He knew that even the slightest lapse in judgment could spell his demise, both physically and spiritually. Nervousness coursed through him, beads of sweat forming on his palms and back.

“Jiang Chen? That name rings a bell,” Ji Yaoxing remarked, prompting Gu Changge to pause in thought. After a moment of consideration, he turned his gaze toward Jiang Chen with a hint of curiosity. “Though unfamiliar, there’s a sense of recognition.”

Ji Yaoxing leaned in to offer an explanation in hushed tones. “This Jiang Chen bears the lineage of the Divine Origin Master. He previously claimed to hold a grudge against Young Master Changge. However, his current appearance is a disguise, likely an attempt to evade detection.”

Gu Changge’s expression remained unperturbed, his smile tinged with indifference. “Ah, the Divine Origin Master? Clever disguise, indeed,” he mused, his memory failing to recall any past grievances with such a figure.

“This is Jiang Chen’s own admission, and he wouldn’t dare deceive Young Master Changge,” Ji Yaoxing interjected, his gaze flickering with a chill as he directed his words towards Jiang Chen. “He’s made numerous attempts to persuade my sister and me to assassinate Young Master Changge, seeking to plunge the Ji family into the depths of ruin. His actions warrant punishment.”

Chen Ning’er and the others were taken aback by this revelation. They hadn’t anticipated such audacity from a disciple of the Divine Origin Master, willing to conspire against Gu Changge—how brazen and fearless he must be!

Gu Changge maintained his enigmatic smile, his playful demeanor unchanged as he continued to observe Jiang Chen intently. Though he undoubtedly recognized Jiang Chen’s true identity, he chose not to acknowledge it.

With a cold expression, Jiang Chen addressed Gu Changge, “You, Gu Changge, have a remarkable ability to forget. I recall vividly the hostilities between you and my comrades.”

As he spoke, Jiang Chen underwent a dramatic transformation, reverting to his true form according to the method Ji Chuyue had provided him. The sudden change in appearance elicited surprise from those present.

Observing the scene, Gu Changge nodded knowingly before speaking with genuine interest, “Ah, it’s you. But what exactly are you insinuating?”

“Despite my generosity in sparing you, you dare to cast blame upon me now? Isn’t that the epitome of ingratitude? A white-eyed wolf showing no appreciation,” Gu Changge remarked casually, his tone laced with indifference.

Jiang Chen seethed with nameless anger at Gu Changge’s calm demeanor, feeling a surge of indignation coursing through him.

Despite his inner turmoil, Jiang Chen forced himself to maintain composure as he spoke icily, “You lack the courage to acknowledge your actions, Gu Changge. Is there no limit to your shamelessness? While you appeared to spare us on the surface, you covertly orchestrated attempts on our lives.”

He paused, his voice tinged with bitterness as he continued, “It’s just that Ruoyin is so pure-hearted and trusting that she couldn’t see through your facade.”

The mention of Xiao Ruoyin stirred a deep-seated resentment and pain within Jiang Chen, tearing at his emotions.

As for the onlookers, they were perplexed by the animosity between Jiang Chen and Gu Changge, unsure of the underlying cause behind their feud—had Gu Changge spared them or sought their demise?

Only Yue Mingkong cast a sidelong glance at Gu Changge, searching his eyes for answers. She pondered over the identity of the woman Jiang Chen referred to as Ruoyin, sensing a connection between her absence and Gu Changge’s involvement. It seemed that a woman had fallen victim to Gu Changge’s machinations in Xiao Ruoyin’s absence, sparking the feud between Jiang Chen and Gu Changge.

Yue Mingkong resolved to inquire about Ruoyin when the opportunity arose, seeking clarification from Gu Changge himself.

“So that’s your perspective,” Gu Changge responded nonchalantly. “Xiao Ruoyin possesses a legendary physique, and your entanglement with her is ill-advised. Have you not yet realized this?”

With a dismissive wave of his hand, Gu Changge’s interest waned, his tone indifferent.

“Gu Changge, your deception of her is nothing but a feeble excuse. Ruoyin was naive upon entering this world, easily misled by your facade,” Jiang Chen spat out with seething resentment, his gaze filled with an intensity that seemed to devour Gu Changge whole.

“How dare you!” A follower behind Gu Changge interjected, his voice resonating with authority. “The master graciously allowed you to depart unharmed, yet you show no gratitude. Now you dare to challenge him? The master’s benevolence spares you from retribution, but do not mistake it for weakness. If the master so desires, there will be no sanctuary for you in the entire upper realm. With your limited prowess, can you truly hope to survive?”

Despite the follower’s arrogant tone, his words held undeniable truth, causing a ripple of unease to spread among those present. Gu Changge, however, remained indifferent, his expression placid, his gaze unwavering.

The follower’s formidable presence, akin to that of a yaksha, commanded attention and respect, altering the atmosphere with his assertive declaration. Though his words may have sounded arrogant, they resonated with an underlying truth that unsettled even the most stalwart of observers.

Indeed, against Gu Changge’s overwhelming power, the notion of a mere mortal escaping his wrath seemed futile at best.

Jiang Chen’s anger flared at the implication, a sneer curling his lips. “Had it not been for sheer luck, I would have perished long ago at the hands of the creatures he dispatched. I wouldn’t be standing here today.”

“You insolent fool! You court your own demise!” the Yaksha-like creature thundered, his fury palpable as he moved to strike Jiang Chen down.

A colossal green palm imprint materialized in the sky, crackling with potent energy, its descent imminent. The ground quaked beneath its weight, the mountains echoed with its approach, and the surrounding auras intertwined in a display of unparalleled might. Even the most esteemed geniuses of the sacred realm would approach such a force with caution, let alone a mortal like Jiang Chen.

Jiang Chen’s complexion paled, desperation etched across his features as he realized the direness of his situation. The ruthless assault left him with no chance to evade, his fate seemingly sealed in that moment.

Chen Ning’er and the others watched on with indifference, their expressions unmoved by the unfolding spectacle. Ji Yaoxing remained stoic, his countenance unchanged, while Ji Chuyue, unable to bear witnessing the impending tragedy, averted her gaze in discomfort.

Initially finding Jiang Chen amusing, Ji Chuyue had extended him numerous spiritual resources for cultivation. However, she now realized the depth of the animosity between him and Gu Changge, a revelation that caught her off guard.

Moreover, Ji Chuyue realized that her affiliation with the hidden Ji family implicated her as well. If she wished to avoid the fate of the Purple Mansion, she had no choice but to sever ties with Jiang Chen and shift all blame onto him.

“I’m sorry, Jiang Chen…” Ji Chuyue’s voice trembled with sadness and guilt, her eyes betraying her inner turmoil. Despite her remorse, she dared not intervene.

“Gu Changge, even if I become a ghost, I won’t let you off…” Jiang Chen’s voice rang out defiantly, his expression a mix of despair and determination as the crushing palm bore down on him.

Boom!

The air quivered as if on the brink of explosion.

“Get out of here!”

In the nick of time, an elderly figure cloaked in black materialized, radiating a menacing aura of sacred power. With a swift motion, he intercepted the descending palm, simultaneously whisking Jiang Chen away from imminent doom and toward the safety of Purple Mountain.

For Jiang Chen, the path ahead was blocked, his only escape route leading into the depths of Purple Mountain.

“Senior in the black robe…” Jiang Chen’s eyes widened in astonishment, disbelief coursing through him as he realized that, in his darkest hour, the mysterious figure had returned to rescue him once more.

Overwhelmed with excitement and gratitude, Jiang Chen found himself at a loss for words, his emotions too overwhelming to articulate.

“How foolish. Putting your trust in the Ji siblings was a grave error. Do you only realize your folly now?” The black-robed old man’s voice dripped with disdain, his frustration palpable as if he wished to shake some sense into Jiang Chen.

Despite his reproach, the old man acted swiftly. Seizing Jiang Chen, he whisked him away into the safety of Purple Mountain, disappearing into the darkness like a fleeting shadow.

“Who was that man?”

“If his aura was any indication, he must be a formidable cultivator of the Great Sacred realm, right?”

The sudden appearance of the mysterious rescuer left everyone stunned. Never had they imagined that such a powerful ally lurked behind Jiang Chen, ready to intervene at a crucial moment.

Moreover, the boldness of the black-robed old man’s actions—openly defying Gu Changge to save Jiang Chen—sent shockwaves through the onlookers. They couldn’t fathom the identity of this enigmatic figure, but they understood the risks he undertook. Offending Gu Changge, regardless of one’s status, spelled potential doom in the upper realm.

As the saying went, once estranged from Gu Changge’s favor, even the vast expanse of the upper realm would offer no sanctuary.

“Who would’ve thought that Jiang Chen harbored such a powerful ally in the Great Sacred Realm? No wonder he displayed such confidence and spoke so boldly,” remarked one observer, awe evident in their tone.

“Why did he even join the Divine Ruins Sect? Could it be that he already knew the location of the Heavenly Palm Tower and came here intentionally, using his actions and words to conceal the truth?” Ji Yaoxing pondered, his brow furrowed with uncertainty. Though questions swirled in his mind, he refrained from voicing them to Gu Changge, his expression somber with apprehension.

“Master, I beg your forgiveness…” The Yaksha-like creature who had attacked Jiang Chen knelt before Gu Changge, offering his apologies for his lapse in judgment. Gu Changge, however, dismissed the apology with a wave of his hand, his countenance returning to its usual impassive state.

“It matters not what transpired. It appears Jiang Chen has garnered considerable support,” Gu Changge remarked casually. “A patron from the Great Sacred Realm stands behind him. It seems he has capitalized on numerous opportunities during this time.”

Yue Mingkong cast a sidelong glance at Gu Changge, sensing an underlying significance in his words. The calm demeanor displayed by the black-robed old man upon his appearance suggested a premeditated plan, indicating that Gu Changge may have anticipated this turn of events.

With this realization, Yue Mingkong couldn’t shake the chill creeping down her spine. If Jiang Chen was indeed a pawn orchestrated by Gu Changge, then what role did the black-robed old man play in this intricate game? The thought left her feeling unsettled.

Indeed, once Gu Changge set his sights on someone, they would be haunted by nightmares for the rest of their days, an ordeal from which escape seemed futile.

“The one accompanying Jiang Chen hails from the Great Sacred Realm…” Ji Chuyue finally grasped the gravity of the situation, a shiver coursing down her spine. She couldn’t shake the sense of foreboding that enveloped her.

What could have driven Jiang Chen to join the Divine Ruins Sect? Based on the recent events, it seemed likely that the black-robed old man served as his protector or guardian of sorts.

“Purple Mountain is a perilous and enigmatic place. Jiang Chen’s odds of survival within are slim to none. Even if he were to miraculously escape, there would be no refuge behind Purple Mansion. His only hope lies within,” Chen Ning’er remarked, her voice tinged with a sense of finality. She harbored no illusions about Jiang Chen’s fate, firmly believing that he would meet his end within the treacherous confines of Purple Mountain.

With unwavering resolve, they would bide their time at the mountain’s entrance, patiently awaiting Jiang Chen’s inevitable descent into their trap.

Upon hearing Ji Yaoxing’s assessment, Ji Chuyue shook her head, acknowledging the gravity of his words. “The terrain within Purple Mountain is treacherous, with its own unique spatial characteristics. Despite the dangers, Jiang Chen possesses the skills of a Divine Origin Master, along with an array of mysterious and unpredictable methods. Perhaps he will find a way to navigate through it.”

“During my previous investigations within Purple Mansion, I discovered numerous ancient creatures suppressed within its depths. As one ventures closer to the heart of Purple Mountain, the strength of these creatures increases, with some even surpassing the sacred realm,” Ji Yaoxing elaborated, revealing his insights into the dangers lurking within.

He harbored no belief that Jiang Chen would meet his demise within Purple Mountain. In fact, he credited Jiang Chen with aiding their quest for the Heavenly Palm Tower. Without him, they might still be searching in vain. Hence, Ji Yaoxing speculated that Jiang Chen likely possessed some degree of certainty, prompting his bold decision to venture into Purple Mountain.

“As long as the Heavenly Palm Tower resides within Purple Mountain, we will unearth it no matter the cost. Jiang Chen poses no significant threat,” Gu Changge remarked with a dismissive smile, his confidence unwavering.

Having conferred with his followers, Gu Changge and Yue Mingkong transformed into divine lights, ascending into the sky and disappearing into Purple Mansion. They had no intention of lingering.

“Very well. Ning’er, dispatch your subordinates to explore Purple Mountain. Capture Jiang Chen for Young Master Changge,” Chen Ning’er instructed promptly, her expression solemn as she set her plans into motion, directing her subordinates accordingly.

Ji Yaoxing and Ji Chuyue exchanged glances, understanding the urgency of their task. Without delay, they instructed their trusted allies to delve deep into Purple Mansion in search of the Heavenly Palm Tower and the elusive Jiang Chen.

Amidst bursts of dazzling brilliance, the group embarked on their perilous journey. Though fully aware of the dangers that awaited them within Purple Mansion, none dared to defy Gu Changge’s directives, hastening their efforts without hesitation. In times like these, obedience was paramount.

Was being a pawn in someone else’s game truly important at this moment?

Soon, only Gu Changge and Yue Mingkong remained behind. Even the Ji siblings, driven by the urgency of their mission, had hurried into the depths of Purple Mansion without lingering outside.

“How certain are you that Jiang Chen will find the Heavenly Palm Tower?” Yue Mingkong’s curiosity prompted her to gaze intently at Gu Changge, her inquiry directed toward his unwavering confidence in Jiang Chen’s abilities.

Gu Changge’s response was brief yet enigmatic. “Ten percent,” he stated with a smile, a faint glimmer of amusement dancing in his eyes. It was as if his gaze penetrated the very depths of Purple Mountain, foreseeing the events yet to unfold.

Yue Mingkong puzzled over his cryptic response. Though Gu Changge lacked confidence in Jiang Chen himself, he placed unwavering faith in Jiang Chen’s luck—the very trait that had earned him the moniker of the “son of luck.”

Furthermore, Jiang Chen possessed another divine artifact: the Immortal Boat of Good Fortune. With such a powerful tool at his disposal, acquiring the Heavenly Palm Tower should indeed be a straightforward task.

“The Ji siblings and Chen Ning’er have unwittingly played into your hands,” Yue Mingkong remarked, her demeanor composed yet tinged with a hint of awe. She couldn’t help but feel that the term “monster” was insufficient to describe Gu Changge’s cunning and foresight.

Gu Changge met her gaze with a placid expression. “It wouldn’t be accurate to call it calculation; rather, it was a seamless execution. Obtaining the Heavenly Palm Tower was not only a stroke of luck, but also a fortuitous acquisition of an additional Heavenly Palm Wheel.”

“I am simply awaiting Jiang Chen’s assistance in locating the Heavenly Palm Tower,” he added with a nonchalant smile.