I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 368

Chapter 368: The opportunity that belongs to Jiang Chen, can he have a child of an immortal beast?

As Gu Changge made her way into the Purple Mansion, following the trail left by Jiang Chen, on the opposite end, Jiang Chen finally glimpsed the opportune moment he had been anticipating.

The Immortal Boat Spirit exuded an air of confidence in its methods. After navigating through numerous formations, a stone wall suddenly parted, revealing spacious, crack-lined passageways.

Beyond lay an ancient bridge, stretching towards an indescribably magnificent palace, radiating a blend of splendor and regality.

“Ah, the Heavenly Palm Palace!” exclaimed the Immortal Boat Spirit excitedly.

It was then that Jiang Chen noticed the three gilded characters adorning the palace, exuding an ancient, imposing aura, evoking a sense of celestial dominance.

Though ancient and steeped in history, these characters possessed a timeless elegance that left Jiang Chen pondering their origins.

“Heavenly Palm Palace? How does it relate to the Heavenly Palm Tower?” Jiang Chen mused to himself as he stepped onto the bridge, heading towards the grand main hall ahead.

Soon, he stood before the grand palace doors, glancing left and right before effortlessly pushing them open.

Immediately, a tide-like purple mist rushed forth, thick enough to nearly engulf one’s knees. Stepping into it, Jiang Chen was greeted by a dazzling brilliance, prompting him to instinctively shut his eyes.

“What is this…?” Jiang Chen muttered, his eyes widening in astonishment.

In the next moment, he was stunned into silence. Origin Stones the size of washbasins lay scattered everywhere, their crystalline clarity emitting a kaleidoscope of colors, resembling a sacred sanctuary of immortals.

Among the array of Origin Stones, Jiang Chen spotted peculiar creatures, weapons, jade slips, pots, and various other sealed objects, sending a shiver down his spine.

Surveying the surroundings, he realized the abundance of Origin Stones was beyond measure. The purple mist surrounding him was a byproduct of their liquefaction.

The sheer wealth amassed here was astounding, validating the Immortal Boat Spirit’s claim that this was a meticulously crafted opportunity tailored for him.

He also detected a potent pill aroma permeating the air, filling the void with an enticing fragrance that seemed to beckon one towards immortality.

Further ahead lay a medicinal field teeming with spiritual energy. Bathed in sunlight, divine plants flourished amidst immortal flowers, vibrant clouds, and lingering mist.

“There are countless opportunities here. Spirit grass, Origin Stones, jade slips, techniques, weapons… everything, even sealed medicine pills,” Jiang Chen exclaimed, his eyes widening with incredulity. His breath quickened, his heart racing at the sight of such abundant cultivation resources.

Conscious of the overwhelming temptation, he began collecting these treasures instinctively.

“Stay composed. These are but the beginning, the true treasures lie ahead,” reassured the Good Fortune Immortal Boat Spirit, its voice tinged with excitement and pride, yet maintaining a veneer of composure in Jiang Chen’s presence.

Acknowledging the spirit’s guidance, Jiang Chen forced himself to remain calm, understanding that the Immortal Boat Spirit spoke the truth. If these were merely commonplace, the more extraordinary finds awaited in the depths.

With determination fueling his steps, he pressed on, venturing deeper into the unknown.

“The creatures along the way didn’t pose any threat to Jiang Chen; it seems his physique has something to do with it…”

“The reincarnation of the immortal boat… I wonder what kind of surprise he can offer me in the end. It’s a pity it’s still too premature…”

Gu Changge strolled through the Purple Mountain with hands clasped behind his back, his demeanor relaxed and nonchalant. No one trailed behind him, and no creature dared to approach his side, for those that did met a swift demise, their bodies and spirits reduced to ashes.

“Master,” greeted the black-robed old man respectfully as he appeared ahead.

“Did he detect anything unusual?” Gu Changge inquired casually.

“No, Jiang Chen trusts his subordinate implicitly, following your instructions without question. He perceived nothing amiss,” the old man replied deferentially.

“His trust in his subordinate seems to deepen with each passing moment,” remarked Gu Changge with a smile. “It appears Jiang Chen is quite content with the guardian I’ve appointed for him.”

“Master, when shall we make our move against Jiang Chen?” the old man inquired.

“Fret not. His worth extends beyond mere disposal. He will aid me in maturing the Dao Fruit, at the very least,” Gu Changge replied, his gaze fixed on the stone cave ahead. Sensing Jiang Chen’s proximity, he advanced steadily, feeling the weight of majestic pressure looming overhead.

He could sense Jiang Chen’s whereabouts; the distance wasn’t far now.

However, Gu Changge still intended to allow the demonic puppet to advance first. After all, in name, the black-robed old man served as Jiang Chen’s protector. Any alterations in their interaction would be known to Gu Changge in advance.

Yet, there were other schemes brewing, awaiting Jiang Chen’s arrival.

The palace, though expansive, boasted simplicity and grandeur. Aside from a few collapsed pillars, no other abnormalities marred its appearance.

The grand hall exuded an aura of majesty and weight, resembling a world unto itself, shrouded in mist like a celestial paradise.

As Jiang Chen ventured deeper, he encountered towering pillars that seemed to uphold the heavens themselves.

Suddenly, a distant voice reverberated through the hall. It resonated like a trembling tower, its resonance akin to the tolling of a giant bell, jolting the soul with its deafening intensity.

“What is this?” Jiang Chen’s complexion shifted as if a thorn had pierced his mind, draining him of color in an instant.

A resounding hum filled his ears, as if his consciousness had been struck by a colossal clock, leaving his mind momentarily blank.

Amidst the haze, he discerned a small tower emanating a radiant golden light, floating effortlessly in the sky, exuding an immense chaotic energy.

“A golden tower…” Jiang Chen exclaimed in astonishment.

The pain subsided swiftly, allowing him to once again discern the voice clearly.

“This is the Heavenly Palm Tower calling out to you, sensing your presence,” exclaimed the Good Fortune Immortal Boat Spirit with palpable excitement. “Follow the sound, and you will find it.”

Upon hearing this, Jiang Chen’s face lit up with excitement. Did this mean that the Palm Tower Gu Changge had been tirelessly seeking would soon be within his grasp? After all, Gu Changge’s efforts would ultimately yield nothing. Jiang Chen couldn’t help but wonder if Gu Changge would be consumed by fury when he learned of this.

With renewed fervor, Jiang Chen pressed forward, hastening towards the source of the resounding call.

Boom!!!

The sound of the Dao thundered, as if echoing from the heavens themselves. The deeper he ventured, the more Jiang Chen was enveloped by the deafening resonance, prompting him to ponder whether the sound would reverberate beyond the palace, echoing throughout the Purple Mountain.

In a trance-like state, he envisioned a colossal tower enveloped in golden divine light, pulsating with the profound essence of the heavens—an awe-inspiring sight beyond description.

“I am determined to claim the Heavenly Palm Tower and prevent it from falling into Gu Changge’s hands,” declared Jiang Chen, his gaze unwavering, his fists clenched with resolve as he marched towards the origin of the resounding call.

Despite the palace’s vastness, his path remained unhindered, allowing him to reach his destination swiftly. In the depths of the palace, he beheld the towering structure before him.

Divided into nine layers, the tower gleamed with a golden hue, as if forged from immortal gold, suspended in the sky like a mighty hill. Beneath it lay a platform—a Taoist platform—carved from immortal jade, exuding a natural simplicity and adorned with a vibrant interplay of red glows, golden light, and colorful mists.

A colossal golden roar emanated from the platform, its flickering runes seeming to envelop and suppress everything within its reach. Amidst the platform, a mysterious presence stirred, beckoning Jiang Chen’s attention.

Yet, his focus remained fixed on the Heavenly Palm Tower. After scrutinizing it intently, he concluded that the resounding call echoing in his mind had indeed originated from it.

“This is the Heavenly Palm Tower,” exclaimed the Immortal Boat Spirit excitedly. “You must find a way to claim it.”

“But I haven’t cultivated enough yet. How can I possibly take the Heavenly Palm Tower with me?” Jiang Chen pondered, his brows knit in frustration.

He circled the base of the tower, deep in thought. Cultivators could imbue their weapons with spiritual energy and summon them for battle at will. However, Jiang Chen hadn’t even activated his Spiritual Sea yet. Even if he managed to obtain the Heavenly Palm Tower, he wouldn’t be able to transport it.

He had never anticipated that the Heavenly Palm Tower would be so colossal, towering like an imposing monument rather than a handheld weapon.

“The Heavenly Palm Tower is one of the seven celestial weapons responsible for suppression. Its power is boundless, capable of subduing any adversary,” explained the Immortal Boat Spirit reassuringly. “You can conquer it. It called out to you, signifying its recognition of you.”

Jiang Chen’s expression grew serious at the spirit’s words, prompting him to explore every possible angle beneath the tower’s shadow.

But despite his efforts and various attempts, the Heavenly Palm Tower remained steadfast, as if rooted in place, impervious to his endeavors.

Doubt crept into Jiang Chen’s mind. Had he misinterpreted the earlier call? Perhaps the Heavenly Palm Tower hadn’t been calling to him after all. If it had, why did it remain unmoved?

“Could there be a test that I must pass before it recognizes me?” Jiang Chen mused, his expression perplexed.

“No, as the reincarnation of the Immortal Boat of Good Fortune, it is reasonable to assume that the Heavenly Palm Tower would recognize you…” The Immortal Boat Spirit trailed off, equally puzzled.

Sensing that its previous acquaintances had grown even fainter upon arrival, the spirit felt a sense of helplessness and anxiety. Its incomplete memory hindered its ability to identify these acquaintances.

“Let’s investigate what’s on the platform first,” the Immortal Boat Spirit suggested with a sigh.

Jiang Chen nodded and began to approach the Immortal Jade Taoist Platform beneath the Heavenly Palm Tower. Yet, before he could draw near, he felt a slight tremor ripple through the tower, accompanied by a cascade of brilliance that fell and rippled through the void.

Boom!!

A tremendous and oppressive force surged from the front, bearing down on Jiang Chen’s body as if thousands of colossal weights pressed upon him, rendering it nearly impossible to take another step forward.

“What’s happening? Why is the Heavenly Palm Tower barring my path?” Jiang Chen’s eyes widened in disbelief, struggling to comprehend the situation. He gritted his teeth, his complexion draining of color, cold sweat beading on his forehead.

Despite exerting all his strength, he found it futile to progress. An invisible barrier seemed to loom before him, thwarting his every attempt to advance. Though the Immortal Jade Taoist Platform lay only a few steps away, they felt insurmountable.

“Why?” Jiang Chen’s teeth clenched, veins pulsing on his forehead as he strained against the invisible obstruction. He refused to accept being thwarted when he was so close.

“No, these should rightfully be yours. Why is this happening?” The Good Fortune Immortal Boat Spirit was equally bewildered, unable to comprehend the situation. Moments ago, the Heavenly Palm Tower had remained unresponsive, yet now it actively prevented Jiang Chen from approaching the Taoist platform. Why the sudden change?

Hum!!

In the next moment, the void shimmered with brilliance, unveiling a phantom image of an ancient immortal boat emerging from Jiang Chen’s brow.

“Heavenly Palm Tower, why have you halted our progress?” demanded the spirit of the immortal boat, its voice carrying a mix of anger and immaturity.

Jiang Chen took a deep breath, ceasing his futile efforts to advance. He realized that the Heavenly Palm Tower was the obstacle preventing him from reaching the Taoist platform. Without its approval, any attempt to approach would be in vain.

Though resentment stirred within him, Jiang Chen composed himself, prepared to observe the tower’s response.

According to the Immortal Boat Spirit’s previous explanation, the Heavenly Palm Tower was originally a relic of the Immortal Palace, once tasked with suppressing an entire realm. Hence, they could sense each other’s presence.

Earlier, the creatures within Purple Mountain had allowed Jiang Chen to venture into its depths due to his connection to the Immortal Palace. However, the current obstruction posed by the Heavenly Palm Tower puzzled him.

As the Good Fortune Immortal Boat Spirit inquired, the golden behemoth in the sky seemed to react. It trembled slightly, emitting a resounding roar within the ethereal realm.

In the next moment, a blurry figure materialized within the tower, enveloped in golden light, its features obscured like that of an ancient deity.

“Heavenly Palm Tower, you’ve finally revealed yourself,” remarked the Immortal Boat Spirit, a tinge of surprise coloring its tone.

Clearly, the golden figure that emerged was the Spirit of the Heavenly Palm Tower. Distinct from other Heavenly Palm Artifacts, the Heavenly Palm Tower had been forged with specific materials and methods, intended for the cultivation of spirits and deities.

“Why are you obstructing us?” the Immortal Boat Spirit inquired, utterly perplexed. Logically, they should be aligned in purpose. If the Heavenly Palm Tower chose not to aid Jiang Chen, that would be acceptable, but why impede him?

“Wang Yue is dead,” the Palm Tower Artifact uttered unexpectedly.

“Wang Yue?” Jiang Chen furrowed his brow, puzzled by the sudden mention.

“Wang Yue is dead? This… Well, the Immortal Palace has crumbled regardless. Regardless of Wang Yue’s longevity, he would eventually succumb to old age,” the Immortal Boat Spirit mused, momentarily stunned before speaking in a subdued tone, as if recalling a forgotten memory.

Observing Jiang Chen’s confusion, it proceeded to elucidate. Wang Yue was the immortal beast tasked with guarding the Heavenly Palm Tower. Enormous in size with an exceptionally long lifespan, Wang Yue was likened to a celestial body, with legends even suggesting it was the embodiment of the moon god from the heavens above.

Despite its non-humanoid form, Wang Yue possessed a remarkable beauty and an agelessness that earned it the moniker of a walking living fossil—a fact known only to a select few.

“It seems that this is what the Spirit of the Heavenly Palm Tower meant. But what does Wang Yue’s demise have to do with its decision to prevent me from approaching the Taoist platform?” Jiang Chen pondered aloud.

He speculated that perhaps the Heavenly Palm Tower and Wang Yue shared a profound bond forged over many years, making it difficult for the tower to accept the reality of Wang Yue’s passing. Yet, the reason for the tower’s obstruction remained elusive to him.

“Although it may not be comforting to hear, even the Immortal Palace will eventually crumble, and Wang Yue will naturally succumb to old age,” the Immortal Boat Spirit attempted to console. “You must come to terms with this reality. However, this should not be the reason for halting our progress. Furthermore, what secrets lie within that Taoist platform?”

“Now, the responsibility of restoring the former glory of the Immortal Palace falls squarely on Jiang Chen’s shoulders. The Heavenly Palm Tower hopes that you will not tarnish its reputation, especially considering your past allegiance to the Immortal Palace,” the Immortal Boat Spirit continued, earnestly persuading.

In its estimation, the Heavenly Palm Hall housed numerous cultivation resources such as Origin Stones and spirit plants. Therefore, the Taoist platform likely held even greater treasures, given its significance as a repository for the Immortal Palace’s secrets, entrusted to the Heavenly Palm Tower for safekeeping.

At this juncture, Jiang Chen found himself unable to interject, silently absorbing the spirit’s words. However, he couldn’t shake the feeling that many of the cultivation resources in the Heavenly Palm Hall seemed reserved for him.

“There is nothing else on the Taoist platform; it contains only the offspring of Wang Yue. I have pledged to aid in their upbringing,” the Heavenly Palm Tower Spirit revealed after a brief silence.

This admission left Jiang Chen and the Immortal Boat Spirit stunned.

“What did you say?” the Immortal Boat Spirit exclaimed incredulously. “Are Wang Yue’s descendants within the platform?”

The spirit’s voice quivered with excitement, unable to contain its astonishment.

Though Jiang Chen was unsure of the extent of Wang Yue’s power, the slight tremor in the Immortal Boat Spirit’s voice spoke volumes. The treasures sealed within the Taoist platform must be of immeasurable worth, especially considering their connection to immortals. Jiang couldn’t help but feel a surge of anticipation and excitement.

Wang Yue’s descendants possessed the potential to become true immortal beasts. With such a companion, Jiang Chen could traverse the upper realms with impunity, potentially exacting revenge on Gu Changge effortlessly.

“If that’s the case, then you should entrust Little Wang Yue to us. Jiang Chen is the reincarnation of the Immortal Boat…” The Immortal Boat Spirit urged urgently. “You understand the significance of the Immortal Boat of Good Fortune. It is most fitting for Jiang Chen to care for Little Wang Yue. If you accompany us, you can ensure Little Wang Yue’s safety and aid in her growth. It would be mutually beneficial for us to depart together.”

The spirit’s persuasion was earnest and compelling, aimed at convincing the Heavenly Palm Tower to entrust Little Wang Yue to them and join them in leaving this place.

Despite the fervor stirring within him, Jiang Chen maintained his composure and chose to remain silent.

“He cannot. I made a promise to Wang Yue to ensure the upbringing of her offspring, but he lacks the strength to safeguard them,” the Immortal Boat Spirit argued, its tone firm. “Furthermore, he lacks the necessary resources to facilitate the smooth growth of Wang Yue’s descendants.”

However, these words failed to elicit any change in the Heavenly Palm Tower Spirit’s demeanor. It wasn’t a matter of looking down on Jiang Chen; rather, it simply acknowledged the stark reality that Jiang Chen needed to provide the conditions necessary for Little Wang Yue’s growth.

“If he lacks these resources now, it doesn’t mean he won’t possess them in the future. His potential is immense, and there are abundant resources within the Heavenly Palm Palace,” the Immortal Boat Spirit interjected, coming to Jiang Chen’s defense. It was unwilling to let such a rare opportunity slip away.

For both itself and Jiang Chen, acquiring Little Wang Yue presented an unparalleled opportunity and benefit.