I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 372

Chapter 372: The vest of human ancestor reincarnation arrives, we are grasshoppers on the same rope

“You are the descendant of the human ancestor hall who supports justice.”

“And I’m the devil who harms the world.”

“We are destined to be on opposite sides.”

“Gu Changge, I can understand you, I know you’re not that bad…”

Before, she simply brushed off Gu Changge’s words as a joke, not taking them seriously. But upon reflection, it dawned on her that his statement didn’t add up. Gu Changge’s true identity would inevitably be unveiled sooner or later; he couldn’t conceal it indefinitely. As the inheritor of demonic arts, his actions had stirred chaos in the world, drawing the ire of many seeking justice. As the holy maiden of the Human Ancestor Hall, how should she confront him? Did she truly have to resort to lethal measures?

Yet, Jiang Chuchu couldn’t deny that Gu Changge wasn’t irredeemable. After all, in the past, he could have easily dispatched her, yet he spared her life repeatedly. Furthermore, she held his most significant secret close to her chest. How could she entertain the notion of harming him?

Deep in contemplation, Jiang Chuchu found herself at odds with her thoughts. When she sought out Gu Changge, she hadn’t weighed such heavy considerations. In her mind, it was simple; she longed for his company and protection.

However, upon reaching his presence, she was met with indifference. Gu Changge seemed oblivious to her desires, even questioning her purpose for seeking him out. This realization left Jiang Chuchu feeling unsettled and overlooked.

“Although you did that kind of thing to me at the time, I know that I brought it on myself, and I don’t blame you anymore.”

“Even if you killed the human ancestor, I know it’s not up to you. After all, your identity is destined to be on the opposite side of the human ancestor. Either he will die or you will die.”

After collecting herself, Jiang Chuchu took a deep breath, steadying her emotions. Her countenance regained its composure as she focused intently on Gu Changge, her voice soft, as if she were attempting to elucidate her thoughts to him.

But before she could utter a word, Gu Changge gestured dismissively, his smile betraying a hint of amusement. “You’re overthinking it. I’m not as virtuous as you believe. Everything I do serves a purpose.”

Jiang Chuchu regarded him with a skeptical gaze, a subtle hint of betrayal evident in her expression. “You’re saying I shouldn’t trust you as much?”

Undeterred, she pressed on, seeking answers. “Then why did you rescue me in the Land of Absolute Heavenly Extinction? Why go to such lengths to avert disaster?”

Gu Changge leisurely sipped his tea, his demeanor composed. “Do I owe you an explanation for my actions?”

“Gu Changge, why can’t you just be honest?” Jiang Chuchu’s frustration bubbled to the surface, sensing his evasiveness and refusal to acknowledge the truth. It seemed he was more concerned with upholding appearances than providing genuine explanations.

Silently, Gu Changge continued to drink his tea, offering no rebuttal.

Undeterred, Jiang Chuchu pressed forward, her words more direct this time. From their initial encounter to her recent captivity, she recounted every interaction, every event, attempting to decipher Gu Changge’s motives. In her narrative lay her interpretation of his actions, a reflection of her own idealized perceptions.

Yet, even as she spoke, Gu Changge remained unmoved. Though tempted to interject and dismiss her assertions, he refrained. Jiang Chuchu’s conjectures held no sway over him; his intentions were his own.

“Is that so?” Gu Changge’s interest piqued as he listened, but as Jiang Chuchu delved further into the past, a peculiar smile crept across his face. It seemed he was discovering facets of himself he hadn’t previously recognized. He had always considered himself neither wholly good nor inherently evil, his actions dictated by motives beyond the realm of conventional morality.

Reflecting on his interactions with Jiang Chuchu, Gu Changge found himself surprised by the depth of her misunderstanding. What began as a deliberate ambiguity on his part had evolved into a genuine bond, with Jiang Chuchu unwittingly aiding him in his endeavors.

Jiang Chuchu, too, seemed to find solace in their conversation, releasing a burden she had long carried. Her countenance brightened, her eyes alight with newfound clarity.

Curious, Gu Changge inquired, “What were you thinking?”

Recalling their past exchange, Jiang Chuchu replied earnestly, “When you dissuaded me from suicide, I began to reconsider…”

Gu Changge chuckled lightly, his tone tinged with sarcasm. “Do you truly take my words to heart?”

Unperturbed by his jest, Jiang Chuchu met his gaze steadily. “I remember your question—whether I intended to dedicate my life to the Human Ancestor Hall.”

Gu Changge’s memory was jogged. “Ah, yes, I did pose such a question, didn’t I?”

“I’ve given this considerable thought. With the demise of the Human Ancestor at your hands, only you and I know the truth. Yet, the Human Ancestor Hall cannot function without its leader capable of confronting the Absolute Heavenly Extinction,” Jiang Chuchu spoke with an unusual calmness. It was a stark contrast to her initial resistance when she first learned of Gu Changge’s plans; now, she broached the topic willingly.

Gu Changge arched an eyebrow, taken aback by Jiang Chuchu’s sudden mention of the matter. Though he anticipated her eventual agreement, her timing caught him off guard.

“You propose to have someone impersonate the Human Ancestor?” he inquired.

“No,” Jiang Chuchu met his gaze squarely, her resolve unyielding. “I mean for you to assume the role of the Human Ancestor.”

Her boldness momentarily surprised Gu Changge, his gaze piercing yet understanding. Sensing her discomfort under his scrutiny, Jiang Chuchu averted her eyes and lowered her voice.

“This way, no one will suspect your association with the inheritor of demonic arts.”

“Jiang Chuchu, do you comprehend the implications of your suggestion?” Gu Changge’s tone softened, his surprise evident. “By doing so, you would essentially betray your sect and align yourself with me. Are you truly willing to take such a step?”

Gu Changge’s unexpected tenderness belied his earlier skepticism, revealing a hint of vulnerability.

“It’s to be expected. I should have seen this day coming long ago,” Jiang Chuchu remarked, her gaze steady as she observed Gu Changge’s expression. There was no trace of regret or hesitation on her face; she had already pondered over these eventualities extensively.

Her visit to Gu Changge today merely served to clarify these matters. Regardless, she understood that this day was inevitable.

“Jiang Chuchu, you’re truly naive. By doing this, you’re tying yourself to me indefinitely,” Gu Changge remarked, his tone devoid of any notable emotional shift, though his words carried a hint of resignation.

Unfazed, Jiang Chuchu’s demeanor remained placid. “I don’t mind. I simply wish to live for myself, to make my own choices.”

There was a tranquility about her, a sense of acceptance.

But then, a flicker of hope glimmered in her eyes as she gazed at Gu Changge, subtly implying her desires. “From now on, we’re in this together, like grasshoppers on the same rope.”

In essence, she wanted Gu Changge to cease his mistreatment and to care for her. However, her reserved nature made it difficult for her to voice such sentiments outright.

Gu Changge’s smile was understanding, tinged with a touch of pity, as if he comprehended her unspoken plea. “Indeed, like grasshoppers on the same rope.”

He reached out, gently tucking stray strands of hair behind her ears before enfolding her in his embrace. But Jiang Chuchu swiftly extricated herself from his arms, fleeing the palace as if driven by fear, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. She dared not linger, wary of the prying eyes of other disciples who might detect her discomposure.

The notion of Gu Changge assuming the mantle of the Human Ancestor had crossed his mind before, but he had shelved it, considering the difficulty of concealing the truth from Jiang Chuchu and Wang Ziji. However, now that Jiang Chuchu had pledged her cooperation, the path forward seemed clearer.

With Jiang Chuchu’s support, the task would be far simpler. As the Human Ancestor, he would command the unwavering loyalty of the temple’s disciples, bolstering his authority and facilitating his grand designs. In the vast expanse of the Upper Realm, who would dare oppose him? With the guise of the Human Ancestor, Gu Changge could cloak his actions in the garb of righteousness, presenting any dissent as a challenge to the welfare of the people.

The Human Ancestor’s establishment of the temple had been strategic, designed to consolidate unparalleled power across his reincarnations and expedite his ascent to the pinnacle of authority.

Now, everything that the Human Ancestor had painstakingly managed would fall into Gu Changge’s hands effortlessly.

Upon returning to her cavern, Jiang Chuchu found Wang Ziji awaiting her, her expression keen.

“You went to see Gu Changge,” Wang Ziji stated, her tone more declarative than inquisitive, her eyes gleaming with a hint of anticipation.

Observing Jiang Chuchu closely, Wang Ziji discerned the telltale joy in her gaze. There was no need for probing questions; Wang Ziji knew instinctively what Jiang Chuchu had done. Jiang Chuchu rarely ventured outside her cavern except for cultivation, so her sudden departure could only mean one thing.

Wang Ziji couldn’t help but feel a twinge of frustration. She had cautioned Jiang Chuchu against being too forthcoming, advising her to adopt an aloof demeanor. Yet, Jiang Chuchu had disregarded her counsel, rushing off to meet Gu Changge at the first opportunity.

Upon learning of Gu Changge’s return to the True Immortal Academy, Jiang Chuchu had been eager to seek him out. The joy now evident in her eyes suggested that Gu Changge had spoken kindly to her.

This revelation left Wang Ziji at a loss for words. Just days ago, Jiang Chuchu had been embroiled in a bitter feud with Gu Changge, and now she seemed positively elated.

“Leave me alone,” Jiang Chuchu snapped at Wang Ziji, her tone devoid of courtesy, a coldness seeping into her words.

“What are you doing in my cavern?” she demanded, her demeanor bristling with hostility.

“Of course, I came to find you,” Wang Ziji replied, her smile masking a hint of competitiveness.

In the past, such a remark would have likely ignited a confrontation between them. But today, Jiang Chuchu remained remarkably composed. She arched an eyebrow, her demeanor cool as she countered, “Is it Jiang Chuchu’s restraint that’s surprising you? Or do you think I deserve to be taken in by Gu Changge? Whose fault is it?”

Wang Ziji’s smile faltered momentarily, caught off guard by Jiang Chuchu’s calm response. “Who said anything about being in a hurry? I’m just concerned about you. I don’t want to see you deceived by that scoundrel,” she retorted.

Jiang Chuchu shook her head faintly. “You needn’t worry about such matters. However, there’s something I need to tell you.”

Despite her indifference towards the Human Ancestor Hall, Wang Ziji held the position of holy maiden, making it necessary for Jiang Chuchu to inform her of recent developments.

“What’s the matter? Is there news about the reincarnation of the Human Ancestor?” Wang Ziji’s smile was knowing, as if she had anticipated this development. “Not that I’m interested in seeking out the reincarnation of the Human Ancestor. But if it happens to cross my path, so be it.”

Jiang Chuchu nodded, her voice steady as she disclosed, “The reincarnation of the Human Ancestor is Gu Changge.”

“What?” Wang Ziji’s shock was palpable, her eyes widening in disbelief. How could Gu Changge, whom she deemed unsavory, be the reincarnation of the Human Ancestor? Yet, upon closer examination, no one in the current generation better embodied the qualities associated with the Human Ancestor than Gu Changge. His unparalleled talent, formidable strength, daunting background, and unique abilities all seemed to align with the image of the Human Ancestor.

However, despite the apparent fit, Wang Ziji couldn’t shake the feeling that something was amiss. Suspicion clouded her gaze as she regarded Jiang Chuchu. “Are you certain this isn’t something Gu Changge instructed you to relay to me?”

She couldn’t shake the notion that Gu Changge was orchestrating a scheme to pose as the reincarnation of the Human Ancestor. After all, prior to this revelation, she had heard no whispers regarding the reincarnation. Jiang Chuchu’s sudden proclamation after meeting with Gu Changge only heightened her skepticism. Wang Ziji’s instinctive response was to question the authenticity of Jiang Chuchu’s claim.

“No,” Jiang Chuchu replied calmly, shaking her head. “There’s no need to search for the reincarnation of the Human Ancestor anymore. Gu Changge possessing the Nirvana Green Lotus body is evidence enough.”

“Nirvana Green Lotus body?” Wang Ziji’s suspicion lingered, despite her knowledge of the rare divine object formed from the maturation of the Nirvana Green Lotus. The repeated reincarnations of the Human Ancestor had been linked to this very item.

Yet, despite the logical connection, Wang Ziji couldn’t shake the feeling of unease. According to the annals of the Human Ancestor Hall and the prevailing rumors surrounding the Human Ancestor, he was depicted as a formidable figure. How could someone as indifferent and unfeeling as Gu Changge possibly be linked to such a revered entity?

“Jiang Chuchu, are you certain you’re not being deceived by Gu Changge?” Wang Ziji’s gaze bore into her, searching for any sign of deceit.

“Do you truly believe I’m capable of such deception?” Jiang Chuchu’s response was steady, her demeanor unwavering.

Wang Ziji fell silent, reassured by Jiang Chuchu’s steadfast integrity. Her doubts lay not with Jiang Chuchu, but with Gu Changge.

“Could it be that Gu Changge plans to eliminate the reincarnation of the Human Ancestor? Is he plotting to take his place?” Wang Ziji mused aloud, her words tinged with uncertainty. Though she voiced the notion casually, her mind couldn’t help but entertain the possibility.

Jiang Chuchu’s heart skipped a beat, though she forced herself to maintain a composed exterior, hiding any hint of unease.

“Alright, if you say Gu Changge is the reincarnation of the Human Ancestor, then so be it. I don’t harbor any animosity towards him anyway. If anyone were to become the Human Ancestor, I’d much prefer it to be Gu Changge,” Wang Ziji remarked casually as she exited the cave. Though she sensed that the situation was more complex than it seemed, she couldn’t be bothered to dwell on it further.

Though Wang Ziji held an interest in Gu Changge, it was clear to her now that he shared a close bond with Jiang Chuchu. Was she merely trying to insert herself into their relationship? Yet, she realized that Gu Changge paid little heed to Jiang Chuchu. Someone of his caliber had no need for such interventions.

Such thoughts left Wang Ziji feeling inexplicably irritable. Unconsciously, she retrieved a crystal-clear jade pendant from her sleeve—a token gifted to her by Gu Changge outside the Land of Absolute Heavenly Extinction. He had promised that she could seek his aid should trouble arise.

“Utterly despicable scoundrel…” Wang Ziji muttered under her breath, contemplating discarding the pendant altogether. However, after a moment’s hesitation, she sighed softly. She couldn’t bring herself to do it.