I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 393
Chapter 393: The assassination plan of the son of the demon emperor, a big man from the upper realm
The demon world sprawled, vast and boundless. Ages past, it was split into nine domains, each under the sway of a distinct demon emperor. Yet, after six millennia of tumult, a rare unity embraced the demon realm. Now, these nine great domains bowed to Empress Xi Yao, fostering peace with rare conflicts. Save for remnants of the five emperors, scant opposition dared challenge Empress Xi Yao’s reign. Still, amidst this era, many formidable demons persisted, aligning and marshaling their forces, seeking to topple Empress Xi Yao’s rule, igniting conflicts across various fronts.
Among these, the Xuan Yang Domain stood prominent—a realm once governed by the Xuan Yang Demon Emperor.
The terrain sprawled vast and boundless, with lush green mountains and towering sacred peaks, presenting a magnificent sight. Yet, it had been amalgamated into the Middle Heavenly domain of the demon world. Within this realm dwelled various ethnic groups, boasting a sizable population and distinguished backgrounds. Notably, it housed the Black-and-White Academy of the demon world.
Six millennia ago, Empress Xi Yao founded the Black and White Academy. Chronicled within its tomes were teachings of the human way, disseminating myriad cultivation methods to creatures of the monster clans, offering them a glimpse of the immortal path. Prior to this, cultivation methods had been closely guarded by individual clans, leaving many newly awakened demonkind without access to inheritance, resigned to lives of ignorance. Despite their longevity, their cultivation remained low, often falling prey to other ethnic groups who enslaved them for medicinal refinement, a fate steeped in misery.
Empress Xi Yao’s actions stirred controversy among the major ethnic groups of the demon world, challenging their established interests.
The major ethnic groups naturally resisted relinquishing their cultivation methods. Yet, under Empress Xi Yao’s unyielding tactics, they reluctantly acquiesced. Thus, the Black and White Academy rose as a beacon of hope in the demon world, revered by countless creatures yearning to tread the immortal path. Over the span of 6,000 years, its influence swelled, spanning from the heavens above to the towns in all eight directions.
Many who studied in the academy became staunch supporters of Empress Xi Yao, serving as her vanguard in quelling chaos and subduing the remnants of the five emperors.
“Have you heard? There’s talk of a significant figure arriving in the demon world. Her Majesty the Queen is taking extraordinary measures, even dusting off the Temple of Picking Stars, dormant for over 6,000 years, for their temporary residence.”
“Indeed, the rumors are stirring. This figure from the upper realm holds immense status and an enigmatic background.”
“Compare it to the last visit by an immortal sect leader; Her Majesty’s attention speaks volumes…”
Before the gate of the Black and White Academy stood a majestic ancient mountain gate, evoking a sense of primordial desolation and longevity, as if the first gate erected since the dawn of creation.
Upon the mountain gate’s surface, wisps of chaotic mist cascaded, while countless rays of light intertwined, forming black and white characters that seemed to mirror the heavens above. In the distance, denizens of the demon world absorbed the celestial energies, devouring sun, moon, and starlight in their cultivation endeavors.
Nearby, a group of towering young men and women, radiating divine brilliance, engaged in earnest discussion, their expressions alternating between shock and curiosity. Having received word from their influential families, they were aware of the imminent arrival of a significant figure from the upper realm. Empress Xi Yao’s unprecedented attention to this event, preparing the Temple of Picking Stars for the visitor’s reception, was beyond belief—something unheard of in 6,000 years.
As they conversed, a young demon man approached from the mountain gate, adorned in a regal blue robe, exuding an air of indifferent confidence. Behind him trailed numerous young creatures, predominantly beautiful women, with him clearly at the helm.
Upon spotting him, the conversing men and women grew slightly apprehensive, their words tapering off into silence. Surprised by their reaction, the man in blue regarded them with mild astonishment before offering a faint smile and continuing into the mountain gate on his own.
“Ya’er, what do you know about the imminent visitor from the upper realm?” Inside the mountain gate, the man in blue turned to a woman with a strikingly beautiful face and an elegant figure trailing behind him, his curiosity piqued by the snippets of conversation he overheard earlier.
“Master Qi, I’ve only heard vague rumors about the visitor’s mysterious and fearsome identity. Her Majesty the Queen hasn’t disclosed any details, merely summoning civil and military officials to the Star Picking Temple today to prepare for their arrival,” Ya’er responded, relaying the information she had gleaned in detail. Given her father’s status as a prominent official in the demon world, she was privy to such matters.
Reflecting on Ya’er’s words, a pensive expression crossed Master Qi’s face as he contemplated the implications.
“Indeed…” Master Qi mused, his brows furrowing with concern as he entered the academy, gathering everyone back to his cavern, intent on seeking further clarification.
Beneath the veneer of peace, the demon world simmered with hidden undercurrents, poised to erupt at any moment. With Master Qi’s departure, the young men and women before the mountain gate withdrew their gazes, their expressions tinged with apprehension.
“Jun Fan, it’s him! Just as we suspected, his cultivation is beyond measure, just as the rumors foretold.”
“They say he’s the pinnacle of strength in the Black and White Academy. Aside from Senior Sister Song, few can match him. And rumors suggest his relationship with Senior Sister Song runs deep, bound by mutual respect…”
Their conversation dripped with envy and admiration, laden with unspoken emotions.
In their conversation, the Senior Sister Song they mentioned was none other than the esteemed daughter of the Grand Master of the Demon Realm, Song Youwei. Renowned for her beauty and gentle, magnanimous demeanor, despite her noble lineage and adoration from countless admirers, she bore no trace of arrogance, embodying the epitome of grace. Among the younger generation of the Black and White Academy, she stood as the quintessential goddess in everyone’s hearts.
The Master of the Demon World, a figure who had mentored Empress Xi Yao since childhood, commanded immense respect, his authority rivaling that of ten thousand individuals combined. However, despite his influence, Empress Xi Yao’s resolute decisions rarely wavered, leaving little room for persuasion from even the Demon Master himself.
Empress Xi Yao held high hopes for Song Youwei, entrusting her with significant responsibilities upon her completion of studies at the Black and White Academy. Such was her importance that even some elders of the academy dared not treat her as a mere disciple.
The man in blue, Jun Fan, who had just arrived, stood out as the most exceptional disciple the Black and White Academy had seen in recent years. With remarkable talent and formidable cultivation prowess, despite only half a year in attendance, he had already bested numerous disciples from older generations.
Rumors swirled about Jun Fan, with some claiming he was the third son of the King of Peace and Chaos, emerging from seclusion after years spent hidden in the snow, maintaining a discreet profile until now. While the details varied, they all underscored Jun Fan’s enigmatic background and hinted at his extraordinary identity.
Regardless of the version, Jun Fan’s pedigree, background, and cultivation prowess set him apart, making him the subject of admiration among many young female disciples. Tall and handsome, he commanded attention wherever he went.
As the conversation flowed, Master Qi returned to his cavern, dismissing the others. Jun Fan’s thoughts drifted to the sudden arrival from the upper realm, pondering whether it related to Uncle Bai’s incident.
Musing softly, Jun Fan’s eyes betrayed a hint of contemplation. In both his past and present lives, he went by the name Jun Bufan, but in this incarnation, to avoid detection, he adopted the name Jun Fan.
When Empress Xi Yao launched a widespread search for someone named Jun Bufan, Jun Fan wasted no time in consulting his mother about changing his name.
As the King of Peace and Chaos, Jun Fan’s father held a position of high esteem in Empress Xi Yao’s eyes. Aware of the potential repercussions, he was keen to safeguard his son’s future from being tarnished by this trivial matter.
Thus, Jun Bufan opted to change his name to Jun Fan, a decision that would, logically, evade Empress Xi Yao’s search efforts. Conveniently, his father oversaw this change.
From his father’s perspective, Jun Bufan’s name selection had been an act of excitement, hoping his son would emulate the brilliance of that arrogant genius from six millennia past. Little did he anticipate Empress Xi Yao’s search for someone bearing the same name and surname after all these years.
While Jun Fan may not have been highly esteemed by his father, the paternal bond remained strong. How could he possibly be connected to the son of Demon Emperor Xuan Yang from six thousand years prior?
Relying on his father’s connections in this life, Jun Fan gradually ascended to prominence, garnering fame throughout the Xuan Yang domain of the demon world. After more than a decade hidden in obscurity, his emergence reverberated across the realm, his actions hailed and emulated by countless young aspirants.
With the culmination of his past life’s cultivation experience and the myriad inheritances acquired in this incarnation, Jun Fan swiftly closed the gap with his peers, earning a coveted place in the Black-and-White School as one of its most illustrious members. Meanwhile, he covertly sought out the caches left by his father, the Xuan Yang Demon Emperor, integrating these forces into his own.
Under his command lay many powerful monsters with profound cultivation, biding their time in the shadows, awaiting the day when Jun Fan would spread his wings and exact vengeance upon Empress Xi Yao.
“According to the information my father left behind, he once arranged for an old friend to deliver something to me. I trust this friend will soon seek me out,” Jun Fan murmured, contemplating the possible connection between the arrival of the upper realm dignitary and his father’s arrangement.
With a determined gleam in his eyes, Jun Fan formulated his plans. Now, he operated in the shadows, while Empress Xi Yao remained in the spotlight.
Unbeknownst to Empress Xi Yao, Jun Fan schemed in the shadows, quietly amassing strength for his impending revenge—a perfect opportunity lying before him.
“Though my current cultivation base appears as that of a mere King of Gods, the inheritance crystallization bestowed upon me by my late father has elevated me to the sacred realm. This, among others, is one of my trump cards,” Jun Fan mused, his eyes gleaming with determination.
Blessed with the cultivation experience of his previous life, Jun Fan’s progress in this incarnation flowed seamlessly, as if the heavens themselves favored him. With each passing period, he effortlessly broke through realms, aided by the treasures left behind in his Sea of Consciousness World by his father and emperor—divine pills, sacred medicines, techniques, and more, all propelling his cultivation to new heights.
In a remarkably short span, he ascended to the sacred realm, though the pace of his advancement slowed compared to before. Yet, Jun Fan found contentment in his achievements, surpassing the capabilities of his past self at a similar age.
“In seven days, the Banquet of Geniuses at the Black and White Academy will commence. Empress Xi Yao will undoubtedly grace the event with her presence, rewarding numerous prodigies with royal wine. This shall be my opportunity,” Jun Fan thought, a cold glint of determination flickering in his eyes.
Memories of his childhood sweetheart, once beloved but ultimately betraying him with poisoned wine, ignited a fierce flame of vengeance within Jun Fan’s heart. The hatred he bore was unforgettable, fueling his resolve to settle the score.
In the next life, he would make Xi Yao regret what she had done, reveal her hypocritical face, and make her repay the pain. So, she decided to assassinate Xi Yao at the Banquet of the Geniuses seven days later.
He had been planning this for a long time, bringing many of his subordinates quietly. Now they were hiding around the Black and White Academy, waiting for his command at any time.
“In order to be safe, we have to figure out the identity of the mysterious figure. Is he on Xi Yao’s side, or could he be a backup arranged by my father?” Jun Fan’s eyes were full of coldness before gradually calming.
He took something out of his pocket: a lavender brush with hollow marks on its body, like flawless immortal jade, round and natural. As he touched the restriction on the brush, strands of lavender light flashed across the void and finally disappeared.
After doing this, Jun Fan waited quietly in the cave. Not long after, there was a sound of footsteps outside. Jun Fan looked pleased, got up quickly, and hurried to greet the newcomer.
“Is there a problem?” a cold voice asked.
A tall and beautiful woman appeared, wearing a long purple dress. Her skin was delicate and flawless, and her hair was soft and luminous. She was holding a lavender brush identical to the one in Jun Fan’s hand.
“Qingzhu, you are finally here.” Seeing the woman in the purple dress, Jun Fan smiled.
The woman named Qingzhu sighed slightly at his words, “You have something to ask me, so how could I not come?”
“Sit,” Jun Fan offered, still smiling.
However, Qingzhu shook her head. “No need. If you have something to discuss, just tell me. Her Majesty the Queen is in need of manpower. If I hadn’t made an excuse, it would have been difficult to get away to see you.”
“Is Xi Yao very busy receiving that important guest?” Jun Fan frowned.
Qingzhu nodded. “After all, it’s a major event related to the demon world.”
Jun Fan’s eyes flashed brightly before he said directly, “Actually, the reason I called you this time was to ask about this guest. Who is he?”
As the closest female official around Xi Yao, Qingzhu must know things that many others do not.
Hearing this, Qingzhu glanced at him and sighed softly. “I mentioned it to you before…”
“The young master of the Ancient Immortal Gu family, Gu Changge? Could it be him?” Jun Fan was shocked. “Why did he suddenly come to the demon world?”
Some time ago, Qingzhu had indeed told him about this.
Empress Xi Yao once exchanged letters with Gu Changge and had many interactions. This made Jun Fan feel a little uncomfortable. After all, Xi Yao was once his fiancée, despite her plan to poison him. But for over 6,000 years, he had never heard of any other man besides her. This actually sparked a bit of fantasy in Jun Fan, making him want to ask Xi Yao in person if she had ever held feelings for another. Did she ever think of him?
But until recently, he learned that Xi Yao and Gu Changge had known each other at some point, often communicating through letters. This revelation left him deeply unsettled. In terms of age, Xi Yao was over 6,000 years older than Gu Changge, who was at most a junior.
“I don’t know what the queen thinks either. As for why Gu Changge came to the demon world, I’m clueless,” Qingzhu admitted, sharing his confusion.
How noble Gu Changge’s identity was, and the rumors about him in the upper world were naturally known in the demon world.
In terms of strength and background, Gu Changge could no longer be regarded as part of the younger generation.
“Jun Fan, you can handle it yourself. I’ll take my leave. If the queen discovers my absence, I’ll face punishment,” Qingzhu announced before departing, leaving Jun Fan alone in the cave, his brow furrowed as he paced.
Ultimately, he could only sigh deeply, sensing that the situation was becoming increasingly complicated.
“However, Xi Yao doesn’t know that the female official Qingzhu by her side is actually with me,” Jun Fan mused, feeling a sense of relief as he calmed down.
Nearly everyone in the demon world knew about Empress Xi Yao’s four most trusted and close female officials: Mei, Lan, Zhu, and Ju.
Some time ago, when Jun Fan ventured into a perilous area in the demon world to cultivate and search for his father’s successor, he encountered Qingzhu. She had been sent by Empress Xi Yao to retrieve something, but found herself in a life-threatening situation.
Unable to stand idly by, Jun Fan intervened and saved her. Though it was a clichéd hero-saving-the-beauty scenario, it had an unexpected impact on someone like Qingzhu, who had rarely encountered men.
Jun Fan possessed eloquence, extraordinary demeanor, formidable cultivation, and a dignified appearance. His rescue only solidified Qingzhu’s realization that serving the ruthless Empress Xi Yao wasn’t worth it. Under Xi Yao’s rule, not only did she lack freedom, but any failure to meet the empress’s expectations resulted in severe punishment.
Initially, Qing Zhu had been resolute in her convictions. However, upon returning to the palace and failing to meet Empress Xi Yao’s expectations, she endured months of punishment and confinement. Eventually, her resolve began to waver.
As she and Jun Fan grew closer over time, developing a mutual fondness, she found herself agreeing to aid him as an informant within Empress Xi Yao’s inner circle. This decision allowed Jun Fan to gather valuable information about the empress’s activities, laying the groundwork for his plan to assassinate her.
Lost in thought, Jun Fan’s mind conjured another gentle presence, prompting a slight smile. “You should ask Ya Wei about this,” he murmured to himself. “She’s quite astute; perhaps she knows something…”
Meanwhile, in the Imperial Palace of the Demon Realm, a vibrant scene unfolded. Lanterns illuminated the palace grounds, casting a festive glow amidst lingering mists.
The towering palace structures resembled ancient sky towers, commanding reverence from all who beheld them, whether civil officials, military leaders, or venerable monsters of high cultivation.
Gathered with their families, they marveled at the palace’s grandeur, their expressions ranging from awe to envy to deep emotion.
The palace itself exuded magnificence, veiled in swirling chaotic mists and suffused with an ethereal, immortal aura.
On the banquet tables, melons, fruits, wine, and meats glistened enticingly, offering rare delicacies unseen for hundreds of thousands of years. The potent rhythms and energies emanating from these offerings held the potential to catalyze breakthroughs in cultivation and inspire epiphanies.
The maids attending the banquet were equally stunning, adorned in flowing robes and displaying graceful movements as they sang, danced, and charmed with their soft voices.
Yet, those seated within the palace were no ordinary beings; they were esteemed figures in the demon world, wielding power and holding the favor of Empress Xi Yao. Among them were the masters of the demon world and the arbiters of peace and chaos.
At the head of the gathering sat a stunning woman adorned in phoenix attire, her blue silk cascading luxuriously around her. There was a regal air about her, emphasized by the slight strangeness of the light red makeup between her brows, adding a clear and charming allure to her demeanor.
Beside her sat a man in black, his handsome face complemented by calm, deep eyes. His sleeves were embroidered with depictions of mountains, rivers, stars, the sun, and the moon, as though they might manifest at any moment. This was Gu Changge, accompanied by Jiang Luoshen.
As the princess of the Supreme God Clan, Jiang Luoshen’s presence alone was enough to command deference from all the women in attendance.
“I apologize for the trouble, Empress Xi Yao, in arranging such a grand reception for Changge,” Gu Changge said with a smile, raising his glass.
Empress Xi Yao returned the smile, lifting her own glass. “Young Master Changge’s presence is a welcome addition to the demon world,” she replied before they both drank.
Witnessing this exchange, many of the prominent figures in the demon world felt a surge of emotion. None had anticipated the arrival of Gu Changge, the young master of the Ancient Immortal Gu family.
In terms of both status and strength, it was fitting for Gu Changge and Empress Xi Yao to share the same seat. Such a display of camaraderie and respect was unprecedented, even among the most esteemed sect leaders.
This unexpected turn of events left them all astounded.
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