I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 396
Chapter 396: Such perfection makes people feel unreal, what do you want from her?
The black jade chariot halted atop the sacred mountain, its presence commanding attention. Behind it, the knights and armies dispersed in all directions, their vigilant gazes scanning the surroundings, radiating an impressive aura. This was Empress Xi Yao’s elite force, renowned for their prowess in battles across the realm, their imposing presence resembling an unstoppable force.
“The Queen has arrived!”
“She’s even brought the Guards. It appears Her Majesty is taking no chances at this Genius Banquet.”
In the demon world, all eyes were drawn to her with a mix of awe, reverence, admiration, and fear. Empress Xi Yao rarely ventured from the palace, her true visage seen by few. Despite issuing decrees through her officials, her appearance was a subject of great curiosity.
Rumors painted her as the most beautiful woman in the demon world for over 6,000 years, despite the disrespect such claims implied. Yet, they held undeniable allure for ordinary citizens.
At the mountain’s base, all the geniuses gazed up at the black jade chariot perched amidst the clouds. A sense of awe and respect filled their hearts, even sparking ambitions in some, though they remained concealed for now.
For over 6,000 years, no man had ever approached Her Majesty the Queen. Even her closest confidants were exclusively women. The notion of anyone daring to entertain thoughts beyond reverence for the powerful monarch who ruled the demon world in all her glory seemed inconceivable.
Yet, as they gathered for today’s Genius Banquet, the prospect of shining in the Queen’s presence spurred them on, igniting their ambition and fervor.
“Xi Yao, did you ever imagine our first encounter in 6,000 years would occur under such circumstances?” Jun Fan, tall and composed amidst the crowd, pondered aloud with a hint of mockery in his tone.
With a clenched fist and a fleeting sneer directed at the black jade chariot above, he swiftly regained his indifferent demeanor.
Atop the sacred mountain, enveloped in ethereal clouds and mist, the scene resembled a mystical realm, vast and breathtaking.
Soon, the four female officials of Queen Xi Yao—Qingzhu, Qingmei, Qingju, and Qinglan—hurried to the forefront of the chariot. Qingzhu, with an air of submission, delicately raised the curtain of the black jade chariot with her jade-like hands.
In the next moment, Queen Xi Yao, draped in a resplendent phoenix robe, emerged from the chariot. Her presence was truly peerless—her midnight blue hair cascaded like silk, her stature tall and elegant, and her features adorned with a touch of crimson between her brows, exuding regal majesty.
However, her countenance remained enigmatic, veiled by an ethereal mist, her eyes distant and indifferent, radiating dignity and aloofness.
“Please, Young Master Changge,” she uttered, her tone shifting from cold to gentle, akin to the thawing of snow, embodying a different kind of grace.
As her words hung in the air, a chuckle resonated, and a figure cloaked in black stepped forth from the chariot. His every movement carried an air of transcendence, as if the universe itself revolved around him. Even the strands of his hair shimmered with a divine glow, his aura akin to the abyss—unfathomable and awe-inspiring, causing many in the demon world to avert their gaze in reverence and shock.
“Young Master Changge…in the same chariot as Her Majesty the Queen.”
This revelation stirred a subtle shift in the expressions of many prominent figures in the demon world. The significance of sharing a chariot with the Queen couldn’t be overstated. While they understood that the interior of the chariot was not bound by its external appearance and was likely more expansive, the symbolism of such proximity was profound.
Previously, even the closest female officials to Empress Xi Yao weren’t granted such privilege, let alone accompanying a young man—especially in the presence of distinguished individuals and representatives from across the Demon Race.
Yet, upon reflecting on Gu Changge’s status and power, their bitter smiles betrayed their acknowledgment that, upon closer examination, such an arrangement wasn’t entirely unfathomable.
It was merely a departure from the Queen’s usual aloof demeanor towards strangers that left them stunned at this unexpected sight.
While the demon world was abuzz with shock and disbelief, Jun Fan’s countenance darkened slightly at the sight before him. Despite his adept masking of emotions, a chill crept between his brows, revealing his inner turmoil. He hadn’t anticipated encountering Xi Yao after 6,000 years, let alone witnessing her proximity to another man. Though devoid of intimacy, the scene unsettled him deeply.
The desire for revenge warred within him, yet the realization that she was still his fiancée stung—how could she be so closely acquainted with another man? Yet, Jun Fan’s complex persona swiftly reasserted itself, his expression returning to its customary neutrality without a hint of disturbance.
Observing Jun Fan’s reaction from a distance, Song Youwei, with a quizzical expression, approached him with graceful steps, her skirts billowing gently around her.
“Brother Jun Fan,” she greeted him with a smile.
Jun Fan returned her smile. “You Wei.”
“I expected you to return to the Black and White Academy by now, but here you are at the Demon Master’s mansion. Is there something you wish to discuss with me?” Song Youwei inquired, her tone affable and unassuming, her demeanor poised and natural, as if she engaged with everyone in this manner.
Jun Fan smiled and remarked, “I had intended to inquire about the recent developments in the upper realm, but it seems unnecessary now…”
His gaze drifted towards the young man seated atop the sacred mountain, engaged in lively conversation with Empress Xi Yao, resembling a deity gracing the mortal realm.
Song Youwei’s surprise was evident, and she candidly responded, “So, Brother Jun Fan was curious about young master Changge. Although I’ve only met him once, my initial impression was exceptionally favorable—he embodies perfection to such an extent that it feels surreal.”
Jun Fan couldn’t help but feel a pang of discomfort at her words. Nevertheless, he maintained a casual demeanor and replied, “Is that so? It’s rare to hear such high praise from you.”
He recalled seeking Song Youwei’s opinion of himself in the past, and while her evaluation had been positive, it paled in comparison to her admiration for Gu Changge. The comparison left him feeling somewhat diminished.
Song Youwei’s lips curved into a smile as she added, “Indeed, I’ve never encountered such flawless perfection before. It’s almost as if he’s a reflection in a mirror—too ideal to be real.”
Jun Fan nodded, opting not to dwell further on the matter. Regardless, even with Gu Changge standing beside Empress Xi Yao today, his resolve to assassinate her remained unwavering.
In the realm of demons, Gu Changge was merely an outsider. If he refrained from interference, matters would proceed smoothly. However, should Gu Changge choose to intervene, Jun Fan welcomed the added challenge. Moreover, any harm befalling Gu Changge in the demon world would squarely rest on Empress Xi Yao’s shoulders—a burden she would struggle to bear.
Later, Jun Fan and Song Youwei resumed their conversation, with Song Youwei inquiring about her father’s entourage for the occasion. Their rapport was evident, akin to that of confidants and friends. Having shared experiences and even competed against each other in the black-and-white academy, their familiarity was such that they seemed inseparable.
Given their similar backgrounds, appearances, and cultivation levels, many assumed they shared a close bond. However, Jun Fan was keenly aware that Song Youwei treated everyone with the same warmth and generosity, maintaining a respectful distance.
Though Jun Fan harbored a fondness for Song Youwei, he remained uncertain about her feelings towards him.
Song Youwei’s response to his inquiries dispelled any doubts, prompting Jun Fan to inwardly breathe a sigh of relief.
“Indeed? That’s reassuring,” he murmured, already contemplating the opportunities this gathering presented for himself and his allies—a rare chance that they couldn’t afford to overlook.
“I wonder,” Empress Xi Yao queried, gesturing towards the formidable young talents below, as she sat beside Gu Changge atop the sacred mountain, “does young master Changge believe that the geniuses of my demon world pale in comparison to those of the upper realm?”
She wore a knowing smile, fully aware that in terms of both talent and background, the geniuses of the demon world couldn’t hope to match the haughty elites of the upper realm.
Yet, she was curious to glean Gu Changge’s perspective—the foremost prodigy of the upper realm—on the caliber of the demon world’s youth.
Gu Changge’s smile was warm as he responded, his gaze drifting over the impressive figures below. “In Changge’s estimation, the disparity between the geniuses of the demon world and those of the upper realm lies primarily in their cultivation environments. Their surroundings shape their perspectives and the individuals they interact with… Cultivation-wise, these demon world talents might rank below the median or even lower in the upper realm.”
Empress Xi Yao nodded in contemplation at his words. She found no offense in Gu Changge’s frank assessment; rather, she acknowledged its veracity.
Indeed, how could the fledgling talents of the demon world hope to measure up to disciples born into Ancient Immortal families and immortal sects of the upper realm?
“That’s why I aspire to transform the environment of the demon world, yet there are always those who oppose progress, content to bask in past glories,” Empress Xi Yao lamented softly, a hint of melancholy creasing her brow.
Gu Changge cast a gentle glance her way, offering reassurance with a smile. “History will be the ultimate judge of right and wrong. With your capabilities as Queen, I have no doubt you can overcome these obstacles.”
“Do you truly have such faith in me?” Queen Xi Yao’s gaze bore into his, her sapphire locks fluttering in the mountain breeze, her features akin to a flawless painting.
Gu Changge’s smile held a tinge of regret as he replied, “Why doubt it? Where there’s a will, there’s a way. In my eyes, you embody that spirit, Your Majesty.”
“Alas, I am but an outsider and can offer no direct assistance in the demon world. Otherwise, I would gladly lend aid to your cause,” he added wistfully.
Empress Xi Yao’s expression flickered briefly, a pang of disappointment tugging at her heart. He understood her plight so intimately, yet his outsider status rendered his assistance impossible.
Observing her reaction, Gu Changge’s smile persisted as he continued, “Yet, you’ve accomplished so much on your own in this vast demon world, akin to navigating a sea of shifting sands. Your achievements command admiration.”
A fleeting twitch danced across Empress Xi Yao’s lips before her composure returned, the curve of her mouth dissipating into the serene mask of regal authority.
“Are you flattering me, Young Master Changge?” Empress Xi Yao inquired with a hint of curiosity, her interest piqued. She had grown weary of the endless flattery and compliments routinely directed her way. Ordinarily, such words spoken by anyone else would result in swift retribution, but when they came from Gu Changge, they elicited a genuine sense of pleasure—an emotion she found perplexing, given her usual disdain for the men around her.
Gu Changge’s response was candid, his smile devoid of pretense. “Flattery? Your Majesty, I rarely indulge in such words unless they serve a greater purpose…”
Empress Xi Yao’s gaze lingered on him, drawn in by his straightforward demeanor. Whether in this moment or during their initial encounter at the True Immortal Academy, his authenticity remained consistent.
“In that case, what plans do you have for me, Young Master Changge?” she inquired, her interest palpable.
Gu Changge’s smile remained unchanged as he replied, “There are but two options: your power or your body. It’s a question that seems straightforward enough.”
Despite his simple response, Empress Xi Yao felt a flutter of unease in her heart, though she maintained her customary composure.
“The Banquet of Geniuses has commenced,” Empress Xi Yao announced, steering the conversation towards the event unfolding below. Her gaze lingered on the array of prodigious talents gathered beneath the sacred mountain, their presence commanding attention.
Gu Changge responded with a smile, allowing the topic to shift without further comment. To him, the banquet was merely a spectacle to behold.
Amidst the sea of geniuses, he discreetly located Jun Bufan’s whereabouts, noting the need for caution. Though keeping a low profile was preferable, Jun Bufan seemed intent on showcasing his formidable talent, likely spurred by his feelings for Song Youwei.
Observing Song Youwei’s approach towards a man clad in blue, a sudden realization dawned upon Gu Changge. With a calculated move, he assessed his luck points. Jun Bufan’s true identity was unveiled in an instant, yet Gu Changge remained unperturbed, electing to play out the scene first.
In the murky waters of the demon world, alliances shifted and motives obscured. Even Empress Xi Yao, in Gu Changge’s eyes, was but a pawn in a larger game. As she engaged in a match against Jun Bufan, unseen forces lurked in the shadows, their gaze fixed upon her every move.
In this intricate game, Empress Xi Yao appeared to hold the advantage, but appearances were deceiving. Even Jun Bufan could effortlessly discern her actions and traces, not to mention the lurking presence of formidable adversaries hidden in the shadows.
The enigmatic disappearance of the former five emperors of the demon world left lingering questions—had they truly met their demise? Gu Changge saw Jun Bufan as a valuable asset, capable of drawing out the elusive figures manipulating events from behind the scenes.
As Gu Changge conversed with Empress Xi Yao, the Banquet of Geniuses beneath the Sacred Mountain unfolded. A myriad of prodigies showcased their extraordinary abilities, wielding supernatural powers and ascending to lofty ranks.
The towering cliff presented a formidable challenge, adorned with intricate patterns and flickering talismans that emanated potent pressure. Those with weaker cultivation struggled to maintain their footing, risking a perilous fall with every step—a mere checkpoint on the journey up the sacred mountain.
Climbing to the summit of the mountain was no simple task—beyond contending with the treacherous terrain, participants had to remain vigilant against potential ambushes from fellow contenders.
Beneath the apex, one hundred and eight white jade stairs awaited, each emanating a kaleidoscope of colorful rays and a palpable aura of dread. Every demon world genius scrambled to ascend, employing diverse tactics and abilities in their quest for victory.
Conflicts erupted frequently among rivals, the violent clashes sending shockwaves rippling in all directions, drawing the attention of onlookers. Such skirmishes were commonplace at the biennial Banquet of Geniuses, claiming numerous young lives over the years.
Even the formidable family forces refrained from intervening, allowing these battles to unfold without interference. Many viewed the banquet as an arena for decisive confrontations, where life and death hung in the balance.
Yet, Gu Changge remained indifferent to such theatrics. As a participant, he found no allure in the predictable spectacle. Though Jun Bufan’s encounters with self-proclaimed demon world supremes sparked temporary chaos, Gu Changge foresaw their brief duration.
In the grand scheme of things, these skirmishes were but fleeting moments amidst the greater tapestry of events.
As the reincarnated son of the demon emperor, Jun Bufan possessed the means and strength to effortlessly outmatch fellow geniuses of the realm. His halo of luck served to conceal his true prowess, allowing him to play the part of the unsuspecting underdog while secretly wielding formidable power.
After assessing Jun Bufan’s capabilities, Gu Changge’s interest waned, shifting his focus to the surrounding landscape. He contemplated potential points of chaos, considering where to intervene if necessary.
The Demon Master, the King of Chaos, and the Marshal of the Monster Race—all formidable figures—lurked nearby with their retinues. Additionally, numerous major demon clans from the Nine Realms of the Demon Realm converged upon the scene, their allegiances uncertain.
Surveying the bustling surroundings, Gu Changge noted the looming danger surrounding Empress Xi Yao’s faction. He speculated on the whereabouts of Bai Lian’er, the mastermind behind Spring Breeze Pavilion, and pondered the contents of the treasure bag entrusted to her by Xuan Yang Demon Emperor.
It seemed that aside from Empress Xi Yao, Bai Lian’er, and others remained oblivious to Jun Bufan’s true identity, adopting a wait-and-see approach. Gu Changge squinted as he surveyed the throngs of creatures densely packed around the sacred mountain, realizing the difficulty of pinpointing Bai Lian’er’s location amidst the chaotic crowd.
If Bai Lian’er possessed any semblance of cunning, she would surely alter her appearance, ensuring her identity remained shrouded in secrecy from prying eyes.
With this thought in mind, Gu Changge’s gaze sharpened slightly as he gestured to his subordinates, issuing a directive. “Keep a vigilant watch on the surroundings. If you spot any suspicious individuals, apprehend them immediately.”
“Understood, master,” Tian Ze and the other powerhouses acknowledged before swiftly blending into the void, their presence fading from sight.
Observing their departure, Qing Zhu, positioned behind Empress Xi Yao, betrayed a hint of unease. However, amidst the bustling activity, her disquiet went unnoticed by those around her.
She sensed the impending magnitude of the events about to unfold—a reckoning that could shape the fate of Empress Xi Yao and the entire demon world. Her palms grew clammy with nervous anticipation, recognizing the gravity of the impending moment.
A few days prior, Jun Fan had entrusted Qingzhu with a vial of pill powder, instilling a sense of unease and nervousness upon her return. However, recognizing the gravity of the situation, she resolved to carry out the plan despite her apprehensions.
Qingzhu, responsible for managing Empress Xi Yao’s resources and daily consumption, seamlessly incorporated the pill powder into her regimen without arousing suspicion. Assured by Jun Fan that the powder held no toxicity, she trusted in its efficacy to go unnoticed by Empress Xi Yao.
Yet, the unexpected presence of Gu Changge by Empress Xi Yao’s side stirred a sense of unease within Qingzhu. Gu Changge’s dispatching of subordinates to eliminate suspicious individuals further heightened her concerns—had he caught wind of something amiss?
As doubts gnawed at her, Qingzhu couldn’t help but wonder about the implications for Jun Fan’s plan. The recent exchange between Empress Xi Yao and Gu Changge only fueled her anxiety, prompting her to question the likelihood of success.
Sensing Qingzhu’s unease, Empress Xi Yao inquired, her curiosity piqued. “Is something amiss? Has Young Master Changge noticed anything?”
Gu Changge’s response was composed, his smile masking any trace of concern. “Nothing to worry about, Your Majesty. Just a sudden bout of unease.”
Empress Xi Yao discerned the underlying meaning behind Gu Changge’s words, a warmth enveloping her heart at his unspoken concern. She offered a gentle smile, choosing not to probe further into his sudden unease.
Having weathered countless attacks during previous Banquets of Geniuses, Empress Xi Yao had grown accustomed to such threats. She anticipated the likelihood of imminent assaults during the current event.
Gu Changge’s dispatching of subordinates to identify potential threats reassured her, a subtle display of protective vigilance that did not go unnoticed. It stirred a complex mix of emotions within her, briefly resurrecting feelings of dependency that she promptly dispelled.
For over 6,000 years, Empress Xi Yao had shouldered the burden of crises alone, relying on her strength and resolve to navigate turbulent waters. Though the Demon Master occasionally offered advice, she predominantly faced challenges solo, relying on her iron-willed determination to prevail.
Despite fleeting moments of vulnerability in Gu Changge’s presence, Empress Xi Yao swiftly reaffirmed her status as the sovereign ruler of countless demon beings, dismissing any notion of dependency on the young junior before her.
Gu Changge’s inquiry interrupted her contemplation, drawing her attention to the sacred mountain where Jun Fan’s figure stood amidst swirling dust. With keen interest, he sought her opinion on the enigmatic individual.
Empress Xi Yao’s response was measured, her gaze fixed upon Jun Fan’s distant form as she contemplated her assessment of the young man before offering her reply.
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