I Am the Fated Villain - Chapter 414

Chapter 414: I met my brother Bu Fan, the snipe and clam compete for the fisherman’s profit

“It should be Fan’er who found it,” he remarked.

“The message I left him at the beginning should logically be understood by him now.”

In an ancient cave where sunlight filtered through and the essence of Dao intertwined, a stalwart figure sat cross-legged, his features blurred amidst swirling mist. Multicolored blood, still fresh, marred the ground, its pungency lingering, while strands of imperial radiance filled the air.

Finally speaking, he voiced with a hint of relief, “Is what Brother Xuan Yang said true?”

Not far from him, a tall, slender woman emerged. Clad in a flowing white robe that shimmered like moonlight, she exuded a natural nobility, akin to a goddess descended from the moon.

“This matter is indeed true. From the outset, I planted numerous contingencies for Fan’er, ensuring he would come here to uncover the truth firsthand,” the Xuan Yang Demon Emperor affirmed.

“Just moments ago, I sensed the key I left him resonating with the laws of heaven and earth here, indicating his arrival is imminent. I believe he will find us soon,” he continued, a faint smile crossing his face, a rare expression of relief.

“That’s good news. Chi Xiao and the others are also preparing to act,” nodded the You Yue Demon Emperor. Her eyes were profound, her silvery hair cascading like a starlit waterfall. Though her aura didn’t match the Xuan Yang Demon Emperor’s in power, it held an enigmatic allure.

“We should make our own preparations. I am determined to secure the origin of the world,” declared the Xuan Yang Demon Emperor, his gaze intensifying as he rose from his seat and departed. With a single step, the world around him froze momentarily before he emerged in the void outside.

He awaited the arrival of Jun Bufan.

Six thousand years prior, they had orchestrated a plan for the origin of the demon world, setting in motion events of monumental scale. They deceived not only the entire demon realm but also many beyond it, leading many to wrongly believe they had all perished in the chaos of the demon world.

To conceal such an opportunity from the public eye, they had no choice but to enter this place and await the maturation of the origin of the world.

The Mirror Realm had emerged following the demise of the last mirror demon in ancient times. This place had been established by an ancient entity within the demon world, its entrance guarded by the gate of life and death to veil the greatest secret of the demon realm: the origin of the world.

Even in realms of the highest echelon, such occurrences were exceedingly rare. It encompassed the primordial essence and fundamental laws of the world, housing myriad innate Dao formations. For beings of their stature, the origin of the world represented an elusive aspiration, a gateway to potentially transcend to another realm.

Even in the celestial realms, spanning countless epochs, the birth of a fairyland had never been witnessed. Yet, the world origin of the demon realm offered them a glimpse of immortality, prompting sacrifices even of their progeny to achieve this staggering feat.

To lend credence to their disappearance, they strategically left behind tools of enlightenment, deceiving many beyond their realm into believing they had vanished.

However, the Xuan Yang Demon Emperor remained vigilant, laying numerous contingencies in place, intending for his son, Jun Bufan, to come to him after six thousand years. He understood that the origin of the world alone could not sustain the breakthrough needed for the Six Emperors; some among them would have to perish.

Without the Dao-building expertise embedded within their bodies, the outcome among them remained uncertain. However, once his heir arrived wielding his own Dao-building expertise in the form of the Xuan Yang Heavenly Sword, the tide would turn in their favor.

Unfortunately, this strategy had been exposed by Demon Emperor Chi Xiao six thousand years earlier, leading to a fierce battle where a quasi-emperor perished and the remaining five sustained injuries, scattered across different realms to recuperate in secret.

Despite Chi Xiao’s awareness, the Xuan Yang Demon Emperor’s plans had been set in motion and were unalterable. Presently, only Demon Emperor You Yue stood by his side.

On Chi Xiao’s side, he aligned with the Blood Demon Emperor and another Demon Emperor. Though the odds seemed stacked against him, possessing the Dao-building expertise ensured that everything could swiftly reverse.

In the vast demon world, only two Dao-building expertise tools remained.

One was his Xuan Yang Heavenly Sword, and the other was the Scarlet Sky Spear belonging to the Scarlet Sky Demon Emperor. Originally left in the Demon Realm by the Scarlet Heaven Demon Emperor, the Scarlet Sky Spear could only be brought here if he willingly departed this realm. Moreover, re-entering the Mirror Realm required the scales of the mirror monster as a key; without it, external forces couldn’t breach the formation’s barrier. Thus, it seemed unlikely that Demon Emperor Chi Xiao would leave the world at such a critical juncture.

“For over 6,000 years, Xi Yao and Bu Fan have endured…” The You Yue Demon Emperor sighed softly, a hint of melancholy crossing her features.

However, the Xuan Yang Demon Emperor appeared indifferent, remarking, “It’s a matter of great importance, not to be taken lightly. Although Fan’er has been entangled in this affair, I trust he will comprehend my intentions. Xi Yao’s temperament isn’t suitable for him. Even if we hadn’t given Xi Yao this opportunity, she would have pursued it later.”

Demon Emperor You Yue remained silent. She had consented to this decision from the outset and harbored no regrets.

As they conversed, a sudden aura emerged from the distant sky, accompanied by a divine light that swiftly descended towards them.

“This person is…”

The complexion of the You Yue Demon Emperor shifted slightly as she sensed an unfamiliar aura approaching—certainly not Jun Bufan.

Frowning, the Xuan Yang Demon Emperor found himself surprised; instead of his heir, another young man of striking appearance approached. Clad in enigmatic attire with a divine bearing, he stood tall and straight. Intricate patterns adorned his sleeves, exuding a noble and mysterious air that hinted at an extraordinary origin.

Upon closer inspection, despite appearing in his twenties, his cultivation level caused their pupils to contract and their hearts to tremble. Could such a prodigious talent exist in this world? A quasi-supreme cultivation base at such a young age?

The You Yue Demon Emperor mirrored the astonishment of the Xuan Yang Demon Emperor. It was her first encounter with a young quasi-supreme powerhouse of this caliber.

Six thousand years had passed; what was happening in the outside world now to produce such a young prodigy? Even in the tales of ancient times, the era of immortals battling for supremacy seemed tame in comparison.

“The junior Gu Changge greets Demon Emperor Xuan Yang and Demon Emperor You Yue,” spoke the young man before them, interrupting their thoughts. His demeanor was gentle, like a spring breeze—neither humble nor arrogant, yet far from impertinent. Such bearing hinted at an extraordinary background and upbringing.

“Do you know whom I am waiting for?” queried the unchanged Xuan Yang Demon Emperor, his gaze penetrating as starry scenes flickered within his deep eyes, as if attempting to unravel Gu Changge’s essence.

“Of course, I know,” Gu Changge responded with a slight smile. “I came to this world specifically to find the two of you.”

“What is your relationship with the Ancient Immortal Gu family?” asked the You Yue Demon Emperor icily, scrutinizing Gu Changge from his face to his temperament and cultivation base. Their shock and suspicion were palpable upon encountering such a young man who not only breached their location but also identified them so readily.

Yet, they refrained from hostility, sensing no malevolence from Gu Changge.

“I am the young master of the Gu family,” Gu Changge affirmed with a smile that remained poised between humility and confidence.

Upon hearing this, the You Yue Demon Emperor’s pupils constricted momentarily, her vigilant demeanor softening slightly. Likewise, the Xuan Yang Demon Emperor’s expression turned more solemn, shedding his earlier casualness. Despite their isolation from the world for six millennia, they knew that no one would dare impersonate such a prestigious identity.

Had Gu Changge been an ordinary individual, they might have probed his soul preemptively, but they refrained, recognizing the weight of his claim.

“I wonder why the young master of the Gu family seeks me out?” inquired the Xuan Yang Demon Emperor cautiously, his wariness toward Gu Changge unabated. As an enlightened Dao building expert standing at the pinnacle of Taoist cultivation in this world, he commanded reverence even among the leaders of great sects in the upper realms. There seemed little reason to extend such deference to a young junior like Gu Changge.

“I and Bu Fan are close friends. He asked me to come here to find the two of you and deliver something to the Xuan Yang Demon Emperor,” Gu Changge explained calmly, his smile unwavering.

Demon Emperor Xuan Yang furrowed his brow, struggling to accept Gu Changge’s words. The You Yue Demon Emperor shared a similar skepticism, sensing something amiss.

“How can I trust you? Where is Xiao Fan now?” questioned Xuan Yang Demon Emperor, his gaze probing Gu Changge for any sign of deception. Yet, despite his scrutiny, Gu Changge’s composure remained undisturbed, disappointing the emperor who found no trace of falsehood even with his keen perception, a reminder that being in the Emperor Realm offered no advantage in discerning deception.

“It seems Xuan Yang Demon Emperor is a bit too wary. I am here on Bufan’s behalf, and there is no reason for you to doubt me,” Gu Changge replied with continued poise, his smile maintaining its courteous demeanor.

The Xuan Yang Demon Emperor, hearing this, felt a twinge of discomfort, realizing that Gu Changge had no motive to deceive him.

“And he mentioned that he was entrusted by Jun Bufan.”

“Of course, if the Xuan Yang Demon Emperor does not believe me, there is little I can do. Allow me to briefly recount how I met Brother Bufan. Six thousand years ago, chaos engulfed the demon world as Demon Master Bai Kun fled to the Chaotic Star Territory for seclusion. Recently, he sought his daughter Bai Lian’er, drawing the attention of Empress Xi Yao of the demon world, who dispatched her forces to apprehend him. During this time, I happened upon Bai Lian’er being harassed by the demon world’s agents and intervened.”

“From Demon Master Bai Kun, I learned about the items entrusted to him by Demon Emperor Xuan Yang. Accompanied by Bai Lian’er, I arrived in the demon world, coinciding with Brother Bufan’s plan to infiltrate Empress Xi Yao’s banquet of geniuses in an attempt on her life.”

“Although unsuccessful, the attempt injured and enraged Empress Xi Yao, revealing Brother Bufan’s true identity and leading to the imprisonment of his entire family. Now, he seeks a way to rescue his kin without distraction.”

“This is why he tasked me with finding the two of you based on the contents of the items, to rectify this misunderstanding and secure the release of his family in this life.”

Gu Changge spoke calmly and naturally, his expression unchanged. He detailed the situation to the two demon emperors, Xuan Yang and You Yue, whose expressions had grown more serious as they listened to the intricacies of the tale.

“You know what’s in the bag?” The Xuan Yang Demon Emperor’s expression grew serious.

Gu Changge nodded calmly. “I happened to witness when Brother Bufan opened the bag, so I am aware of some of its contents.”

Upon hearing this, Demon Emperor You Yue regarded Gu Changge with a complex expression. “Xi Yao and Bufan shouldn’t be enemies. This misunderstanding needs to be resolved.” She found no reason to doubt Gu Changge’s account, which clarified Jun Bufan’s whereabouts and his purpose for sending Gu Changge.

“Indeed, Brother Bufan also instructed me to deliver this item, stating that Demon Emperor Xuan Yang would require it,” Gu Changge continued, as a brilliance shimmered in his hand.

Suddenly, a black heavenly sword, forged with the brilliance of immortal gold, materialized. It emanated a powerful aura, its gleam vibrant and sharp enough to seem capable of piercing the heavens.

“The Xuan Yang Heavenly Sword!” exclaimed You Yue Demon Emperor, her eyes narrowing slightly with delight.

Xuan Yang Demon Emperor, too, felt a wave of relief wash over him. Earlier, he had scrutinized Gu Changge’s words carefully, but now, seeing the sword, his doubts dissipated, leaving him reassured by Gu Changge’s presence.

Since Jun Bufan entrusted the Xuan Yang Heavenly Sword to Gu Changge, it signified a deep level of trust between them. Moreover, Gu Changge showed no covetousness for the sword; his gaze never lingered on it for more than a moment. This natural and indifferent demeanor impressed both Demon Emperors greatly.

“There are few in this world who would remain indifferent when faced with an imperial weapon,” observed Xuan Yang Demon Emperor, his respect for Gu Changge growing.

“The young master of the Gu family is gracious. Xuan Yang is grateful,” he expressed as he accepted the Xuan Yang Heavenly Sword from Gu Changge. With the sword in hand, he felt a renewed confidence in facing Demon Emperor Chi Xiao and others, a smile breaking across his face involuntarily.

“You don’t need to be so polite, Senior. Meeting Brother Bufan revealed his integrity, and I am honored to assist him,” Gu Changge replied with a smile and a slight shake of his head.

Hearing this, Demon Emperor You Yue couldn’t help but regard Gu Changge with renewed admiration. His demeanor and strength confirmed his status as the young master of the Ancient Immortal Gu family—a rarity in the world.

“However, I have a request that may seem impertinent, and I hope the two seniors can help clarify my doubts,” Gu Changge interjected with a hint of curiosity on his face.

“Master Gu, please ask. Anything we know, we will gladly share with you,” assured Xuan Yang Demon Emperor. With the Xuan Yang Heavenly Sword in his possession, his mood was buoyant, and his presence exuded a heightened aura of authority. Gu Changge’s inquiry posed no issue for him whatsoever.

“What is the truth of the chaos in the demon world six thousand years ago?” Gu Changge asked, his curiosity piqued.

Upon hearing this, Demon Emperor Xuan Yang and Demon Emperor You Yue exchanged a glance, their expressions briefly awkward. What could they divulge about such a pivotal event—was it to shape the grand scheme and bewilder all beings in the demon world?

“If the young master of the Gu family wishes to know the truth, please accompany us,” replied You Yue Demon Emperor, opting for a non-committal response.

Seeing their reluctance, Gu Changge shrugged indifferently. “If you prefer not to say more, then let it be.”

“Indeed, you should understand once you witness it,” Xuan Yang Demon Emperor added with a slight shake of his head. With that, their forms ascended into the air, Dao energy shimmering under their feet, extending into the distance. Their presence exuded a formidable aura, unsettling the atmosphere and threatening to rupture the fabric of space.

Observing their departure, You Yue Demon Emperor swiftly followed suit, her figure blending into the blurred void, swiftly covering the ground.

A flicker of intrigue flashed in Gu Changge’s eyes as he hastened to catch up.

“Xuan Yang, You Yue, are you finally willing to show yourselves?” A chilling, sneering voice echoed from the distant horizon. Accompanying this ominous tone, footsteps reverberated, heralding the arrival of a figure akin to an ancient deity, drenched in blood that seemed to pool like a crimson sea.

Boom!

Stepping forward, he unleashed a monstrous aura that caused the ground to tremble and collapse. Radiance flowed around him, accompanied by an aura of death and a path of blood extending into the sky behind him. As a quasi-emperor, he stood nearly invincible unless faced with an opponent beyond the emperor realm.

With a pointed gesture, a pitch-black flower bloomed, its Dao aura circulating and its laws resembling blood-colored petals shattering in the void, tainted by endless filth. This was the Blood Demon Emperor’s ultimate technique—an attack capable of collapsing the void, annihilating vitality, and destroying everything in its path.

“You dare to obstruct me? You escaped last time, but this time, you won’t be so fortunate,” Xuan Yang Demon Emperor retorted coldly, slashing forward with the Xuan Yang Heavenly Sword. A resounding hum filled the air as endless black light erupted, meeting the devastating strike head-on.

Brilliant blood-colored lights shimmered, but they were swiftly annihilated and dispersed, leaving only faint ripples in the void.

“The Xuan Yang Heavenly Sword? Your Dao-building expertise?” The Blood Demon Emperor exclaimed in surprise. With a single flick, even entire worlds could be pierced by his quasi-emperor cultivation. Yet, here, his attack was shattered into dust, and the overwhelming aura seemed to threaten his very existence.

“It’s useless to bring it here!” shouted a figure filled with killing intent as he soared into the sky—it was Demon Emperor Chi Xiao. Adorned with a black gold crown and red wings on his back, he moved with incredible speed.

Instantly, the aura of an Emperor Realm surged back, shrouding the sky in chaotic mist. A fearsome blood dragon erupted from the heavens, tearing through the atmosphere and sending shockwaves rippling across the area. Chaos ensued as light surged into the sky, ground trembled violently, and a massive chasm threatened to devour everything under the pressure of the Emperor Realm aura.

Another quasi-emperor appeared, launching an assault on You Yue Demon Emperor, igniting a cataclysmic battle that shook the very foundations of existence.

Meanwhile, Xuan Yang Demon Emperor wielded the Xuan Yang Heavenly Sword in a fierce battle against Chi Xiao Demon Emperor and the Blood Demon Emperor. Their clash was so intense that it threatened to tear apart the stable fabric of the world itself.

Amidst the chaos, all but Xuan Yang and Chi Xiao were quasi-emperor realm cultivators, each wielding terrifying power. The scale of the conflict was unimaginable, capable of annihilation on a grand scale.

According to rumors, the mirror demon was akin to an immortal beast, capable of reflecting vast and real worlds within its inner realm. The laws within had to be perfectly mirrored, lest they collapse under the aura of an emperor’s existence.

Observing the fierce battle unfold, Gu Changge chose not to approach but instead appeared on a mountain peak, clad in flowing black attire, his face adorned with a faint smile. Amidst the chaos, everyone disregarded a small quasi-supreme cultivator like him, focusing entirely on the monumental clash before them.

Neither Xuan Yang Demon Emperor nor You Yue Demon Emperor anticipated his intervention. Even Demon Emperor Chi Xiao, Blood Demon Emperor, and their peers, though surprised by Gu Changge’s identity, had no time to spare for him.

“The origin of the world…” Gu Changge murmured softly, his eyes swirling with black and white, intertwining in a cycle of reincarnation. It seemed as if the six realms of heaven and earth manifested, with celestial towers, vast stars, and immortal halls evolving and collapsing within his gaze.

The scene was profoundly awe-inspiring, yet gradually, tranquility returned.

Gu Changge remained unhurried as the battle unfolded, recognizing that both sides had just begun and were yet to suffer significant losses. He believed in the strategy of letting others exhaust themselves while he reaped the rewards—a classic case of waiting for the right moment to strike.

Before making his move, Gu Changge decided to employ a few tricks. With a calm demeanor, he casually shattered several jade talismans into the void. They transformed into a swirling chaotic mist, concealing within them images of ancient immortal palaces that appeared and vanished swiftly.