I Am the Fated Villain

In the grand hall of the Heaven Slaying Alliance headquarters, a multitude of individuals stood, their expressions ranging from surprise to confusion. Among them were leaders from various ethnic groups who had convened to deliberate and decide on matters. Though some had not yet departed, they were now drawn to attention by the unusual comportment of Gu Wuwang, Ming, and Jiu Jianxian, the deputy leaders of the Alliance.

As “Wang Wushang,” the Daoist representing the Heaven Slaying Alliance, stood with his arms folded behind him, his presence exuded an unfathomable depth and an unmistakable, intimidating power. Facing his assembled followers, he surveyed the hall, maintaining an outward appearance of calm despite any inner disquiet.

“It appears an unexpected visitor has arrived in the Dao Chang Realm. Our esteemed seniors must have sensed it, prompting their early departure,” he remarked coolly. “We shall await their return here. If they cannot handle the situation, my hastening there would be futile.”

As he spoke, his eyes seemed to shimmer with myriad visions, evoking the rumbling of distant stars and the celestial dance of sun and moon, symbolizing the vast power he held. In the absence of the three ancient cultivators, he emerged as the de facto voice and pillar of the gathering.

Behind him, Cen Shuang furrowed her brow, harboring dissatisfaction with the current “Wang Wushang.” Similarly, Ao Teng, Ao Ling, Shen Xian’er, and others shared subtle creases of concern upon their brows.

However, at this juncture, they maintained their silence, preferring not to incite unwarranted disturbances. Gu Wuwang, Ming, and Jiu Jianxian had already departed through the air, seemingly bound for the outer reaches of the sky. This departure stirred emotions within the hall, leaving the younger and middle-aged generations murmuring in uneasy tones.

Upon hearing Ni Chen’s words initially, many were startled, their worry palpable. As the three ancient cultivators vanished seemingly into thin air, there was no opportunity to inquire further into the situation.

From “Wang Wushang’s” remarks, it appeared indeed that a formidable entity had descended upon the Dao Chang Realm.

“If only the Alliance Leader were present at this moment. With them at the helm, I would feel assured,” murmured a leader of an ancient clan, unable to contain his thoughts.

His sentiment found resonance among many present, who held Gu Changge in the highest regard as the paramount figure in the Dao Chang Realm, possessing an inscrutable level of cultivation. With Gu Changge leading the charge, even against an indomitable and formidable foe, there was confidence in overcoming any challenge.

Yet, despite Gu Changge’s presence, a lingering fear and shadow persisted among many, a testament to his imposing influence over their lives.

However, this also carried the benefit of alleviating concerns and fears about the presence of external parties.

“Didn’t you hear what the deputy leader said? The current state of the Dao Chang Realm calls for vigilance. All may be within the purview of our leader. What cause for worry remains? Rather than fretting, it would be wise to contemplate how to address this situation. Must we constantly rely on one individual?” spoke one voice, urging reflection.

Yet, there were leaders of ethnic groups who remained vigilant even in times of apparent peace, questioning the validity of such thinking. They knew that Gu Changge always projected an aura of detachment, as if the affairs of the world held no sway over him. They pondered whether relying solely on Gu Changge was prudent, forgetting the lessons of the forbidden era.

They remembered the cataclysmic upheavals in the upper realms, the annihilation of countless immortal forces and ancient universes, with billions perishing in the aftermath—all attributed to Gu Changge. While Gu Changge’s leadership had ushered in a more conducive environment for cultivation, fostering peace and growth among the various ethnic groups, many seemed to have conveniently forgotten his true nature—the demon lord.

In the main hall, leaders of ethnic groups engaged in hushed discussions. Some harbored worry and unease, while others remained composed, awaiting the return of the three ancient cultivators.

Meanwhile, “Wang Wushang” paced the hall with measured steps, hands clasped behind his back, lost in thought. His gaze swept slowly across the assembly, silently observing.

“Fear not, everyone. As a Daoist of the Heaven-Slaying Alliance, should any mishap occur, I vow to find a means to safeguard you all. All races and Daoisms are integral members of our alliance,” he declared, projecting an air of confidence. “I stand on the cusp of ascending to the ranks of immortal emperors. Even in the face of a Dao realm existence, I possess the strength to resist. You’ve witnessed my talents firsthand. In a matter of years, I shall match the prowess of several esteemed seniors.”

His words, spoken with an air of superiority, aimed to win over hearts. However, the presence of the other two Dao realms, aside from Gu Wuwang, posed the greatest obstacle to his plans for the Dao Chang Realm. Thus, Ni Chen saw the absence of the three Dao realms as an opportunity to enlist the leaders of all ethnic groups and Daoisms to support him, paving the way for his future schemes.

Ni Chen pondered earnestly. The destruction of the Underworld Realm, his original domain, during an invasion by external forces left few surviving clansmen. Only by attaining Gu Changge’s level could he hope to revive his kin, a process that could only proceed gradually. Upon seizing control of the Dao Chang Realm, he planned to immediately resurrect his loved ones, welcoming the remaining clansmen from the small world to multiply and thrive in their new home.

With his status as a Daoist of the Heaven Slaying Alliance as a foundation, the prosperity of the Underworld clan seemed within reach. Bolstered by the fortune of the real world and ample cultivation resources, his path to advancement would hasten. As his strength burgeoned, he envisioned a complete transformation of the Dao Chang Realm into the Underworld Realm, cementing his dominance.

Thus, in this endeavor, he resolved to seize control of the Dao Chang Realm, viewing it as imperative to his grand design.

Among the followers trailing behind “Wang Wushang” stood numerous leaders of prominent clans, their voices now echoing in agreement. “You’ve witnessed the Daoist’s talent, and his astounding rate of advancement will soon rival that of the three Seniors. The future is boundless.”

“Moreover, the Daoist enjoys the favor of the alliance’s leader and has been bestowed with the most coveted treasure, the Hongmeng Myriad Root, a supreme artifact with myriad extraordinary uses. Rest assured, our leader will surely entrust the Heavenly Alliance to the Daoist in due time…”

“I urge everyone to consider the long-term perspective and not sacrifice future prospects for fleeting gains.”

The divide between Daoist “Wang Wushang” and the two Dao realm entities, Jiu Jianxian and Ming, was well-known within the Heaven-Slaying Alliance. Some leaders of ethnic groups endeavored to maintain a neutral stance, avoiding offense to either faction. However, with Jiu Jianxian, Ming, and others having departed the hall, “Wang Wushang” seized the moment to articulate his position, the implications clear to all.

The complexion of many attendees in the hall subtly shifted, and the murmured discussions ceased. The ongoing power struggle within the Heaven-Slaying Alliance had intensified.

Despite the oversight of Gu Wuwang, the deputy leader, the underlying issues remained unresolved. The alliance encompassed a vast expanse, comprising ancient forces and ethnic groups across numerous universes and worlds. The stakes were immense, impossible for even a Dao Realm entity to disregard.

The conflict over the Hongmeng Myriad Root had exacerbated tensions between Ming, the others, and Daoist “Wang Wushang,” leading to a hostile and competitive dynamic among the factions they represented.

In the grand scheme of things, while such actions weren’t conducive to the stability of the Heaven Slaying Alliance, they did foster the development and maturation of its constituents.

“These words today aren’t meant to rush your decision-making but to remind you that the journey ahead is long, and foresight is essential,” Ni Chen remarked, clasping his hands behind his back with an air of superiority.

In him, many glimpsed shades of Gu Changge, causing those who sought neutrality in the power struggle to reconsider. With Gu Changge’s implicit support, Ni Chen held a position of unassailability, even though he couldn’t yet match the might of the two Dao realm ancient cultivators. Neither Jiu Jianxian nor Ming dared to challenge him, recognizing his innate invincibility. Moreover, “Wang Wushang” represented hope for the Dao Chang Realm as a wildcard in the equation.

Cen Shuang, Ao Teng, and others observed with icy detachment, understanding the futility of further discourse at this juncture. “Wang Wushang” continued to assert his dominance, disregarding even the Ancient Immortal tribe’s immortal emperor, “Uncle Yi.”

“Wang Wushang, don’t presume to control everything. Are you not concerned about alienating your cousin with these actions?” challenged one voice. “He founded the Heaven Slaying Alliance from nothing, and now you’ve thrown it into disarray. Do you truly believe your cousin will remain indifferent? He raised you to your current stature, but he could just as easily cast you down irreparably.”

However, it was only Shen Xian’er who boldly confronted “Wang Wushang,” expressing no fear despite his overwhelming power. Her defiance elicited a shift in many attendees’ expressions, recognizing her formidable background and hesitating to provoke her.

Ni Chen dared not retaliate against Shen Xian’er.

He turned on his heel, the smile vanishing from his face as he spoke lightly, “Miss Shen needn’t concern herself with such matters. The leader’s foresight surpasses your understanding. It takes more than mere speculation to comprehend his intentions. Besides, do you truly believe the leader would be bothered by this?”

“To him, the Heaven-Slaying Alliance may be no more than a whimsical diversion. If my efforts serve to strengthen the Alliance, do you think he would censure or punish me upon learning?” Ni Chen’s tone reflected the confidence of one who had lived through many ages, convinced that he understood Gu Changge’s mindset. As long as he didn’t cross Gu Changge’s boundaries, wouldn’t he be granted free rein over the Alliance?

Moreover, with Gu Changge absent from the Dao Chang Realm, Ni Chen reasoned, he wouldn’t be involved in Alliance affairs. This rebuttal left Shen Xian’er momentarily speechless, a trace of frustration crossing her features. Despite her master’s disparagement by “Wang Wushang,” as an apprentice, she felt powerless to intervene.

“If only my sister were here…” she thought, her spirits sinking further.

Silence enveloped the main hall as onlookers refrained from comment, even those aligned with “Wang Wushang,” wary of offending Shen Xian’er. In their eyes, she was a direct descendant of Gu Changge, while “Wang Wushang” was akin to an “heir.”

Outside the hall, another disturbance rippled through the distance, the void quivering slightly. Terrifying auras clashed and then receded, unsettling the world’s equilibrium.

“The seniors have returned…” Amidst the collective relief at sensing the familiar auras, joy spread across many faces.

“Wang Wushang” departed without further ado, striding out of the hall.

In the void, the laws continued their tumultuous dance, while in the distant sky, a golden path materialized, spanning the multi-dimensional universe like a bridge connecting several worlds. Gu Wuwang, Ming, and Jiu Jianxian stood upon this path, accompanied by an old ape with white brows clad in a cultivator’s robe, his gentle features and dignified presence betraying kindness in his eyes.

Following closely behind them were numerous figures, their features obscured by either chaotic mist or dense miasma, shrouding the surroundings.

“Senior Brother Qing Feng…” Cen Shuang exclaimed upon spotting a familiar figure on the Golden Road, unable to contain her surprise and excitement. Her fellow immortal clansmen, who had resided in the City of No Return since childhood, recognized the figure as well, their excitement palpable. “It’s Senior Qing Feng, he’s truly returned!”

“I never imagined Mr. Qing Feng would still be alive, let alone return,” remarked the silver-robed man beside Cen Shuang, known as “Uncle Yi,” who was unfamiliar with Qing Feng’s backstory.

“Uncle Yi, Brother Qing Feng was apprenticed to my grandfather. He hailed from the Sea of No Return and suffered amnesia. He lived in the City of No Return afterward and was on par with my senior siblings. Senior Brother Qing Feng embarked on a quest to find the former sages of the Immortal Palace who journeyed to the Nine Heavens, seeking their aid in our current crisis…” Cen Shuang explained, her joy evident at Qing Feng’s safe return.