“973”I AM THE FATED VILLAIN

"973"

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"What!? The Alliance Leader won't be able to intervene in this matter!?" The experts from the Other Domain who asked the question probably did not expect to receive such an answer. His originally deferent expression froze on his face, and it took a long time for him to recover from the shock.

Prior to this situation, every single person in the Prosperous Dao True World had always regarded Gu Changge as the backbone of the world. It did not matter what he had done in the past. To the Prosperous Dao True World, he was simply the strongest. As long as Gu Changge protected the Prosperous Dao True World, there was no need to worry about invaders.

However, they were suddenly informed that Gu Changge would not intervene in this matter. Would that not mean they had to face this crisis on their own?

Cen Shuang, Ao Teng, Ao Ling, and the others did not expect such an outcome either. Therefore, their mood instantly darkened.

Aside from the three Dao Realm ancient cultivators, the strongest cultivator in the Prosperous Dao True World was only in the Immortal Emperor Realm. How were they going to deal with the impending catastrophe?

Gu Wuwang had already anticipated their reactions. Hence, he answered without the slightest change in his expression, "The Alliance Leader must have his reasons. This is an obstacle that the Prosperous Dao True World must experience. As the ones living in the Prosperous Dao True World, how can you leave everything to others? How will you grow stronger like that?"

Toward the end, his tone became slightly angry. He sounded as though he hated the Prosperous Dao True World's disappointing behaviour.

The people in the palace fell silent, and some of them even looked ashamed of themselves. If they thought about the situation carefully, they realised that there was truth in Gu Wuwang's words. They were relying too much on the strong and lacked the vigilance for danger during times of peace.

In the long run, their behaviour was certainly not suitable for the prosperity and growth of the Prosperous Dao True World. The impending crisis might just be the perfect test and training for them. After all, could they really expect Gu Changge to save them from every single disaster?

"Throughout history, heroes have always emerged during troubled times. Since the Alliance Leader has already made arrangements in advance, we should obey his instructions."

The leaders inside the palace immediately exchanged glances with each other. Then, they declared that they would prepare themselves to face this impending crisis as soon as they return.

The two Dao Realm ancient cultivators, the Drunken Sword Immortal and Ming, also nodded in agreement. They generally represented enormous power, and their opinions would oftentimes influence the outcome of a discussion. Fortunately, their thoughts were aligned with Gu Wuwang's now that they were facing an upcoming disaster.

Afterwards, Gu Wuwang and the others discussed the current situation of the Prosperous Dao True World. He also inquired about the strength possessed by the youths, adults, and the ancient cultivators who had returned to life recently. This was to have a rough idea of the overall state of affairs.

Many ancient and powerful figures had revived during this period. It could be through rebirth, reincarnation, awakening their original memories, or resurrecting from the dead. There were all sorts of bizarre and mysterious methods of revival. However, the level of their strength was very uneven. The strong were in the Immortal Emperor Realm while the weak were only at the threshold of the Immortal King Realm.

In the Prosperous Dao True World of today, those in the Immortal King Realm and above were considered the peak combat powers of the world. As for those at pinnacle of the Mortal Realm, which included the True Daoist and those about to become True Immortals, were considered another minor pillar of strength.

Relatively speaking, there was no shortage of the peak combatants. The only lacking element was the Dao Realm experts. They were the true foundation and strength for a True World. They were truly the ones to establish a foothold in the Boundless Expanse.

For that reason, everybody focused their attention on the Heavenslayers Alliance's Chosen One, 'Wang Wushang'. They were hoping that he could become the next Dao Realm expert.

"I heard the Chosen One is about to reach the Immortal Emperor Realm, but I don't know whether those rumours are true. The last time I heard about him, I only heard that he had become an Immortal King. To become an Immortal Emperor in the short span of several decades… His growth speed is truly horrifying."

"That information has not been confirmed. But, even if he is not an Immortal Emperor, he should at least be a Quasi-Immortal Emperor by now. You know that the Alliance Leader previously gave him a priceless treasure known as the Chaos Wondrous Root. It is an item that bring about miracles. Even Senior Ming once fought to obtain it, but the matter was eventually left unsettled for some unknown reason…"

"The Chosen One seems to be very highly regarded by the Alliance Leader. The Alliance Leader has devoted resources from various Forces to aid his growth and even bestowed him with plenty of powerful Artifacts."

"The Alliance Leader might even have personally taught or passed him some divine techniques without us knowing…"

"There is no helping it. After all, he is the hope for the future of the Prosperous Dao True World. We are counting on him to lead us through the catastrophe and usher in a new wave of hope and glory."

At the mention of 'Wang Wushang', the leaders inside the palace began to discuss among themselves in low voices. They were filled with great admiration, amazement, and even a hint of fear.

'Wang Wushang' was not only the Mountains and Oceans True World's True Spirit's Successor and the Heavenslayers Alliance's Chosen One, but he was also highly regarded by Gu Changge. Even the important figures in charge of a Force had to be extremely respectful toward him. They did not dare to overstep their boundaries around him.

During the recent times, he had gathered many followers. For example, many of the youths inside the palace, who would be in charge of their respective Forces in the future, were his followers.

The Prosperous Dao True World might seem peaceful on the surface, but there were disputes among the various Forces and undercurrents surging violently in the shadows. Anybody with a discerning eye could tell that 'Wang Wushang' would most likely become Gu Changge's Successor in the future and truly take control of the True World. He had not fully grown yet. and his wings were undeveloped right now, but he already had the power to conceal the truth and deceive the masses.

When Gu Changge first bestowed the Chaos Wondrous Root to 'Wang Wushang', Ming had seemed rather interested in the object and wanted to have a closer look at the item. However, 'Wang Wushang' had coldly rejected the request without any regard for the other party's feelings. Even though he was dealing with one of the three Dao Realm ancient cultivators in the Prosperous Dao True World, he did not care and refused to give face to the other party.

The incident caused Ming to become very annoyed, and he nearly took action to teach 'Wang Wushang' a harsh lesson. In the end, Gu Wuwang had to step forward and mediate between the two parties to finally calm Ming's rage.

It was also due to this incident that 'Wang Wushang' was once again pushed to the forefront of every conversation in the Prosperous Dao True World. The incident deeply frightened the various leaders.

With Gu Changge's support behind him, 'Wang Wushang' even dared to challenge and insult a Dao Realm ancient cultivator. That was the terrifying power he currently wielded.

His fame reached a certain peak because of this incident, and the various leaders ultimately decided to send their Successors to approach 'Wang Wushang' after a lengthy discussion among themselves. Be that as it may, the incident caused the Dao Realm ancient cultivator, Ming, who did not care much for 'Wang Wushang', to develop a strong dislike toward him.

As a figure from the Primordial Mythical Era, Ming's status was comparable with the most ancient figures in the Prosperous Dao True World. Picking a fight with him was equivalent to picking a fight with all the powerful people from the Primordial Mythical Era.

For example, the Primordial Dragon Clan and the Primordial Phoenix Clan were very hostile toward 'Wang Wushang'.

The incidents caused by the Chaos Wondrous Root did not end there. Over the years, 'Wang Wushang' also paid a high price just to guard and retain the Artifact in his possession.

Just when the experts inside the palace were fervently talking among themselves, Gu Wuwang seemed to sense something and glanced outside the palace with a slightly surprised look. On the other hand, Ming snorted in disdain. A look of displeasure appeared on his face.

There was no change to the Drunken Sword Immortal's expression. Sitting on a rocking chair inside the palace, he would occasionally give an order to his disciple, Wang Xiaoniu. Then, he would lift his wine gourd and noisily take several gulps of the contents.

"The Chosen One has arrived…"

At this moment, a guard in golden armour and a Heavenly Blade hanging from his waist strode over in quick steps and loudly made an announcement at the entrance of the palace.

Upon hearing the announcement, the expressions of those in the palace changed slightly. Many of them reflexively glanced outside the palace.

"Wang Wushang sure is flaunting his prestige. Does he really think of himself as the Master of the Prosperous Dao True World? Not only was he one hour late to the discussion of such important matters, but he also made such a public entrance. It's almost as if he was afraid nobody would notice his presence…"

The expression of Shen Xianer, who was following beside Ming, tensed and became chilly. Ming was her Master after all. As his disciple, the fact that he was humiliated by 'Wang Wushang' would naturally make her uncomfortable. It was a pity she did not have enough strength to take revenge for her Master.

'Wang Wushang' was now a powerful figure in the Prosperous Dao True World, whom nobody dared to offend, but Shen Xianer's status was not simple either. Her Master was the Dao Realm ancient cultivator, Ming, and Gu Changge was her Cousin. Due to her status and Familial ties, he dared not do anything to her.

Upon hearing Shen Xianer's words, Ao Teng and Ao Ling standing beside her shook their heads with wry smiles. They no longer dared to speak such words nowadays.

Cen Shuang, Luo Yanxi, and the others said nothing. They simply frowned and glanced outside the palace.

A tall young man in white walked over from that direction. His facial features were very handsome. Moreover, there was a golden light in his eyes that gave him an additional sense of mystery and nobility. His hair also seemed to flow with light, and every step he took exhibited great momentum.

The world seemed to centre around him. Like a young Immortal Emperor who descended from the sky, he seemed to be in control of all Principles and the movements of the Heavenly Dao.

It was none other than the Heavenslayers Alliance's Chosen One, 'Wang Wushang'.

From the way he was dressed, many people could even see a slight resemblance to Gu Changge in him. Whether he was deliberately trying to imitate Gu Changge or he was influenced by Gu Changge, his behaviour made everybody sigh inwardly.

Only a few decades had passed, but the former Successor of the Immortal Domain's Wang Family had already acquired the demeanour of one who looked down upon the people and considered the Dao Realm ancient cultivators his equal.

Quite many figures followed behind 'Wang Wushang', and some of them were in the Quasi-Immortal Emperor Realm. Their figures were very hazy. Shrouded by the Chaos Mist, it was almost as if they were standing in a different world or Spacetime.

"Greetings Senior Wuwang, Senior Ming, and Senior Drunken Sword Immortal… I was delayed by certain matters along the way, so I came a little late. I hope you do not take offence for my tardiness."

'Wang Wushang' was naturally Ni Chen.

Ni Chen looked around the palace and rested his gaze briefly on many faces before he broke into a smile. Cupping his fists, he explained his tardy arrival. His attitude was very warm.

In contrast, Ming was expressionless. He paid no attention to Ni Chen at all. The same was true for Drunken Sword Immortal. Only Gu Wuwang nodded slightly, indicating for Ni Chen to skip the formalities. Ni Chen was not bothered. With his current authority, there was indeed no need for him to bow before anybody.

Gu Wuwang was the only person managing the affairs of the Prosperous Dao True World nowadays. Gu Changge was generally a hands-off leader, and several decades had passed since he last made an appearance.

The situation could not be better for Ni Chen. He desperately wished for Gu Changge to vanish completely. If that were to happen, the Prosperous Dao True World would no longer have the strength to threaten him. Then, he could truly seize the True World with greater peace of mind.

In order to cultivate the Chaos Wondrous Root, he had not been spending much time on his plan to seize the Prosperous Dao True World recently. He could only gnaw away at the Prosperous Dao True World, bit by bit.

On the other hand, his cultivation was improving at a terrifying speed. The Chaos Wondrous Root was indeed a priceless treasure that Gu Changge had devoted countless energy into refining. The condensed Chaos Qi contained the purest Dao Source, from which one could comprehend the mysterious truths of the Immortal Realm.

Aside from that, there was a vague Spacetime energy field that existed around the Chaos Wondrous Root. It could twist the flow of time so that one could obtain twice the result with half the effort by cultivating with the help of the Chaos Wondrous Root.

Thanks to the help of the Artifact and the gathering of the True World's Fortuity, it was only natural for Ni Chen to live up to expectations. His cultivation had long since reached the Quasi-Immortal Emperor Realm.

He was currently preparing to become an Immortal Emperor in one fell swoop. Once he advanced into the Immortal Emperor Realm, he would be able to recover his full power during his peak and carry out his final plans.

In any case, 'Wang Wushang''s arrival caused the atmosphere in the palace to turn strange. Anybody with a discerning eye could see that two out of the three Dao Realm ancient cultivators were not very welcoming toward him.

Only Gu Wuwang, as the Deputy Alliance Leader, maintained a civil front. He would periodically make a symbolic gesture to ask 'Wang Wushang' for the latter's opinion during the discussion on their countermeasures against the upcoming crisis.

Seeing as there was no conflict between them, Ni Chen had no particular opinion on the matter and simply did as Gu Wuwang instructed.

Speaking of which, he had always had rather good luck. He had amassed enormous power over the years. In fact, he even had some of the races born from chaos under his command.

Among his followers behind him were several horrifying existences with the aura of Quasi-Immortal Emperors. This beings were born from the deepest parts of chaos, and were comparable to the Primordial Races, like the Primordial Dragon, the Primordial Phoenix, and the Primordial Qilin. Their strength was absolutely overpowering.

Toward the end of the discussion, Gu Wuwang issued orders for various affairs so that the leaders could implement the appropriate measures. After that, they only needed to face the impending crisis with all their strength.

At this juncture, Gu Wuwang, Ming, and the Drunken Sword Immortal suddenly raised their heads in unison. They stared intently at the sky outside the palace, almost as though they could sense something.

"There's an extremely powerful existence outside the Boundless Expanse. His aura is not inferior to you or I. More importantly, the visitor does not seem to be friendly."

They had abruptly sensed an extremely powerful and ancient divine sense, sweeping over them from outside the Prosperous Dao True World as though investigating the substantiality of the True World.

Their expressions immediately changed drastically. Then, they quickly soared into the sky to investigate the situation.

The people who had yet to leave the palace were startled by the sudden phenomenon. Even Ni Chen's heart skipped a beat, and he could not shake the feeling of unease that surged in his heart.

At the same time, a shocking phenomenon was taking place in an extremely remote and wild corner of the Upper Realm.

Surrounded by mountains and ravines on all sides, many places along the mountain range were filled with thick fog that blocked out the sunlight. Hence, the environment was extremely dark. This place was known as the No Man's Land of the Heavenly Tomb, which did not exist on any known coordinate or unknown space.

However, the ground was continuously splitting apart at this moment. Countless cracks appeared throughout the land as a consequence. Chaos Energy seeped out from among these cracks, causing the light, the void, and even the Spacetime to become distorted.

"I'm finally able to leave that godforsaken place…" A big red bird flapped its wings furiously, flying at an incredible speed. It took the lead and rushed out of these cracks while simultaneously shouting.