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Translator: Fate
Proofreader: Silavin
“Young Master Gu…” Widening her eyes, Ying Yu too was shocked as she wasn’t expecting Gu Changge’s presence, let alone his interruption, and he seemed intent on dispersing the commotion.
“Greetings, Young Master Changge!”
Seeing how Gu Changge was about to clear off the commotion, the tactful people of Sky Emperor Mountain hastily greeted him with utmost respect, and Ah Gu, the man in black, was especially thrilled.
Theoretically, Sky Emperor Mountain and Gu Changge should be standing on the opposite sites, but upon how Gu Changge willingly defended Sky Emperor Mountain, Ah Gu was reminded of the scenario back in the tavern. If it weren’t for Gu Changge, they would have angered the entire world. Indeed, Gu Changge was a generous man, so it was no wonder why countless young prodigies volunteered to follow him.
“Lady Ying Yu.” Gu Changge turned around and slightly nodded at the startled Ying Yu with a smile. His voice was as tranquil as ever, soothing away any suspicion towards him.
“Gu Changge.” With half of his body exploded, Ying Shuang, who was slowly healing, muttered with shaky voice.
Upon regaining his senses, he felt chills all over his body, and immense coldness surging in his limbs. Truthfully, it was his first time meeting Gu Changge as he only knew about him through rumours. In fact, back when he was merely a horse feeder, Yin Mei would always tell him about Gu Changge, so he acknowledged that the man was one of the most powerful people in the world, which was why Yin Mei was drawn to adoring him.
As a matter of fact, Gu Changge was the person Ying Shuang was most jealous of, followed by the actual Prince Ying, Ying Shuang. Thus, he would rather face the Successor of the Mortal Palace, Wang Zijin, than Gu Changge. Although Gu Changge always carried a smile on his handsome, refreshing face, but the terror he possessed was a hundredfold of that of Wang Zijin, though that was simply Ying Shuang’s instinct.
Furthermore, Gu Changge was possibly aware of his biggest secret, which was why he always refrained from meeting Gu Changge. Besides, the timing of Gu Changge’s appearance was too much of a coincidence, as though the whole incident was orchestrated by him and Wang Zijin.
“Gu Changge, do you plan to stop me?” Somewhat surprised, Wang Zijin didn’t expect Gu Changge to show up so suddenly, thinking that he would stay still in the dark and watch as the exchange went on.
[Since he decided to show up anyway, why didn’t he tell me earlier? Or is he only treating me as a pawn, making such a decision on a whim?] Wang Zijin felt that she had to let Gu Changge know that although she adored him, that didn’t mean he could walk all over her as he wished.
“Why don’t we put a pause to the matter today? It’s still arguable whether Prince Ying is really the Successor of Demonic Arts,” Gu Changge said with a smile, as if he was clueless of Wang Zijin’s thoughts. “Grant me the favour, will you, Saintess Zijin?”
“No, I won’t.” Wang Zijin shook her head. Her eyes were rather chilly, after which she turned to Ying Yu with an enthralling look and added, “Seems like you’re interested in this lady, given how you keep on defending her. Are you perhaps ignoring the oddness of Prince Ying?”
At that moment, she couldn’t figure out why the apathetic Gu Changge would pull such a stunt. [Is he putting up an act? But why would he do that for Ying Yu?]
Wang Zijin grew more confused by Gu Changge’s action as his mind was unfathomable.
“Things just felt too simple. Of course, Lady Ying Yu may be quite a straightforward woman, but I don’t wish her to get dragged into the mess,” Gu Changge replied as he stood before Wang Zijin.
Dazed by those words, Ying Yu immediately blushed as though she remembered something.
Ying Shuang, on the other hand, grew visibly gloomier for a split second before reverting to his calm state without giving away his emotional vulnerability, thanks to the fact that he had been cultivating his mind swimmingly as of late.
“Oh, well. You leave me no choice by saying that. It’s not like I can beat you anyway.” Followingly, Wang Zijin took a step back and revealed a helpless look.
She was rather taken aback by Gu Changge’s out-of-nowhere impromptu, but realising that he was only being himself, she could only compromise. Essentially, judging by their relationship according to her past life, she would be the pursuer trying to woo him, so a little compromise didn’t matter.
Moreover, she was merely stating the truth. If Gu Changge insist on protecting those from Sky Emperor Mountain, she wouldn’t be able to triumph over him in a fight given her current strength. Gu Changge might seem like a simple man, but the truth was far from that. There were even times when she would suspect that he might be some unknown overlord.
“Thank you very much. I shall remember this with gratitude,” Gu Changge thanked with delight.
“Huh… Don’t mention it. It’s weird seeing you so courteous.” Wang Zijin waved her hand with a somewhat disgusted look.
Gu Changge’s tone left her feeling awkward, but she couldn’t help but wonder whether he was moved. As she was pondering, she slightly moved and vanished into thin air without leaving a trace.
At once, different emotions, envy or astonishment, appeared on the faces of the bystanders. The Successor of Mortal Palace and Gu Changge seemed like close acquaintances with the way they walked so closely to each other, or they wouldn’t have interacted so casually.
Wang Zijin, as the Successor of Mortal Palace, possessed a unique position, and indubitably, not to mention the Immortal Wang Family that had her back. Typically, it would be difficult for ordinary people to meet with her, and the younger generation could only do so as they were gathered at a place such as Eternal Overcast Battlefield.
As for suspecting Gu Changge and her pretence, no one even thought about that except Ying Shuang. Having taken that into consideration, Gu Changge, fearing his appearance might seem flawed, deliberately kept it from Wang Zijin.
“Thank you for your assistance, Prince Gu!”
“Thank you for your assistance, Young Master Gu!”
After Wang Zijin left, the people of Sky Emperor Mountain quickly heaved a sigh of relief as the pressure of facing the Successor of Mortal Palace was truly heavy. If it weren’t for Ying Shuang’s mistakes, they wouldn’t have been so miserable. To the Ancient Immortal Races, Sky Emperor Mountain had always been a sacred land that was worshipped by all. Yet, they were unfortunate enough to have to face Wang Zijin, who possessed the highest position and power, and they had no chance of defeating her.
“Worry not. Though, it seems Brother Ying is not in his right state?” Gu Changge waved his hand and turned away to observe Ying Shuang, who was recovering from his injuries.
At his gaze, Ying Shuang felt extremely uneasy, but he continued to retain his composure on his face.
“Greetings, Brother Gu.” He took a slight bow at Gu Changge. “Thank you for your assistance, Brother Gu. If you ever need anything someday…”
“Don’t mention it.” Gu Changge laughingly interrupted, “Judging by your state, I figure that day won’t be coming.”
Upon those words, Ying Shuang’s face froze as he was surprised by Gu Changge’s straightforwardness and how he had no intention of sparing his pride.
Feeling as though Gu Changge wasn’t quite friendly with her brother, Ying Yu hastily spoke. “Young Master Gu, words can’t describe our gratitude for your numerous assistance. Shall you need anything in the future, simply send a message and Sky Emperor Mountain shall do everything as long as it’s within our capability.”
For some reason, she felt Gu Changge only intervened in the confrontation for her sake. With how he came to her defence and even told her the location of the Eternal Overcast Battlefield, she wouldn’t believe it if the man’s contributions were unconditional.
“Either way, all of this started from me. If only I hadn’t told you where the entrance is, you wouldn’t have encountered Saintess Zijin.”
Seeing as Ying Yu was about to speak, Gu Changge quickly explained, “I’m only cautious of any misunderstanding since you might think that I disclosed the location of the entrance with an ulterior motive. And I’m not a man that’s fond of misunderstandings.”
Hearing that, Ying Yu and the rest came to a realisation. “So that’s why…”
“Worry not, Prince Gu. We do not perceive your generosity with despicable eyes.”
The people of Sky Emperor Mountain hastily assured.
However, Ying Shuang only grew more perturbed knowing it was Gu Changge who told them the entrance of Eternal Overcast Battlefield. [I knew he didn’t come with good intentions! Here he is, playing the good Samaritan, yet Ying Yu bought his words in an instant!”
“Brother Ying, did you convert some of your techniques? Your current strength feels somewhat different.”
At that moment, Gu Changge turned to Ying Shuang and asked with stupefaction on his face, “You certainly weren’t holding back, right? Did something happen during cultivation? Perhaps something pertaining to your soul?”
“Cultivation Technique Conversion?” Hearing Gu Changge’s words, everyone else was shocked.
Ying Shuang was the Successor of Sky Emperor Mountain, and the number of Divine Legacies he learned was more than fingers could count, so there shouldn’t be any technique in the world that was worth converting to.
Nonetheless, recalling the recent rumours regarding Forbidden Demonic Arts, those from Sky Emperor Mountain were obviously dumbfounded. The term ‘Forbidden Demonic Arts’ struck fear in their hearts, as if it was an invisible mountain pressing their heads, suffocating them.
“What are you saying, Brother Gu? Why would I change my Cultivation Technique?”
Taken aback by the directness of Gu Changge, who might as well ask whether he cultivated Forbidden Demonic Arts, Ying Shuang was visibly irritated. Nevertheless, he collected his emotions and countered with another question. Though, Gu Changge’s question regarding whether something was wrong with his soul still left him inexplicably nervous as it involved his greatest secret, and Gu Changge must be aware of it to ask about it.
“Ah, I must have overthought it, then.” Gu Changge leisurely smiled.
“Speaking of which, Brother did tell me that something happened to his soul when he was cultivating, and he ended up losing a part of his memories.” At that moment, sensing something was up, Ying Yu instinctively muttered as traces of frightening silver gleams flashed across her eyes.
“What?”
“When did that happen?”
Those from Sky Emperor Mountain dropped their jaws upon the news before turning to Ying Shuang with their disbelieving eyes. [What actually happened all this time?]
In that instant, Gu Changge grew fascinated.
Knowing the matter wouldn’t remain a secret, Ying Shuang nodded and decided to fess up. “Indeed, an accident occurred some time ago during my cultivation, which cost me a part of my memories.”
Since he was still in possession of his Godly Spirit Weapon, he was confident that none would suspect his identity. After all, the Godly Spirit Weapon, a godly artifact forged by Sky Emperor Ying himself, was the proof and recognition of his identity. With such a clarification, no one would dare to question his identity. Even Gu Changge, who knew his greatest secret, wouldn’t be so bold as to expose his origin.
After hearing Ying Shuang out, those from Sky Emperor Mountain were obviously distressed as he never mentioned such an occurrence, and the only reason he brought it up so suddenly was because he was forced to.
‘Forbidden Demonic Arts.’ The term instantly popped up in their minds, followed by irresistible dread. Prior to that, they all assumed Ying Shuang was simply framed, but right now, all the signs indicated that he bore an unshakeable connection to Forbidden Demonic Arts.
Even Ying Yu was anxious upon the realisation. [Brother’s hiding too many secrets! Does he intend to drag Sky Emperor Mountain down with him?]
Seeing as it was about time, Gu Changge excused himself with a smile without saying anything more.
“Farewell, Young Master Changge! We shan’t forget what you did for us today!” Those from Sky Emperor Mountain expressed their gratitude to Gu Changge for not only defending them, but also for opening their eyes.
Gu Changge responded with a smile and a piece of friendly advice. “Right, before I forget, keep your guard up, Brother Ying. Saintess Zijin might attack any time. She’s not as reasonable as I am.” Having said that, he took a step forward and the air turned blurry as he left. It was as if he merely came as a mediator, and asked Ying Shuang some questions while he was at it.
Indubitably, Ying Shuang was burdening himself with worries since Gu Changge never had the intention to expose his true identity. To Gu Changge, be it Ying Shuang or a lowly horse feeder, they simply served one purpose, to be his scapegoat. His goal was solely to firm up the suspicion on Ying Shuang as the Successor of Demonic Arts to the extent where Ying Shuang would never be able to clear his name.
Yet, Ying Shuang’s biggest fear was that Gu Changge might expose his identity, rather than being framed as the Successor of Demonic Arts. To him, nothing else was more important than his current identity.
<*Ding!* Ying Shuang the Fortuitous One, taking over an expert’s body, is being suspected by Sky Emperor Mountain and faces a major decrease in Fortuity…>
At the continuous notifications from the System, Gu Changge’s grin grew even deeper.
[What did Gu Changge mean exactly? He knows he’d only be trapping himself by exposing him, doesn’t he?] After Gu Changge’s figure vanished, Ying Shuang let out a sigh of relief, though his back was soaked in cold sweat. [What a terrifying man Gu Changge is! He didn’t even make a move, yet everyone was scared to death.]
Nevertheless, Ying Shuang wasn’t aware of the eyes of the people of Sky Emperor Mountain that were filled with doubt and fright when they looked at him. Even Ying Yu couldn’t help but raise her guard around him.
Meanwhile, the young prodigies nearby also revealed looks of discrimination as they eyes glistened. Naturally, they listened to the entire exchange between Gu Changge and Ying Shuang. [The Successor of Demonic Arts…]
Seemingly, Ying Shuang wouldn’t be able to shake off his connection with those words no matter how hard he tried to hide and refrained from using any of the Forbidden Demonic Arts. He wouldn’t be able to clear his name.
…
“You’ve been watching for so long. I believe it’s time you show yourself?” After leaving the region where Ying Shuang was, Gu Changge appeared on top of an isolated mountain as he calmly stated.
“So, that has been your goal all along.” Wang Zijin then appeared behind him with a face full of shock.
Truth be told, she didn’t go too far as she was observing Gu Changge’s actions in the dark, trying to figure out what his ulterior motive was. Therefore, she witnessed how Gu Changge drew certain words from Ying Shuang’s mouth, and those words were enough for Ying Shuang to permanently don the identity of the Successor of Demonic Arts.
As such, even as a transmigrator, Wang Zijin was awfully dumbfounded. Gu Changge’s methods exceeded what she could ever imagine. [This man is much more dangerous than the Successor of Demonic Arts!]
“So, what are your plans, Saintess Zijin?” At that moment, Gu Changge revealed a contemplative look.
“I shall wait for Prince Ying to expose himself and thoroughly deal with him, but I fear I’ll have to hand the task to Jiang Chuchu,” Wang Zijin answered after a moment of thought. To be fair, the reason she attacked Ying Shuang back then was mainly because of anger. In her opinion, in terms of defeating the Successor of Demonic Arts, Jiang Chuchu would be more proficient.
“But Jiang Chuchu went to where the Eternal Overcast is all by herself. I wonder how she is now. Should we go look for her? She might be facing danger as we speak.” After thinking for a while, she asked out of concern, oblivious to the relationship between Gu Changge and Jiang Chuchu.
[Theoretically, they should have met each other by now. Many think Jiang Chuchu and Gu Changge are good friends. Otherwise, she wouldn’t have praised and promoted him in the outside world. Though, whenever I mention his name around her, she would always put up this cold face, much colder than she usually is.]
“Oh, if that’s the case, I shan’t interfere then.” Hearing that, Gu Changge shook his head, as if he had other matters to tend to. In fact, he found a number of abominations with exceptional Talents, and knowing they were all in the Eternal Overcast Battlefield, he intended to take the opportunity to ascend to Intermediate Sacred Noble Realm.
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