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Translator: Fate
Proofreader: Dhael Ligerkeys & Silavin
“What a man of quality the constructor is.” Gu Changge stood on a high platform and stared downward with his arms behind his back. Seeing the enormous crowd of visiting cultivators, he subconsciously expressed his astonishment as he was pleased by the feeling of watching over all lives as if they were insignificant ants. Inspired, he thought it would be a good idea to rehire workers to construct a building similar to Starsnatcher Schloss for himself when he returned to the Beyond, but grander and taller, of course. Possessing such a position and identity, Gu Change knew precisely how to enjoy himself.
“As long as you are satisfied, Gu Changge. Starsnatcher Schloss was constructed by one of our family leaders specifically to receive predominant figures like an Archbishop or even an Emperor,” Lin Qiuhan beamingly explained. If it weren’t for her connection with Gu Changge, even she would never have the opportunity to come to Starsnatcher Schloss.
“Quite impressive. This tower’s significance overshadows all of our existences, but still, it’s wondrous…” Gu Changge said with a smile. His plan was simple, but insightful. As a matter of fact, the reason he had Lin Qiuhan take him for a walk around the ancient city was undoubtedly to observe what level of Alchemy she had achieved, so he could strategize how to cultivate her skills if he were to bring her along upon his return to the Beyond.
Although Gu Changge’s background was definitely terrorizing, it was extremely complicated, which even Ming Lao, as an outsider serf, was restricted from any interaction and comprehension. Even the masters of Alchemy from the Beyond lacked disciples who possessed alarming Talents of Alchemy like Lin Qiuhan. As such, he attempted to figure out ways to bring Lin Qiuhan to the Beyond, and with him backing her up, his dreams of controlling the masters of Alchemy might just come true. Therefore, preparation was crucial.
Needless to say, Gu Changge’s other intention was to lure Lin Qiuhan in so he could have her on his strings as soon as possible. By then, he’d be able to indulge in a thousand Fatums. Fortunately for him, Lin Qiuhan was awfully innocent given how she so quickly switched sides upon Gu Changge’s sweet-talking, as if her heart was virtually his.
In fact, what Lin Tian told her was indeed correct. As the antagonist, Gu Changge indubitably held no kind intentions. That being said, he would still generously take care of his own people. Although he bore no ill intention toward Lin Qiuhan, and even wished to help her grow, he figured he could take advantage of her for the time being.
“Overshadows our existence… Prince Gu, what does training mean to you?” Upon those words, Lin Qiuhan’s eyes—filled with wonders—brightened up.
“To me, training is merely a struggle for humanity, a living flesh struggling in the mortal realm to cross the sea of suffering toward eternity.” Saying that, Gu Change revealed a faint, gentle smile. Of course, he meant none of those words as they were merely pretense. To be honest, training for him meant nothing but upgrading his power level.
“Sea of suffering? Eternity?” Somewhat impressed, Su Qingge was enthralled by Gu Changge’s speech.
“Prince Gu, your understanding is indeed unique, but ambiguous at the same time…” Lin Qiuhan replied. Along the way to Starsnatcher Schloss, Gu Changge could always relate to what she said and responded with such discerning replies, which made her more impressed as her admiration for him deepened. And this exchange regarding training opened her eyes despite being an elder of an academy.
[‘A living flesh struggling to cross the sea of suffering toward eternity.’ These words are unheard of. Training in the Beyond must be beyond what my mind can fathom.]
“Prince Gu, about Tian, it was thanks to you that I’m finally awake from the illusion he had me under.” At that moment, as if Lin Qiuhan thought of something, her eyes grew dull and sad. After all, she always cared about the previous Lin Tian. Definitely, his attempt to assassinate Gu Changge was unforgivable, but she felt relief when she found out the killer wasn’t the real Lin Tian. Otherwise, she would be too embarrassed to face Gu Changge.
“I was simply thinking out loud. I’ve never expected things to turn out this way,” Gu Changge smilingly remarked.
“Back then, I had my suspicion that something was off with Tian’s soul, but when I was going to question him, all the disturbance started,” Lin Qiuhan remorsefully replied.
“Oh, by the way, there’s something I must remind you, Lady Lin.” Gu Changge’s smile grew engaging.
“Please, Prince Gu.” Lin Qiuhan turned to him. [It must be important for Prince Gu to bring this up himself.]
“Pay close attention to Lin Tian’s body. I reckon his soul wasn’t just being manipulated, but also replaced. There’re too many techniques in the world that do that. Besides, resurrection, to be honest, happens more often than we’d expect.” As he was speaking, a skeptical expression surged on his face.
Lin Qiuhan was dumbfounded. [Resurrection? Is that even possible? Tian obviously lost his soul at the brink of death, but based on what Prince Gu said, things are certainly odd. Did Tian actually fake his death?]
“But of course, that’s just an inference, so it’s best we keep an eye out for it.” Gu Changge then chuckled. Earnestly, he wanted Lin Qiuhan to witness Lin Tian’s ‘resurrection’ in person, and thereupon, severing the final attachment she had for her brother. Essentially, Gu Changge no longer had any use for Lin Tian.
…
All of a sudden, a commotion was heard from outside of Starsnatcher Schloss.
“Prince Gu, a group of youthful talents from various forces of Middle State and Eastern Barren wish to see you,” the Lin Family elder who accommodated Gu Changge reported courteously.
With that, Gu Changge slightly tensed his brow. Although he was reluctant initially, he felt rather bored with nothing to do, after which he nodded his head. “Let them in.” Hopefully, the group of youthful talents could bring him some joy. Very soon, a big party of extraordinary, mighty-looking young men and women, under the elder’s guidance, showed up with respect on their faces.
“Greetings, Prince Gu.” Gu Changge’s main lapdog from Eastern Barren, Chu Xuan the Supreme Stygian Saint, who was among the group, hastily greeted him with utmost gratification. Apart from him, there was also a group of talents with familiar faces since they were on the same flying ship as Gu Changge on the journey to the Middle State.
The second group would be talents from the Middle State. In that instant, their hearts were filled with astonishment and thrill as it was their first time experiencing close-up interaction with the young master. At his godly aura, they couldn’t help feeling admiration for him.
“Honored to meet you, Prince Gu.” Even Jin Yang who was skeptical toward Gu Changge felt compelled to take a bow.
“You may drop the courtesy.” Sitting on the primary seat, Gu Changge subtly nodded his head with a calm expression. He was unexpectedly amiable, and many found comfort in that. It was as the rumor mentioned—the young master wasn’t hard to socialize with.
Accordingly, the mass of youthful talents introduced themselves before presenting their skills in order to impress Gu Changge, flaunting their talents as much as they could. Gu Changge would nod and smile from time to time, which gave the youthful talents a boost of pride.
The female talents, on the other hand, bore gratifying looks and turned themselves into bootlickers. Seeing that, Lin Qiuhan and the rest were dazed. The young women who claimed to be as charming as the immortals were now nothing but gratifying servants, which Lin Qiuhan and the rest found bewildering.
Among all of them, Lin Qiuhan felt the deepest impact to her identity as was similar to the female youthful talents. Despite that, Gu Changge’s behavior toward her was remarkably different from how he treated those female youthful talents. Discovering this, she suddenly felt more pampered than ever as she realized how Gu Changge perceived her distinctively.
Thanks for the chapter!