Translator: Pres Proofreader: Silavin “The construction of the True Immortal Academy is in progress. With Brother Gu’s Talent, he is sure to go. We will be able to see him soon. At that time, we could ask him about these things.” Currently, inside the Immortal Ye Family, Ye Langtian, was walking through the main hall with his hands behind his back. He had a thoughtful glimmer in his eyes, as his expression was solemn. “Brother, if this is true, it truly is terrifying new. Just the Successor of Demonic Arts alone is already terrifying” Walking beside him was Ye Liuli. She also wore a solemn expression. It was clear she was feeling gloomy, shocked by something that had happened recently. “I know. This is just too astonishing. That’s why, I am being so cautious about it. It definitely needs to be discussed with Brother Gu. It is possible this is related to the Successor of Demonic Arts.” Ye Langtian sighed. The expression he wore was heavy, as he rubbed his temple. “But this possibility is too small. Furthermore, Prince Ying has not left Sky Emperor Mountain during this period of time. It is also extremely far away from Sky Emperor Mountain…” Hearing this, even Ye Liuli shuddered. She could not help but ask, “Brother, do you think this is related to the organisation behind the Successor of Demonic Arts?” Ye Langtian shook his head. “It should not be. Throughout the ages, in every era, there is only one Successor of Demonic Arts. Those that chose to support him have their own means. They do not have the same abilities as the Successor of Demonic Arts. It is just impossible for another Successor of Demonic Arts to appear.” His heart felt heavy. The appearance of the Successor of Demonic Arts was terrifying enough. His appearance alone had already caused a storm in the Upper Realm, and made many tremble in fright. Now that Ye Langtian discovered traces of another Successor of Demonic Arts, how could he possibly stay calm? This was an existence that was warned to be extremely dangerous in the ancient books, someone whose background was unfathomable and terrifying. After knowing of this incident, Ye Langtian could feel his blood turn cold, unsure what he should do next. Some time ago, he and Ye Liuli went to the auction in an ancient city. They went there because they had heard that an ancient weapon had been unearthed, and was being auctioned there. They never expected that they were too late by half a step. By the time they reached, the ancient weapon had already been stolen. Naturally, both of them did not want to give up on the ancient weapon. After all, it had deep origins, and a mysterious background. Thus, they gave chase. However, they encountered something that shocked them to the core. In the middle of a barren mountain, there was a mysterious man. They saw him holding the ancient weapon from the auction, devouring the Source of a corpse. The man seemed to have sensed the two approaching, and was vigilant. Before they could get close, he had already vanished. Naturally, seeing such a scene, it caused chills to run down their spine. Even as they stood there, they could feel their limbs shivering. [If that was not Demonic Arts, then what is?] Fortunately, that mysterious man did not attack them, and chose to quickly flee. Otherwise, they were not certain they could survive against the Successor of Demonic Arts. Besides Ye Langtian, the only other person who knew about this was Ye Liuli. They had not even mentioned a word about this incident to the Elders of their Family. Ye Langtian felt that this matter was too important, and could not make up his mind on who he should share it with. In fact, the only person that came to mind was Gu Changge. After all, Gu Changge has had a lot of dealings with the Successor of Demonic Arts. Thus, he should have a deep understanding of them and know what to do. “The Upper Realm is going to get more chaotic from here on out. Who knows what kind of monster or ghost will appear next…” Ye Langtian sighed and continued. “At this time, Brother Gu will need to be the backbone and take charge of the overall situation.” Ye Liuli nodded and agreed with his sentiment. … “Fellow Daoists, you no longer need to accompany me. I’m going to the Immortal Gu Family. I need to visit the Young Master Changge. I heard that he has left retreat. I have some things to discuss with him.” At this time, Yan Ji, whose face was blurred and covered by a layer of mist, stood inside a pagoda on a divine boat. It seemed as if she was standing in another world. When she spoke, her voice was calm and indifferent. It was like the chimes of nature, it was pleasant to the ears. Naturally, she was speaking to the numerous young prodigies behind her. They were a group of young prodigies, filled with both genders. Many stood at the apex and they all hailed from various factions. They all wore treasured artifacts, and were all powerful figures. They were definitely outstanding individuals even within the Upper Realm. When they heard the Successor of the Mortal Palace had descended to the world in search of the Mortal One’s reincarnation, and also conveniently was investigating the Successor of Demonic Arts, these group of people willingly volunteered. Without need a word from Yan Ji, they became her escorts, guarding her against any potential sneak attacks from the horrendous Successor of Demonic Arts. Thus, during this period of time, Yan Ji frequently saw many different young prodigies from various factions. All of them held her in high regard, some even admired her. Nonetheless, when in front of her, they dared not act rashly and drew a line. They knew that she was someone who they could only see from a distance, and could not get too close to. As the Successor of the Mortal Palace, her strength was unquestionable. Many young prodigies could not even see through her cultivation level in the first place. Even if there was someone who dares challenge her, it was obvious that this person would be sent flying several thousand kilometres away with a simple flick of her wrist. Thus, it was clear she wielded strength admired by everyone! Hearing Yan Ji’s words, many young prodigies have mixed feelings. Some felt uncomfortable, while some envious. In their eyes, the Successor of the Mortal Palace was like a fairy that stood aloof even above the Nine Heavens. She was someone whose status was unquestionable, and wielded terrifying strength. Even they, who had the support of their might faction, could not compare to her. They could only continue to watch her from a distance, without being able to approach her. In fact, if she were to bring them up, just mutter their name, they would feel extremely flattered. Such a person was currently talking about a young man, and she held him in such high esteem. This young man was even going to be visited by her after he had left retreat. It was only natural for them to become jealous of him, enough to make their eyes turn green with envy. If it was an ordinary man, who had no great virtues nor ability, would he be graced by a fairy like her? However, the young man the Successor of the Mortal Palace was talking about, was none other than Gu Changge. He was the man recognized to be the greatest within the younger generation, a man others worship! Since it was none other than Gu Changge, her words seemed natural. As if it was only right to hold him in high esteem. Thus, even when they felt unwilling to accept it, they had no choice but to stay silent and bury such emotions deep in their hearts. They even had to force out smiles. “If that’s the case, Saintess, we will no longer disturb you. Just in front of us is already the territory of the Immortal Gu Family.” “Word is that Young Master Changge has left his retreat. It will certainly be much easier to discuss about matters regarding the Successor of Demonic Arts with him.” “Yeah, after all, it is Young Master Changge we are talking about. After he exited from his retreat, his strength is bound to improve. I can’t even begin to imagine just how strong he had gotten. I’m afraid we will never be able to catch up to him…” A group of young prodigies opened their mouths, one after another. They were in awe of Gu Changge, and none dared to say anything disrespectful about him. “It seems that Brother Changge is held in high regard in all of your hearts. When I get the chance to meet him, I must certainly share it with him.” Hearing all of them praise Gu Changge, Yan Ji could not help but make a small smile. An extremely rare sight. When they heard this, the people present had their hearts jumped. From how she said it, it seems as though the Successor of the Mortal Palace and Young Master Changge were very close. When they thought about it further, it did not seem to be that strange. After all, Gu Changge had spent a lot of time and energy fighting against the Successor of Demonic Arts. Thus, as the Successor of the Mortal Palace, who shouldered the heavy responsibility of maintaining world peace, she also needed to deal with the Successor of Demonic Arts. It was only natural for them to be close to one another. Their eyes lit up, and they spoke again. This time, all kinds of flattery and awe-inspiring words emerged one after another. They hoped that Yan Ji would mention them, and what they said to Gu Changge. This scene made Yan Ji’s eyes flash with an unusual colour. Even her small smile became deeper. [It seems like Young Master’s grace has touched the hearts of many youths.] Soon, the news that the Successor of the Mortal Palace visiting Gu Changge again spread like wildfire. Naturally, be it Gu Changge or the Successors of the Mortal Palace, they were all fervently being paid attention to. The meeting between the two of them marked great significance to the younger generation of the Upper Realm. … Inside the Immortal Wang Family, in a magnificent and simple hall, Wang Zijin was sitting by the window. She looked absolutely bored as she was hugging her legs, chin resting on her knees, as her long hair flowed. “For Jiang Chuchu, with that personality of hers, would she actually take the initiative to visit Gu Changge the second time?” She was taken aback when she heard the news. For her, it did not make sense. [In Jiang Chuchu’s eyes, there are only three important things. Cultivation, maintaining world peace, and the responsibility of being the Successor of the Mortal Palace. That’s why, I often say I need to find a man for her to marry. She only cares about those three things. After cultivating with her for more than ten years, how can I not know what kind of person she is? That’s why this piece of news seems all the more strange…] Wang Zijin frowned. [Could it be because after her first visit to see Gu Changge, she had learnt a lot about the Successor of Demonic Arts, and had plans on visiting him again to discuss it some more? Argh. Even as a transmigrator, nothing from my previous life actually helps me solve this. Is it really possible for that cold iceberg of a woman to melt?] As Wang Zijin could not help but ponder over this, she moved and left the hall. She intends to seek out Jiang Chuchu, to ask about the situation. Ever since she had left the Mortal Palace on her own volition, they have not seen each other. … “Young Master, that is pretty much what had happened during this period of time. No one doubted my identity. Naturally, it is thanks to that Mortal Command Token you gave me. Nonetheless, it seems that my actions have aroused the suspicion of many. After all, I am not a true Successor of the Mortal Palace, and all my actions seem to be aimless. In fact, many would question why I am working so hard when it would obviously be fruitless.” Within a palace, Yan Ji was giving a report in regards to what had happened over the course of this period of time. Meanwhile, Gu Changge was just smiling while he quietly listened. “It must have been hard for you, pretending to be someone else.” “It wasn’t hard.” Yan Ji’s clear eyes fluttered and she shook her head. “It is my honour to be able to help you.” “Though you claim it was not hard, I am well aware that this matter required you to always be on your guard. I know that it was not easy. I even feel apologetic that I made you do this.” Gu Changge then smiled and continued. “From now on, you don’t have to go anywhere. Just stay by my side.” With a wave of his hand, many cultivation resources emerged. Hundred thousand year old Sacred Herbs, a large number of Sacred Pills, Celestial Spirits and etc. They were all made available to Yan Ji. She had been helping him all this while and this way his way of showing gratitude. She was currently in the Sacred Lord Realm. Thus, it would be difficult for her to breakthrough, and she would require a lot of time to do so. However, for the time being, he had nothing for her to do. Since she would basically have no work, it would be better to give her a vacation, and let her focus on cultivating. [There is no way I can force someone to keep working for me without giving them some benefits. Even if I have no other plans for her, I cannot be that stringy.] “Thank you, Young Master.” Yan Ji naturally understood what Gu Changge meant, and was moved by it. [He has always treated me well. Always polite and courteous. This is definitely not an attitude a Master has towards his servant. In fact, no matter when or what happens, there is always a calm and considerate atmosphere between us. That’s why I’m willing to follow him. Sometimes, I wonder if I had not chosen to follow him, where would I be?] Afterwards, Yan Ji left the Mortal Command Token behind and left. Meanwhile, Gu Changge entered his Inner World. “Here, I’m giving this back to you.” He said as waved the plain yet mysterious Mortal Command Token in his hand. He was looking at Jiang Chuchu, who was clearly vigilant of him, and couldn’t help but smile, “Do I look like some kind of beast? Why are you looking at me like that?” Jiang Chuchu had also noticed the Mortal Command Token in his hand. He had taken it from her using shameless and despicable means, and now he wants to give it back to her? Why? Regardless of how she thought about it, an answer did not pop up. “I don’t want it, Gu Changge. Keep it for yourself.” Jiang Chuchu coldly stared at him, not wanting this token at all. Gu Changge seemed surprised, and said to himself, “As the Successor of the Mortal Palace, you don’t even want this Mortal Command Token anymore. Chuchu, it is a huge crime to deceive your Masters and Ancestors. If they were to find out, they will definitely get angry at you. Just listen to me. Just take it. It’s yours in the first place.” “Shut up. You resort to sophistry every single time.” Hearing his shameless words, Jiang Chuchu couldn’t help her breathing from becoming heavy. She could not maintain her calm like before. “Also, don’t call me Chuchu! We are not that close!” “Then, what should I call you?” Gu Changge said while his smile continued to widen. “Besides, aren’t we close?” He asked as he continued to wave the Mortal Command Token in front of her eyes. Jiang Chuchu coldly stared at him coldly without moving. “I thought you had thought things through during this period of time, and I was planning to let you out. But, your attitude now makes it difficult for me.” Seeing how she acted, Gu Changge sighed and said as if he had a headache. “I don’t want to kill you, but you just won’t listen to me. You don’t even bother to understand my good intentions…” “Good intentions? Where?” Jiang Chuchu’s attitude became more mild. However, her words were still cold, mainly because she was still angry with Gu Changge’s shameless words just now. “Since you don’t believe in my good intentions, then forget it. Have you thought things through? My patience is running thin. Well, whatever. From today onwards, you are free to do as you please.” “Do remember, you are still the Successor of the Mortal Palace. You need to uphold justice, and maintain world peace. You need to ensure that all living beings can live in peace, and continue to search for the Mortal One’s reincarnation. You also need to track down the Successor of Demonic Arts.” “Once you are free, I won’t care about you anymore. Be it life or death, it’s all up to you. There will no longer be any connection between us. In fact, it doesn’t matter whether we are strangers or enemies in the future. If you want to expose my true identity, that’s fine, as long as you have made your decision…” Gu Changge made a calm smile, and did not seem to care about how Jiang Chuchu’s face continued to be increasingly pale. “There is nothing between us anymore?” After hearing these words, especially this sentence, Jiang Chuchu’s face turned pale. Her fingers couldn’t help grasping her dress. [There will no longer be any connection between us? Does that mean, once I’m released, he will longer care about me in the future? That I am free to continue being the Successor of the Mortal Palace, and can go back to restore it? I can do what I should do?] [If he no longer cared about me, about my life or death, then, be it if I beg for death or lift, he would not bat an eye… Isn’t that what I wanted? But… why? Why does none of this make me happy? Just what does he mean by no longer caring about me?] Jiang Chuchu’s expression became even colder, “Gu Changge, do you really think that after you let me go, everything that happened between us can be erased? It’s impossible.” “Nothing is impossible. What do you take me for? I’m not going to kill you. Instead, I’m letting you go. Is this not the most well-meaning thing I can possibly do for you?” Gu Changge was not surprised by what she said, and his expression still remained indifferent. Jiang Chuchu looked at him coldly. She snatched the Mortal Command Token from his hand, and cursed, “I will hate you for the rest of my life.” “There are many who hate me, you are not the only one.” He made a light smile, as if he did not care. He knew that Jiang Chuchu had actually already made her decision. No matter how feisty she was being, she had already decided to betray those in the Mortal Palace. “Gu Changge, you despicable villain, irresponsible bastard!” Jiang Chuchu clenched her teeth, complexion pale. “Look. If you’ve made your choice earlier, it would not have come to this. After all, a person’s patience… is limited.” “Saintess Chu Chu.” The smile on Gu Changge’s face had disappeared. After his final statement, it was as if he truly no longer cared about her. Just right in front of him, a silver door appeared. He took the lead to walk out of it. Jiang Chuchu was stunned when she heard him greet her like that. She was so stunned that was somewhat at a loss. [I’m free now, but why can’t I be happy about this?] [In the end, is he not referring to what he said that day? I knew It was impossible for someone like him to have good intentions. The Mortal One is gone now. However, I can’t allow the Mortal Palace to fall. Do I really have no choice but to get a new Mortal One, though it contradicts my belief and teachings?] In fact, she knew what she had to do but was purposefully making it difficult for Gu Changge. That was why he said something about running out of patience. Soon, Jiang Chuchu, caught unaware, left somewhere outside of the Immortal Gu Family’s territory. When she looked back, Gu Change’s figure was nowhere to be seen. [He really let me go… It’s like he said, it is as though he had thrown away something burdensome…] [Why not, right?] Jiang Chuchu thought, as she could not help but reveal her grievances on her face. However, soon, all those emotions quietly disappeared. Her face became like a block of eternal ice, completely cold. “Saintess?” Seeing her appear, an old woman, who had been following the Successor of the Mortal Palace, was taken aback and puzzled. She was clearly unaware that the previous Successor of the Mortal Palace was a fraud. “Let’s head back to the Mortal Palace.” Jiang Chuchu calmly said, without explaining anything else. [As Gu Changge said, with my current ability, I cannot change things. I had to find the Mortal One, but he had already been killed by Gu Changge. So, what else can I do?] [Gu Changge, he really has calculated everything. He would never do something foolish and let me go just like that…]