Chapter 1009: 370: The fate of the future has long been arranged, and the tool man who was used to the extreme
The faces of the ancestors of the Underworld Clan, who had recently taken on new physical bodies, reflected their grief and misery. With Ni Chen’s failure, even the position of Daoist would be lost to them. Not only was there no hope for the Underworld Clan’s revival, but they might also face true annihilation in this world.
It turned out to be a failure.
They murmured, their spirits seemingly drained as they grasped the weight of the situation.
Ni Chen’s revelation stirred an uproar in the hearts of the leaders and teachers of all ethnic groups. Their complexions changed drastically, shock evident on their faces as they processed the implications of his words.
Underworld Realm? Underworld Clan?
The ancient cultivator Yuan Chan wore a look of surprise, clearly taken aback by the revelation regarding Ni Chen. If Ni Chen hadn’t spoken up, even he would not have noticed the slightest anomaly.
Noticing the surprise on her elder sister Fen Ruo’s face, Qing Feng couldn’t help but ask, “Elder Sister, do you know about this group?”
“I’ve heard about the Underworld Clan from some experts in the Nine Heavens,” Fen Ruo replied thoughtfully.“They are said to be a very peculiar ethnic group. Their numbers are small, but their talents are incredibly strange and formidable. They can assume countless forms and possess a terrifying ability to seize bodies. There are even tales of their ancestors seizing the true Heavenly Dao of an ancient civilization, aiming to wield the power of heaven and act as its agent…”
“But eventually, this clan vanished into the mists of time for unknown reasons. There’s been no news of them since, and they likely faced extinction. However, the identity of the force that exterminated them remains a mystery.” Fen Ruo explained softly.
In the vast expanse of the world, the Underworld Realm was not particularly powerful. Its small number of clans limited its ability to compensate for the lack of high-end combat strength. However, many ancient real worlds might not necessarily surpass the Underworld Realm in terms of overall strength.
Outside the battlefield of the Quasi-Immortal Emperor, an uproar erupted, all stemming from Ni Chen’s frenzied revelation of his origins. Who would have anticipated that “Wang Wushang” had already been taken over by someone and was not a descendant of the previous Wang family from the Immortal Domain?
Furthermore, Ni Chen had intended to seize control of the entire Dao Chang Realm and was so close to succeeding. If it hadn’t been for the chaotic real thunder, the Ni Chen standing before them would have certainly displayed a different demeanor. At that moment, the Dao Chang Realm would have faced yet another horrific disaster.
Compared to the invasion of the immortal civilization army, which was a direct assault, Ni Chen’s secret plotting to occupy a portion of the real world was even more terrifying and nearly impossible to guard against. Even Gu Wuwang, Hei Ming, and other Dao Realm existences likely never anticipated such a scheme. Had the army of the immortal civilization not been defeated, the Dao Chang Realm would have faced chaos, caught between enemies on both sides.
Reflecting on this, many felt a cold sweat trickle down their backs.
Did the alliance lord consider this when he appointed this person as Daoist, or was everything part of his predictions and calculations?
At that moment, many sect masters suddenly thought of Gu Changge. Given their understanding of him, they found it highly unlikely that he would have overlooked Ni Chen’s plot. Yet, he not only established Ni Chen as the Daoist of the Heaven Slaying Alliance but also urged all ethnic groups to pool resources to aid his growth. What could be his intention and purpose behind all this?
Many people’s gazes shifted as they recalled the chaotic true thunder that Ni Chen mentioned when he failed to seize the Dao Chang Realm. Could it be that Gu Changge had long planned this, deliberately keeping a hand in reserve just to shatter Ni Chen’s last hope?
First, he provided him with enough hope to make him believe he had a chance of success. Then, at the last moment, he completely crushed that hope, letting him fall into the abyss.
Considering it this way, many believed it was indeed in line with Gu Changge’s usual style.
It was the same with the various races in the Upper Realm back then; they were all deceived.
As the leaders of all ethnic groups reflected on this, they couldn’t help but shake their heads and smile wryly, acknowledging that this was the most likely scenario. Some couldn’t suppress their glee at Ni Chen’s misfortune.
After all, this kind of situation didn’t directly affect them. From the perspective of bystanders, they could only see Ni Chen as pitiful and self-inflicted. He believed he had meticulously planned everything, only to realize he had been manipulated by Gu Changge all along without his knowledge.
What you say doesn’t matter.
You’re doomed in this battle. If you still want to fight, then I can only send you off one last time.
On the battlefield of the Quasi-Immortal Emperor, Gu Xian’er leaned on her sword, her blue hair fluttering in the wind. She didn’t pay any attention to Ni Chen’s crazed behavior; her tone was filled with confidence as she spoke. Ꞧ
She had always maintained an air of cold refinement, exuding an aura of immortality. However, Gu Changge knew that this was merely a façade. As soon as she opened her mouth, it was difficult to conceal her underlying arrogance.
Hehe, do you really think you can win against me this way? Take my position as Daoist and destroy my last hope? Do you think it’s all over so easily?
I’m telling you, this is just the beginning.
Ni Chen heard the murmurs around him but paid them no mind. However, Gu Xian’er’s words ignited a deep hatred and coldness in his eyes. To him, it was her interference and insistence on fighting for the position of Daoist that had exposed his identity. His animosity toward Gu Xian’er rivaled only that of Gu Changge.
Ni Chen’s words raised alarms among the onlookers. What did he plan to do? What confidence did he have left? Gu Wuwang, Hei Ming, and the others exchanged wary glances, frowning at his demeanor.
“This is the end of your bravado. Do you want to force me to take action?” Gu Wuwang replied indifferently from outside the battlefield of the Quasi-Immortal Emperor.
The terrifying aura of the Dao realm surged, instantly destabilizing the entire space-time universe.
Swish!!!
Ni Chen cast a cold glance across the battlefield of the Quasi-Immortal Emperor. In the next moment, a small tree swaying with majestic purple energy appeared in his hand. Strands of thick, mysterious purple aura hung down, intertwining around the tree, creating an ethereal spectacle. It distorted time and space, as if the long river of time itself had come to a halt.
This tree embodied primordial power, representing the very beginning of all things—the chaos before creation, the primordial world where the universe had yet to be divided.
The sight of this object captured the attention of many, including Gu Wuwang, Hei Ming, and others. Even they, with their vast experience, were intrigued, sensing that the tree contained profound truths about the Dao realm.
This revelation stirred old grudges between Hei Ming and Ni Chen; after all, Ni Chen had invested considerable thought and energy into obtaining and safeguarding the Hongmeng Myriad Root. As everyone watched Ni Chen prepare to sacrifice this tree, confusion filled the air—no one could discern his true intentions.
Ni Chen fixed a cold, hate-filled gaze on Gu Xian’er and spoke with a chilling smile,
“This is the Hongmeng Myriad Root. When I became a Daoist, Gu Changge personally gifted it to me. At the time, I thought he was being generous and concerned. But now, I realize the truth…”
He paused, a bitter edge to his voice.
“The germination of this thing requires constant nourishment from luck, never allowing it to slack for even a day. By making me the Daoist of the Heaven-Slaying Alliance, he intended to siphon the alliance’s luck to cultivate this treasure for you. Once it matures, it would serve as your wedding dress.”
Ni Chen couldn’t help but admire Gu Changge’s cunning.
“I have to admit, he had a well-laid plan. For you, he orchestrated this from the very beginning. But I saw through his facade long ago and prepared accordingly. This seedling has grown into the Primordial Tree, a vessel for my second soul…”
With a smirk, he continued, “Even if Gu Changge embedded numerous imprinting techniques within the Hongmeng Myriad Root, they are futile now. In the end, he has unwittingly aided my ascent.”
His words laid bare his disdain for Gu Changge, referring to him simply by his first name. Ni Chen had always been meticulous, especially after acquiring the Hongmeng Myriad Root; he had taken extensive precautions, fearing that Gu Changge would leave behind a mark or method to control him.
Afterward, although he didn’t notice any abnormalities, Ni Chen used the talents of the Underworld Clan to completely seize control of the Hongmeng Myriad Root, at a considerable cost. It was less of a second soul and more akin to a second clone. Due to the terrifying abilities of the Underworld Clan, even if this object had been secretly cursed or manipulated by Gu Changge, it would have no effect on him.
Even if Gu Changge’s true body were present, once Ni Chen took over, he would be powerless to stop it. This was the source of Ni Chen’s confidence.
“Originally, I planned to wait for this thing to fully mature into a Primordial Tree, using it as my anchor to cultivate my second clone. But now, with the injury of the Great Dao cutting off my last hope, I am more determined than ever,” he said, his gaze fixed on Gu Xian’er, sneering all the while.
“I will return from my cultivation and seek vengeance on you and Gu Changge.” Ni Chen had already resolved to sever his ties.
The Primordial Tree, a miraculous wonder of heaven and earth, was even more extraordinary than the World Tree and the Epoch Tree, which birthed all living beings.
He intended to use this as a foundation for his cultivation, confident that his future achievements would far surpass his current state. While nurturing the Primordial Roots, Ni Chen had sensed the profound truths of the Dao Realm contained within them, which could significantly aid anyone seeking to understand this realm and enhance their cultivation.
Unbeknownst to him, the essence of immortal matter and creation matter played a crucial role in the formation of the Hongmeng Myriad Root. If he had known, he would have grasped the true nature of the substance Gu Changge used to condense it.
For now, he only needed to use this root as a base for his cultivation. The moment he successfully merged with the world, he would wield power comparable to that of the Dao Realm. Although the journey was long, he was determined that it would one day come to fruition.
Outside the battlefield of the Quasi-Immortal Emperor, Ni Chen’s declarations once again left everyone stunned.
Once this extraordinary entity, coveted even by those in the Dao Realm, became his foundation, Ni Chen would inevitably rise again, posing a significant threat in the future. Gu Wuwang, Hei Ming, and the others furrowed their brows, already contemplating a decisive strike to eliminate Ni Chen.
However, Ni Chen appeared to have anticipated their intentions, sneering, “Before I spoke, I had already foreseen that you would act against me. Though the Primordial Tree is merely a seedling, its miraculous properties far exceed your imagination. Just now, I opened a passage through endless time and space, allowing me to escape before any of you can reach me.”
His words caused Gu Wuwang’s frown to deepen. “This guy is cunning. He must have been planning this all along, using his earlier words to set the stage for his escape. Even if we coordinate our attacks, we probably won’t be able to stop him. In this boundless time and space, with the protection of the sapling of the Primordial Tree, he can conceal his aura and elude detection.”
Another Daoist, Jiu Jianxian, who had remained silent until now, also frowned, sensing the disturbances and anomalies in time and space within the battlefield of the Quasi-Immortal Emperor.
Hei Ming frowned and asked, “Are we really just going to let him escape?”
Gu Wuwang shook his head, responding, “Don’t forget who left that Hongmeng Tree. Since Gu Changge entrusted it to Xian’er, it’s impossible for him to let this guy take it away. It’s just a fleeting moment of joy for Ni Chen.”
Seeing Gu Wuwang’s determination, both Hei Ming and Jiu Jianxian nodded in agreement, understanding the implications of his words.
On the battlefield of the Quasi-Immortal Emperor, Gu Xian’er frowned. Realizing the depth of Ni Chen’s hatred for Gu Changge, she tightened her grip on the dao sword in her slender hand. “You can’t even defeat me, and yet you talk of seeking revenge against Gu Changge. You clearly don’t understand your own limitations.”
“Besides, do you really think you know Gu Changge so well?” Her voice dripped with sarcasm, her crystal-clear eyes reflecting her disdain.
The moment Ni Chen sacrificed the seedlings of the Hongmeng Tree, she sensed a subtle connection forming between them. Gu Xian’er knew this was likely a contingency left by Gu Changge, but Ni Chen remained oblivious, believing he still had a way out and hope for a comeback.
“What do you mean?” Ni Chen shot her a cold glare.
Before Gu Xian’er could respond, Ni Chen’s expression shifted as he sensed that something was amiss.
The saplings of the Primordial Tree, which were once under Ni Chen’s control, suddenly soared into the air, bathed in a misty light. Each leaf resembled a crystal-clear ancient mirror, reflecting various images.
These ancient mirrors displayed Ni Chen’s figure, showcasing many scenes of him cultivating and plotting grand plans with his clansmen. It was as if the sapling of the Hongmeng Tree was revealing his past, but soon, these vivid images began to blur and fade into dimness, quickly disappearing from view.n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om
“What…?”
Ni Chen was momentarily stunned, a sense of unease creeping into his heart. It felt as if some terrifying and unspeakable force was stripping away his connection with the seedlings of the Primordial Tree.
Puff!
In an instant, his second incarnation crumbled. The terrifying backlash caused Ni Chen to spit out mouthfuls of blood, his face paling rapidly. At that moment, he heard the sharp crackling sound of his quasi-immortal emperor Dao Fruit shattering. With the collapse of his second incarnation, it exploded and disintegrated, vanishing from this realm in an instant.
“Impossible…”
“Why is this happening…?”
“My second incarnation…”
The sneer on Ni Chen’s face vanished completely, replaced by fear, unease, and disbelief. He couldn’t comprehend why the saplings of the Hongmeng Tree, which he believed he had under his control, would suddenly erase all traces and connections to him.
Watching the scene unfold on the Quasi-Immortal Emperor battlefield, the leaders of all ethnic groups showed no surprise, as if they had anticipated this outcome. Many felt a chill run down their spines, and their fear of Gu Changge deepened even further.
“Fate… this is the power of fate…”
Ni Chen suddenly laughed bitterly, a grim realization dawning on him. “I see now, Gu Changge, you are so ruthless. Not only did you make me warm and nourish the Hongmeng Tree for her, but you also forced me to block the fatal catastrophe that should have befallen her, taking on the injury for her…”
At that moment, he understood the truth: the Hongmeng Myriad Root had been intertwined with Gu Xian’er’s fate since its inception, existing solely for her. It was as if it were a token Gu Changge had left for her. Meanwhile, Ni Chen’s own fate had been manipulated by Gu Changge, turning him into a mere variable in a grand scheme.
This manipulation rendered him invisible to the powerful figures of the Dao Chang Realm, including Gu Wuwang, Hei Ming, and others, who could not detect any abnormalities. Consequently, the moment he touched the Dao Realm, his “false variable” bore the catastrophic burdens meant for Gu Xian’er, the “true variable.” T
his resulted in his Dao fruit shattering and inflicted upon him an irreversible injury from the Dao.
From the moment Gu Changge had appointed him as a Daoist, his destiny had been meticulously orchestrated, using him to the utmost as a mere pawn. Ni Chen smiled bitterly, overwhelmed with unwillingness and despair, never anticipating that the truth could be so cruel.