Chapter 570: An Enigma That Had Confounded Him; A Competition Of Acting Skills

In the dark and damp dungeon, Jiang Chen gritted his teeth and clenched his fists so tightly that the sound of his knuckles cracking could be heard. His heart burned with fury as he glared at Gu Changge. "You shouldn't push people to their limits like this! I will not allow you to use Chuyue as leverage against me! I won't even consider your proposition. If you want to end my life, then do it. I'm not afraid of death."

Jiang Chen wanted to shred Gu Changge to pieces when he heard Gu Changge's cruel and mocking words toward Ji Chuyue, who had been reduced to a mere commodity by Gu Changge's callous tongue. His anger was further fueled by Ji Yaoxing's indifference. It broke his heart to see him turn a blind eye to his own sister's plight. 

"Is that so? It seems like you really have no feelings for Ji Chuyue." Gu Changge smiled as his gaze moved further downward from Ji Chuyue's face. In that moment, Ji Chuyue felt utterly exposed and vulnerable, as if she was being stripped naked. A chill ran through her body, causing her to shiver involuntarily.

"This is between you and me! What do you gain from taking advantage of her?" Jiang Chen's voice grew louder as he watched Ji Chuyue's frightened expression and trembling body. His heart ached at the sight of this kind woman being toyed by Gu Changge.

"You have a decision to make. If your heart truly yearns for Ji Chuyue, then it would be wise for you to take my words into consideration." Gu Changge reached out and lifted Ji Chuyue's chin, forcing her to meet his gaze.

"Young Master Gu…" Ji Chuyue felt a deep sense of humiliation. Tears welled up in her eyes, but she knew better than to resist or even entertain such thoughts. It was as Gu Changge had said, she truly wanted to refuse being reduced to a mere pawn to the Ji Family. She did not want to play this game of marriage, even if it meant refusing to become Gu Changge's concubine.

Despite her inner turmoil, Ji Chuyue couldn't help but remember Ji Yaoxing's words from a few days ago. Decision had already been made for her the moment she was born, and she had no control over it. With Gu Changge's immense power, even the Ji Family trembled in fear, let alone a powerless girl like herself.

"Rest assured, I shall spare his life for the time being. I sense that you do not wish to become my concubine, and I will not coerce anyone to act against their wishes. It would be best for you to relay your feelings to this man yourself…" Gu Changge maintained his smile as he gracefully released Ji Chuyue.

Upon hearing these words, Ji Chuyue's face remained ashen. She quickly shook her head and said, "No, it is a blessing for Chuyue to become Young Master Gu's concubine. How could I ever be unwilling?"

Gu Changge's eyes remained as still as a lake as a gentle smile graced his lips. "Your words contradict your true feelings. Your eyes have already betrayed you. As a lady of such breathtaking beauty, your gaze is an honest reflection of your heart."

"Young Master Gu, I speak with honesty. My words stem from the depths of my heart, and each one is nothing but the truth. This esteemed status is coveted by numerous prodigal damsels in the Upper Realm, and I feel nothing but immense gratitude for being chosen. To think that I would ever be unwilling is preposterous. I'm overjoyed beyond measure!" Ji Chuyue hurriedly shook her head and clarified, not wanting to further offend Gu Changge.

She knew her own family too well. Even if Jiang Chen were able to rescue their Prime Ancestor, they would never agree to her marriage with him. At best, they would select another woman from their lineage for him to wed.

Being chosen to become Gu Changge's concubine was a rare blessing, far surpassing the prospect of marrying other well-matched young prodigies. It was an opportunity that countless could only dream of and envy.

"Gu Changge, you despicable man! Stop forcing Chuyue! Let me have one night to contemplate your proposal, and I will provide you with an answer tomorrow morning," Jiang Chen interrupted Ji Chuyue as he heard her insincere words. His eyes burned with fury as he turned to Gu Changge.

He had no idea why Gu Changge was going to such great lengths to save the Prime Ancestor of the Ji Family, but he knew that he had no other choice at the moment. If he refused, he could be killed by Gu Changge, or spend the rest of his remaining life in this dungeon. Besides, he couldn't bear to watch Ji Chuyue suffer either.

"It appears that there may have been a misunderstanding. You are lending your assistance to the Ji Family, not me. As you may be aware, rescuing the Prime Ancestor of the Ji Family could potentially lead to you becoming a son-in-law of their esteemed family, which would also benefit you."

Gu Changge smiled. With a wave of his hand, he dismissed everyone, choosing not to continue harassing Jiang Chen. He had already accomplished his objective and was certain that Jiang Chen would agree to his proposal the next morning. Did Jiang Chen truly believe he could survive the perilous expedition to Kun Mountain? Such naivety was almost endearing.

After Gu Changge, Ji Chuyue, and Ji Yaoxing left, a chilling silence returned to the dungeon. Jiang Chen's eyes were cold as he leaned against the wall, taking deep breaths to quickly calm himself down. He conversed with the Artifact Spirit of the Celestial Boat of Creation in his mind, hoping to unravel the enigma that had confounded him.

"Artifact Spirit, what is Gu Changge's motive? It seems out of character for someone like him to go to such lengths to rescue the Prime Ancestor of the Ji Family. There must be some kind of catch."

<I am unable to figure out the true intention of his kindness either. He definitely harbors ulterior motives and does not genuinely want rescue Prime Ancestor Ji Family> the Artifact Spirit of the Celestial Boat of Creation replied with a solemn tone.

"Then, what should we do?" Jiang Chen took a deep breath as he activated his technique to heal his injuries.

<Your focus now must be on surviving Kun Mountain and finding a means of escape. Cooperating with Gu Changge is akin to courting danger. As soon as you set foot in Mountain, take every step caution. I will try create opportunities for escape by manipulating the prevailing Universal Great Shi arrays there,> the Artifact Spirit of the Celestial Boat of Creation said, extremely worried that its existence would be discovered by Gu Changge.

From the moment it laid eyes on Gu Changge, it sensed unparalleled danger from its very being. Subsequent events only served to confirm its initial impression. It was fortunate that Gu Changge remained unaware of its presence, believing instead that Jiang Chen possessed the Legacy of a Divine Source Master.

By the time Gu Changge and his companions exited the dungeon, the sun was setting in a breathtaking display of golden hues, while the autumn wind rustled through the trees. To their surprise, a graceful figure stood before them, as if awaiting their arrival.

It was none other than Xiao Ruoyin, a disciple of Skyward Schloss, who was known to share a close bond with Gu Changge. 

After exchanging a brief glance with Ji Yaoxing and Ji Chuyue, the two siblings swiftly departed, not daring to pry into the matter.

"Young Master Gu…" Xiao Ruoyin was dressed in a pristine white outfit, her black hair dancing in the wind behind her lithe figure. Her beautifully arched eyebrows, dainty nose and cherry red lips harmonized flawlessly with her porcelain skin, radiating an indescribable allure. Standing there, she appeared almost otherworldly.

Upon learning of her desire to see Gu Changge, the guard didn't hesitate to escort her to him, knowing full well of the intimate bond she shared with Gu Changge.

"What brings you here, Ruoyin?" Gu Changge inquired with a smile, despite already knowing her intention.

Xiao Ruoyin's gaze rested upon his face as she gave a firm nod, unafraid to reveal her purpose. "I heard that Young Master Gu has captured Jiang Chen."

"Oh, so you're here for Jiang Chen?" Gu Changge raised his eyebrows, intrigued by Xiao Ruoyin's sudden change in demeanor. He was well-informed about Xiao Ruoyin's meeting with Jiang Chen, and also aware of the detailed account that Jiang Chen had shared with her. Understandably, Gu Changge found Xiao Ruoyin's reactions to be a natural response to the situation. Even so, he still sensed that there was something different about her today. 

Despite her attempts to conceal it, Gu Changge still decided to investigate her Fortuity.

[Looks like I'm right.] A strange look flashed across Gu Changge's eyes before he quickly composed himself. [Judging from the sudden increase in her Fortuity, she should have regained a significant portion of her memories as the High Priestess of Destiny.]

"Ruoyin and Jiang Chen are old acquaintances. Seeing him being captured by Young Master Gu, I find myself unable to simply stand idly by and remain indifferent to his plight," she carefully explained while secretly observing Gu Changge's demeanor, so as to not raise any suspicion. Besides, her statement was impeccably within reason.

"You're worried that I will kill Jiang Chen?" With a playful smile, Gu Changge suddenly approached Xiao Ruoyin and placed his palm on her face. Xiao Ruoyin let out a soft hum in response and immediately stiffened. His touch left goosebumps on her skin but she quickly regained her composure.

"Rest assured, I shall spare his life on account of your relationship with him," Gu Changge said with a smile.

"Thank you, Young Master Gu."

Xiao Ruoyin felt a sense of relief wash over her after receiving Gu Changge's assurance. When she made her way here, she heard many rumors about Gu Changge's intention to bring Jiang Chen along with him to Kun Mountain.

With the Artifact Spirit of the Celestial Boat of Creation in his possession, Jiang Chen was thought to be a Successor of a Divine Source Master by many. With Kun Mountain being such a perilous place, having Jiang Chen's assistance would undoubtedly alleviate a great deal of difficulty. Therefore, she had to devise a plan to trail him discreetly, just in case he encountered any mishaps.

Gu Changge cast a glance at and asked with some interest, "Jiang Chen is currently being held captive in the dungeon. Would you be interested in paying him a visit?"

After a moment of contemplation, Xiao Ruoyin shook her head and said, "No need. Jiang Chen probably doesn't wish to see me right now. There's nothing for us to talk about." 

She didn't want to create any misunderstandings between herself and Gu Changge regarding her relationship with Jiang Chen. It was enough for her to know that Jiang Chen would be safe for the time being.

Gu Changge smiled understandingly and refrained from any further remarks. He then instructed the warden to provide proper care for Jiang Chen and ensure his survival in the harsh confines of the dungeon.

On their way back, Gu Changge casually asked with a faint smile on his face, "It's getting late, you will return to Skyward Schloss tomorrow, yes?"

"Yes, Ruoyin will return to Skyward Schloss tomorrow with the Elders. It's uncertain when I'll be able to see you again, Young Master Gu," Xiao Ruoyin nodded and said with a tinge of reluctance. Despite her inner turmoil, she followed him in silence, determined to maintain her previous persona to prevent Gu Changge from discovering she had regained her memories as the High Priestess of Destiny.

"Continue training rigorously. I hope you will be able to surprise me with your progress the next time we meet," Gu Changge said with a smile.

Xiao Ruoyin felt a chill down her spine, but gracefully said, "Ruoyin won't let you down, Young Master Gu."

The Nihility Destiny Physique, though only slightly awakened, allowed her to possess blood that was the rarest elixir with numerous benefits. It dawned upon Xiao Ruoyin that Gu Changge's insistence on her rigorous training was rooted in this fact. With this realization, she became even more vigilant, determined not to expose her awakened state to Gu Changge.

When they reached the palace, Xiao Ruoyin's mind was filled with apprehension. She lifted her gaze to the starry sky and said, "It's late, Ruoyin will take her leave now." 

She knew the longer she remained in Gu Changge's company, the more likely her secret would be discovered so it was best to distance herself from him as much as possible.

"Hmm, do you have any plans for tonight?" Gu Changge appeared to be surprised by Xiao Ruoyin's excuse to leave, as though he hadn't anticipated it.

Seeing Gu Changge's expression, Xiao Ruoyin was taken aback for a moment but she quickly snapped out of it. Cold sweat drenched the back of her clothes as she shook her head and clarified, "N-No… I just assumed that Young Master Gu will be busy with the discussion of the upcoming expedition to Mountain Kun, so…"

In the past, Xiao Ruoyin would never say something like that. Even if there were pressing matters, Gu Changge was always her priority. She would seize every opportunity to stay the night with him, especially when presented with such a golden opportunity. So, a slight variation in her reply could trigger Gu Changge's suspicion.

"What is there to discuss about the expedition to Kun Mountain? It's the affair of the Ji Family and has nothing to do with me." Gu Changge gently shook his head, a casual smile gracing his lips. He then reached out to tenderly caress her lovely face and said, "I cannot help but notice a hint of fear in your eyes. Has Jiang Chen said something to you?"

Upon hearing the question, Xiao Ruoyin felt a flutter of anxiety in her chest. Despite this, she was determined to act normal. She nestled her head tenderly against Gu Changge's chest and softly said, "Jiang Chen did talk negatively about you, but I believe there are valid reasons behind Young Master Gu's actions. I trust you."

"You trust me that much? Do you not harbor any fear that I may unexpectedly hurt you one day?" Gu Changge's smile was tinged with a curious glint in his eyes.

Xiao Ruoyin shook her head and said, "I have no such fear, Young Master Gu has generously bestowed everything I have today. If he chooses to hurt me one day, I will gracefully accept my fate."

"Haha, gracefully accept it huh…? How can I bear to hurt you after hearing that?" Gu Changge couldn't help but burst into laughter, greatly amused by Xiao Ruoyin's response. [Since you intended to compete with me in terms of how skilled we are in acting, let's see how long you can keep this up.]

Seeing that Gu Changge didn't display any signs of suspicion toward her, Xiao Ruoyin exhaled a deep breath of relief. She was the only one aware that her back was drenched in cold sweat. Despite this, the mere thought of what was to come left her feeling uneasy and helpless.

As the High Priestess of Destiny of the Immortal Palace, finding herself in such a predicament was nothing but fate's whimsical doing. In this moment, she wished she hadn't awakened the memories of her past life.