I Truly Am The Villian Chapter 2232: 2231: The Evil in Human Hearts and the Goodness of Conscience

Chapter 2231: The Darkness in Human Hearts and the Light of Conscience

“The heavens and the earth provided them a path to ascend, but alas, that Sunflower Demon did not value it.

He found absorbing the essence of sunflowers too sluggish and yearned for a realm where he could advance thousands of miles in a single stride.

Thus, he commenced absorbing the spirit of all living things.”

“All creatures whose spirits were consumed even lost the very qualification to re-enter the cycle of reincarnation.”

Xu Zimei recounted with a measured tone.

This was all the intelligence he had gleaned from the workings of the Heavenly Dao.

It could be said that nothing transpiring within the vastness of Heaven and Earth escaped his all-seeing gaze.

Naturally, should he ever depart the Divine Continent, the world’s operations would proceed according to established laws.

It would no longer bend to anyone’s whim.

Much like the current Nine Domains World, as long as one did not defy the heavens, the Heavenly Dao would refrain from intervening.

However, the Heavenly Dao of the present Nine Domains World has progressed with such rapidity that it has developed an insatiable desire for dominion.

It gave rise to organizations such as the Holy Court, tasked with overseeing the entirety of the world.

……

“As of now, that vile Sunflower Demon has claimed fifteen thousand lives,” Xu Zimei declared.

“The Sunflower Demon wields considerable power and currently lords over a vast territory, with no one daring to challenge its authority.”

Upon hearing this, Chaos let out a profound sigh.

He seemed to grasp Xu Zimei’s underlying motive for instituting the Endless Hell’s stringent rules.

A mere Sunflower Demon could perpetrate such relentless slaughter, growing ever more formidable, with no authority to mete out punishment.

How many such abominations lurked between Heaven and Earth?

If, over time, humanity became lost in this bloody pursuit of power, what kind of desolate world would it devolve into?

They must be instilled with fear.

Yet, the chosen method had to align with the principles of Heaven.

Indeed, the Way of Causality was a stroke of unparalleled genius!

Chaos then shifted his gaze towards the third depicted scene.

In stark contrast to the initial two, whether it was the Man-Eating Demon Flower or the Sunflower Demon, this third tableau was demonstrably more heinous.

It portrayed a colossal giant, rivaling a mountain peak in sheer mass.

Standing easily a hundred meters tall, its form was enveloped in rolls of flabby flesh.

When it settled down, the fat upon its body quivered, reminiscent of a towering mountain apex.

Its skin possessed a distinct cyan hue.

The hair upon its head seemed to have been violently electrified, erupting outwards in a wild mane.

Most striking were its eyes, a pair of abyssal black orbs that seemed to harbor a maniacal, untamed ferocity.

Its formidable claws resembled those of a predatory beast, and from the very inception of the third scene’s unfolding,

this gargantuan creature had already embarked on a feast of human flesh.

A scene of unspeakable bloodshed and barbarity.

“Governor Lu, a dignitary from one of the thirty-six human cities, a governor whose heart was that of a beast concealed beneath a veneer of humanity.”

“His cultivation was fueled by the consumption of people, yet his malevolence was not solely of his own making.

He possessed a remarkable talent for leveraging his authority, meticulously nurturing a significant contingent of Death Warriors. He required no personal exertion, as a ceaseless stream of living beings was provided daily for his consumption.”

“He held the governorship for eighteen years, during which time he consumed upwards of seventy thousand souls.

While individual wickedness is abhorrent, the ability to manipulate power and forge alliances in depravity is exponentially worse.”

Xu Zimei articulated with unwavering calmness.

“Between these three individuals, whom do you deem the most wicked?”

“All of them are deserving of death,” Chaos responded without hesitation.

“Yet, among extreme evils, there is a singular preeminence,” Xu Zimei countered.

“Boss, you must have a discernible preference in your heart, correct?” Chaos inquired.

“I wish to ascertain your perspective,” Xu Zimei stated.

He, of course, had his own judgment.

However, certain matters could not be precipitated.

Chaos engaged in profound contemplation for a considerable duration.

Finally, he articulated his assessment, “Firstly, concerning this Man-Eating Demon Flower, nurtured by the very essence of Heaven and Earth, it was bestowed the gift of sentience, and a glorious Great Dao ought to have awaited it.

Yet, it deviated from its ordained path; this transgression stems from a feeble resolve, a failure of gratitude, and ultimately, an act of defiance against Heaven and Earth.

“Then, there is the Sunflower Demon, which devours the spirit of all existence; this fiend embodies the pinnacle of evil, utterly extinguishing any possibility of reincarnation.

“The spirit of all things originates from Heaven and Earth, and no entity possesses the right to usurp it. This act is akin to pilfering from Heaven and Earth to sustain oneself; it constitutes a grave offense.

“As for Governor Lu, his depravity is even more profound, for he weaponized his authority for personal gain, not only perpetuating evil himself but also ensnaring those in his vicinity into its embrace.

The devastation wrought upon a region’s populace adds significantly to his transgressions.”

Having spoken thus, Chaos emitted another weary sigh.

He continued, “If you were to ask me, can this so-called evil possess varying degrees of severity or distinction?”

“The ultimate evil in this world is not confined to a single person or entity.

Rather, it is the inherent darkness that resides within the heart of every individual.”

Xu Zimei found himself taken aback by Chaos’s perspicacity.

Indeed, his assessment resonated deeply with the sentiments harbored within his own heart.

Ultimate evil represented the profound darkness ensconced within the human psyche.

It was not merely a matter of an individual or an object.

“I believe I shall require your assistance in the gathering of these embodiments of ultimate evil.”

Xu Zimei declared.

He extended his right hand towards the celestial expanse.

The very fabric of the world seemed to tremble as if the Great Dao itself stirred.

Tendrils of the Great Dao's power converged into Xu Zimei's outstretched palm.

They then gathered, solidifying into a globular form.

This sphere shimmered with an amber luminescence, radiating an ancient and formidable aura of the Great Dao.

Xu Zimei presented the sphere to Chaos.

"This," he declared, "is a seal I've forged with the Power of the Great Dao, specifically designed to bind malevolent thoughts."

"Your mission is to traverse the realms, seeking out the most corrupted locales from those consumed by evil intentions, ultimately to coalesce into an object of ultimate wickedness."

Upon hearing Xu Zimei's instructions, Chaos accepted the sphere.

With a slight inclination of his head, he responded, "Boss, rest assured, I will accomplish this swiftly."

Indeed, entrusting this task to Chaos was an inspired choice.

After all, the collection of wicked thoughts is no simple feat.

It necessitates not only a strong will but also absolute power.

Lacking sufficient might would risk one becoming merely another lost soul at the mercy of the wicked.

In subduing these evildoers and gathering their tainted thoughts, Chaos stood as the most suitable candidate.

"Boss, I overheard you mention a need for extreme goodness alongside extreme evil. Do you require my assistance in that regard?" Chaos inquired.

Xu Zimei gently shook his head, a smile gracing his lips. "No, that is unnecessary. I have already identified the embodiment of extreme goodness."

"Boss, do you have any promising leads?" Chaos asked, his curiosity piqued.

If the nature of evil proves elusive to define,

goodness presents a similar challenge.

It is not to be confused with mere saintliness.

True goodness lies in actions that benefit the world without causing harm to oneself or others, including those nearby.

Here, the emphasis on benefiting the world is paramount.

And not merely benefiting a single individual.

Unless, of course, that individual possesses the capacity to enact world-altering change.

Sensing Chaos's curiosity, Xu Zimei chuckled softly. "Extreme goodness, while difficult to pinpoint, is fundamentally straightforward."

"It is, in essence, acting upon conscience without any expectation of personal gain."

"It seeks no reward, is devoid of self-interest, and may even involve the quiet concealment of one's deeds and reputation."

"Henceforth, I shall journey across the lands to appreciate the magnificent vistas and diverse cultures of the Divine Continent."

"Then, I shall gather the seeds of goodness, from which the Way of Goodness will be cultivated."

"This, combined with your collection of ultimate evil, will serve as the cornerstone for the suppression of the Endless Hell."

"Let us reconvene here in one month's time," Chaos proposed.

"That day will also mark the inauguration of the Endless Hell."

Xu Zimei gave a confirming nod.

After their parting, his consciousness first delved into the Nine Domains World for a brief observation.

He noted that the True Martial Great Emperor was still engaged in the summoning of the Yuan Central Continent.

The Yuan Central Continent was in the process of integrating into the Nine Domains World.

The entire world seemed to hum with a celestial resonance, as if the very Dao of Heaven and Earth had begun to undulate.

Threads of the Great Dao's might flowed with palpable force into Xu Zimei’s waiting palm.

Subsequently, these energies condensed, shaping into a perfect sphere.

This sphere held an amber core, pulsating with an ancient aura imbued with the profound power of the Great Dao.

With a deliberate motion, Xu Zimei extended the sphere towards Chaos.

"This," he began, his voice resonating with authority, "is a seal I have personally refined, utilizing the Power of the Great Dao. Its specific purpose is to contain and seal away wicked thoughts."

"I require you to travel the breadth of the world, identifying and collecting from the most depraved havens of these malevolent-minded individuals, ultimately to forge an object of extreme evil."

Upon receiving Xu Zimei's directive, Chaos accepted the sphere with reverence.

Giving a slight nod of acknowledgement, he replied, "Boss, have no fear, I shall complete this task with utmost speed."

In truth, the assignment of this particular duty to Chaos was exceptionally fitting.

To elaborate, the act of gathering wicked thoughts extends far beyond a simple collection.

One must also possess an unwavering resolve and immense power.

Should one's power prove insufficient, they risk succumbing to the very darkness they seek to contain, becoming another spectral victim of those wicked souls.

For the task of vanquishing such wicked entities and appropriating their poisonous thoughts, Chaos stood as the unparalleled choice.

"Boss, earlier you mentioned the pursuit of both extreme evil and extreme goodness. Might you need my assistance in locating the latter?" Chaos inquired.

Xu Zimei countered with a gentle shake of his head, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "No, your help is not required for that. I have already identified the entity embodying extreme goodness."

"Boss, have you perhaps uncovered any promising leads?" Chaos pressed, his curiosity visibly mounting.

If the very essence of evil remains a concept difficult to definitively grasp,

then goodness, in its truest form, is equally enigmatic.

It is not sufficient to merely label someone a 'saint' or a 'good person'.

What is termed 'goodness' involves performing actions that bring benefit to the world without incurring any cost or detriment to oneself, or to those connected to oneself.

In this specific context, the crucial element is the act of 'benefiting the world'.

It is not about benefiting a singular person.

Unless, naturally, that specific person possesses the exceptional capability to bring about significant change upon the world.

Responding to Chaos's earnest inquiry, Xu Zimei let out a soft chuckle. "Extreme goodness, while seemingly complex, is in reality quite simple to define."

"It is, at its core, the exercise of conscience unfettered by any desire for personal gain."

"It involves acting without seeking any form of return, remaining detached from all personal interests, and even quietly setting aside any recognition or renown for one's accomplishments."

"Following this, I shall embark on a grand tour of the world, immersing myself in the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of the Divine Continent."

"My objective will be to gather the purest manifestations of goodness, thereby assembling the foundational principles of the Way of Goodness."

"This, coupled with the extreme evil you will procure, will form the essential core for the subjugation of the Endless Hell."

"Let us arrange to meet again one month from this day, convening right here," Chaos suggested.

"That very moment will also signify the official establishment of the Endless Hell."

Xu Zimei offered a decisive nod in agreement.

Upon their departure, his consciousness initially projected into the Nine Domains World for a swift appraisal.

He observed that the True Martial Great Emperor was still diligently engaged in the process of summoning the Yuan Central Continent.

The entirety of the Yuan Central Continent was actively undergoing assimilation into the greater structure of the Nine Domains World.

An extraordinary phenomenon unfolded as the Great Dao of Heaven and Earth began to exhibit subtle ripples, as if the very cosmic order was shifting.

Invaluable strands of the Great Dao's potent energy cascaded into Xu Zimei's upturned palm.

These energies then coalesced seamlessly, forming a perfect, spherical mass.

Within this sphere, a core of pure amber radiated, exuding an ancient and immensely powerful aura representative of the Great Dao.

Xu Zimei then presented this meticulously crafted sphere to Chaos.

"This artifact," he announced, his voice carrying the weight of his pronouncement, "is a seal I have personally refined, employing the very essence of the Great Dao's Power. Its specific function is to bind and contain all forms of wicked thoughts."

"Your crucial task involves traversing the global landscape, identifying the most malevolent locales inhabited by individuals consumed by unholy thoughts, and ultimately consolidating this negativity into a supremely wicked object."

Upon receiving Xu Zimei's charge, Chaos took possession of the sphere with resolute determination.

With a slight, affirmative nod, he responded, "Boss, rest assured. I pledge to complete this assignment as swiftly as possible."

Indeed, the selection of Chaos for this particular mission was demonstrably astute.

The undertaking of collecting wicked thoughts is far from a simple acquisition.

It demands not only immense personal fortitude but also absolute mastery over one's own power.

A deficiency in power could easily lead to one becoming another unfortunate casualty, another lost spirit claimed by the very wicked individuals they sought to subdue.

In the capacity of defeating these malevolent beings and collecting their corrupted thoughts, Chaos stood as the most excellent choice.

"Boss, I distinctly recall you mentioning the need for both extreme evil and extreme goodness. Pray tell, do you require my assistance in the latter pursuit?" Chaos inquired.

Xu Zimei deftly shook his head, a gentle smile illuminating his features. "No, your involvement is not necessary for that. I have already secured the entity that embodies extreme goodness."

"Boss, have you perhaps encountered any promising leads regarding this extreme goodness?" Chaos asked, his curiosity undeniably piqued.

If the definition of profound evil is a concept that readily eludes comprehension,

then the nature of true goodness is equally elusive.

It is not the case that embodying the persona of a 'saint' equates to true goodness.

What is categorized as genuine goodness involves undertaking actions that significantly benefit the world, without causing any negative repercussions to oneself, or to those residing within one's immediate sphere of influence.

Crucially, in this context, the act of benefiting the world must be the overarching goal.

It is not about providing benefit to a single, isolated individual.

Unless, of course, that individual possesses the extraordinary capacity to reshape the world through their actions.

Addressing Chaos's inquisitive nature, Xu Zimei emitted a soft, amused chuckle. "The concept of extreme goodness, while difficult to precisely define, is fundamentally quite simple."

"It is, in essence, the manifestation of one's conscience acting without any expectation or desire for personal advantage."

"It entails acting without seeking any form of reciprocation, remaining unconcerned with personal gain, and even deliberately obscuring the credit and recognition for one's noble deeds."

"Following this, my intention is to embark on an extensive journey across the continent, marveling at the stunning natural beauty and engaging with the unique customs and traditions of the Divine Continent."

"Subsequently, I shall gather the collective essence of goodness, consolidating it into the foundational principles of the Way of Goodness."

"This principle, when united with the extreme evil you shall retrieve, will serve as the central anchor for the establishment and control of the Endless Hell."

"Let us arrange to meet once more precisely one month from this moment, convening at this very location," Chaos proposed.

"That designated time shall also coincide with the official founding of the Endless Hell."

Xu Zimei responded with a firm nod, signifying his assent.

After bidding farewell to Chaos, his consciousness first made a brief incursion into the Nine Domains World for a comprehensive overview.

He ascertained that the True Martial Great Emperor was still actively engaged in the complex procedure of summoning forth the Yuan Central Continent.

The Yuan Central Continent was currently in a state of active integration, merging into the larger expanse of the Nine Domains World.

The heavens themselves seemed to resonate, the Great Dao of Heaven and Earth exhibiting a visible tremor, as if a profound cosmic shift was commencing.

Streams of the Great Dao's immense power flowed like liquid light into Xu Zimei's open palm.

Following this, the energies consolidated, forming a perfect, spherical entity.

This sphere glowed with an internal amber light, radiating an ancient and potent aura, a testament to the Great Dao's might.

Xu Zimei then offered the sphere to Chaos.

"This," he stated, his voice imbued with gravitas, "is a seal I have personally crafted, utilizing the very Power of the Great Dao, specifically fashioned to bind malevolent thoughts."

"I task you with journeying throughout the world, seeking out the most wicked places and the people harboring these evil inclinations, ultimately to coalesce them into an object of ultimate malevolence."

Upon hearing Xu Zimei's command, Chaos accepted the sphere without hesitation.

With a slight nod, he affirmed, "Boss, rest assured. I will complete this mission with the utmost celerity."

In truth, assigning this monumental task to Chaos was an impeccably sound decision.

The endeavor of collecting wicked thoughts transcends mere simple acquisition.

It necessitates the possession of formidable personal strength.

Should one's power be inadequate, they risk becoming inextricably entangled with the wicked individuals, ultimately perishing as another lost soul.

In the critical task of subduing these wicked entities and harvesting their evil thoughts, Chaos was demonstrably the optimal choice.

"Boss, I overheard your instruction regarding the pursuit of extreme goodness alongside extreme evil. Do you require my assistance in this endeavor?" Chaos inquired.

Xu Zimei countered with a gentle shake of his head, a subtle smile gracing his lips. "No, that will not be necessary. I have already identified the object that embodies extreme goodness."

"Boss, have you perhaps uncovered any promising leads regarding this extreme goodness?" Chaos asked again, his curiosity evident.

If the perplexing nature of profound evil is difficult to precisely define,

then goodness, in its purest form, is equally challenging to categorize.

It is not to say that a person embodying saintly virtues automatically represents goodness.

What constitutes goodness is performing actions that benefit the world without causing any harm to oneself, or to those in one's vicinity.

Critically, in this context, the act of benefiting the world takes precedence.

It is not focused solely on benefiting one specific person.

Unless, naturally, that individual possesses the inherent ability to catalyze world-altering change.

Reacting to Chaos's inquisitive tone, Xu Zimei chuckled. "Extreme goodness, while difficult to grasp, is fundamentally straightforward."

"It originates from a conscience unburdened by any personal benefit sought."

"It acts without expecting any return, remains detached from self-interest, and may even involve quietly concealing achievements and reputation."

"From here, I shall embark on a grand tour, experiencing firsthand the sublime landscapes and diverse cultural traditions of the Divine Continent."

"My aim is to gather the essence of goodness, thereby constructing the Way of Goodness."

"This Way, combined with the extreme evil you retrieve, will serve as the core mechanism for suppressing the Endless Hell."

"Let us reconvene at this very spot in one month's time," Chaos proposed.

"That day shall also mark the establishment of the Endless Hell."

Xu Zimei gave a solemn nod of agreement.

After their amicable separation, his consciousness first turned towards the Nine Domains World for a brief examination.

He noticed that the True Martial Great Emperor was still engrossed in the process of summoning the Yuan Central Continent.

The Yuan Central Continent was currently in the midst of merging with the Nine Domains World.

The cold wind fiercely blew, ruffling the robe of the silhouette standing on the precipice. The silhouette was a young man, his face obscured by the shadows cast by his wide-brimmed hat. He stood there, a solitary figure against the vast, desolate landscape, the wind whipping around him like a restless spirit.

He had been waiting for a long time. The journey had been arduous, fraught with dangers that tested the limits of his cultivation. But he had persevered, driven by a promise and a burning desire for justice. Now, he was finally at the threshold of his goal, the culmination of years of effort and sacrifice.

A storm was brewing.

He could feel it.

The air grew heavy.

His heart pounded.

The heavens darkened.

A low rumble.

Thunder echoed.

Lightning flashed.

The wind howled.

And then.

He saw it.

A faint light emanating from the depths of the valley below, a beacon in the encroaching darkness. It was the place he had been searching for, the secluded abode of the person he had come to confront.

He took a deep breath, his chest expanding as he inhaled the frigid air. "Hmph, no matter how grand your protective formation is, it can't stop me from getting what I want," he muttered to himself, a grim smile playing on his lips. "The 'Crimson Bloom Sect' indeed. Such a fitting name for a place that hides such darkness."

He leaped.

Without hesitation.

His descent was swift.

A blur of motion.

He plunged into the valley, the wind roaring in his ears, carrying with it the whispers of the past and the promise of retribution.

The valley walls were steep and treacherous, etched with ancient carvings that seemed to writhe in the dim light. As he neared the source of the light, the ground beneath him began to tremble, a sign that the formation was awakening, sensing his intrusion.

He landed softly at the entrance of a cave, the light now blindingly bright. The air thrummed with spiritual energy, a testament to the powerful Qi that permeated the place. This was it, the heart of the sect's power. The culmination of his quest.

He pushed aside the heavy stone door.

And stepped inside.

The chamber was vast.

Adorned with intricate patterns.

A single pedestal stood in the center.

Upon it rested.

A glowing orb.

"Finally," he whispered, his voice hoarse with emotion. "After all this time, I've found it."

He reached out, his fingers brushing against the orb's warm surface. A surge of power coursed through him, invigorating his drained Qi and revitalizing his Dantian. The orb pulsed in response, its light intensifying as if acknowledging its new master.

"This is the treasure of the 'Crimson Bloom Sect', the 'Sunstone'," a voice boomed from the shadows. "You have done well to retrieve it for me."

He turned, his eyes narrowing as he spotted a figure emerging from the darkness. An old man, his face a mask of wrinkles, his eyes glinting with a sinister light. An Elder, no doubt.

"Elder," he greeted, his tone respectful yet guarded. "The 'Sunstone' is finally in my possession."

The Elder chuckled, a dry, rasping sound. "Indeed. And now, it belongs to me. You have served your purpose, young cultivator."

A sense of unease washed over him. "What do you mean?"

"I mean," the Elder said, stepping closer, his eyes fixed on the orb, "that your journey ends here. You have no use for such power."

He clenched his fist, his knuckles turning white. "You lied to me!"

"Lies?" The Elder scoffed. "I merely told you what you needed to hear. The 'Sunstone' is the key to unlocking untold power, and it is mine by right. You were just a tool to obtain it."

"A tool?" he repeated, his voice trembling with rage. "I risked my life, cultivated for years, all for your twisted ambition?"

"Ambition?" The Elder's eyes gleamed. "This is destiny! The 'Crimson Bloom Sect' will rise again, and with the 'Sunstone', its power will be absolute!"

He took a step back, his mind racing. He had been betrayed. Used. The weight of his journey, the sacrifices he had made, suddenly felt hollow.

"You won't get away with this," he vowed, his voice hardening with resolve. "I will not let you."

The Elder merely smiled, a cruel, predatory grin. "You think you can stop me? You are but a fledgling cultivator. I am an Elder of the Crimson Bloom Sect, powerful beyond your wildest dreams."

He raised his hand, summoning the Qi within him. "We'll see about that."

The battle was joined.