Reborn as the Novel’s Villain: Cultivation Lost, Female Leads Take Control

Outside Heavenly Origin City’s Lord’s Mansion.

Under the shade of the trees, a group of young men and women, dressed in luxurious attire, lounged comfortably, their attendants fanning them, pouring wine, and feeding them fresh fruits. These were the heirs of influential families within the city, gathered outside the mansion, hoping to make a good impression.

They weren’t relying on innate talent but rather on their family connections, as their ancestors or current elders held positions within the Qingming Sect. They figured that even if they couldn’t become official disciples, becoming outer or even honorary disciples would still boost their standing within their families.

After all, this was Purple Cloud Peak they were vying to join. The Peak Lord was said to be the youngest True Lord in the sect’s history, and some rumors hinted that he was even being groomed as the next sect leader.

Meanwhile, away from the shaded comfort of the group, stood a lone young man, ordinary in appearance, under the glaring sun. Sweat trickled down his face, but his determined expression remained unshaken, exuding a quiet resilience.

“Disciple, perhaps we should seek some shade,” murmured the voice of Elder Li, the old spirit residing within the jade pendant.

“No, Master. I’ve already submitted my token, and it’s likely that Lady Xue Jinli is observing me now. If I retreat, all my efforts will be wasted,” Xiao Ye responded resolutely.

“Have you ever wondered why your token was the only one accepted?” Elder Li couldn’t help but hint.

“That’s obvious, isn’t it? The city lord must have recognized my extraordinary talent and wanted to form a connection with me. That’s why he accepted my token!” Xiao Ye answered with full confidence.

Elder Li was at a loss. The reality was, the city lord couldn’t gauge Xue Jinli’s intentions and decided to use Xiao Ye’s token to test the waters. If she accepted it, great! If not, well, the consequences would fall on Xiao Ye, a lone nobody without power or influence.

“Master, when I meet Lady Xue, should I act respectfully reserved, or perhaps more tender and gentle?” Xiao Ye mused, “If she takes a liking to me at first glance, what should I do then?”

“…”

Elder Li held his silence. What could he say? Should he offer his congratulations? This disciple of his, despite his modest appearance, seemed to believe he was irresistible.

With no words left, Elder Li finally replied, “Disciple, if you do meet her, simply be yourself. Your charm alone should be more than enough.”

“Master, you truly understand me!” Xiao Ye was moved.

Just then, the mansion gate creaked open, and a middle-aged steward stepped out, scanning the area with a detached expression.

“Which one of you is Xiao Ye?”

Xiao Ye could barely contain his excitement. Whispering to the jade pendant, he said, “Master, just as you predicted, Lady Xue Jinli really does want to meet me!”

“Disciple, stay calm; everyone is watching,” Elder Li reminded him.

“You’re right, Master. I must remain composed. I’ll give Lady Xue a flawless first impression!” Xiao Ye took a deep breath, briefly glanced with disdain at the group relaxing under the trees, straightened his robe, and approached the steward confidently.

“It is I, Xiao Ye. Please, lead the way!” he said with a proud tone.

“Lead the way?” The steward scoffed, flinging the crumpled invitation token at Xiao Ye’s chest. “If you’re called, answer quickly instead of dragging your feet. Anyone would think you were deaf!”

Xiao Ye was stunned, staring blankly at the token now lying at his feet.

Without another word, the steward turned and walked over to the young nobles, greeting them with a deferential smile.

“My lord instructed me to inform you all that the esteemed Lady Xue does not entertain backdoor requests.”

“Oh, so that’s the case. We appreciate the city lord’s efforts on our behalf,” one of the youths replied, visibly relieved.

“Think nothing of it. The lord also reminded me to tell you that the sun is scorching today, and you all are valued individuals. It’s best not to risk your health by staying outside.”

“Thank you for the lord’s kind consideration,” they said, bowing as they prepared to leave.

With that, the steward disappeared behind the closing gates of the mansion.

The laughter of the young nobles echoed in the air, mocking Xiao Ye.

“Thank heavens we had that fool test the waters for us! Otherwise, we’d be the ones on Lady Xue’s bad side!”

“Did you see the way he looked at us earlier? Like we were beneath him. I bet he thought he was the chosen one!”

“Hah, with that face? What a joke!”

“Just a clueless bumpkin.”

With a final wave of laughter, the young nobles departed, leaving Xiao Ye standing alone, still in shock.

He could scarcely believe what had just happened. His face flushed with embarrassment as he realized how everyone must have seen him. Hearing the laughter of those noble heirs only intensified his urge to find a hole to hide in.

How could this be happening?

From the moment he began his journey of revenge, he’d never experienced such humiliation. He’d always managed to get what he wanted—opportunities, women, anything he desired. And yet, since becoming entangled with the Qingming Sect, he’d been struck down repeatedly. First, he’d been slashed nearly to death, and now, publicly humiliated.

“Master, I demand an explanation!” Xiao Ye seethed through gritted teeth.

“Disciple, how can you blame me for this?” Elder Li replied, exasperated.

“Didn’t you say the Qingming Sect was my destiny and that Xue Jinli was my fated one? Then why am I facing such humiliation?” Xiao Ye’s voice quivered with frustration.

“The destiny I foresaw was accurate,” Elder Li replied. “But I did warn you that your fate lay with the Ascension Gathering three days from now. It was you who insisted on delivering your invitation now, and now you’ve suffered for it. How can you lay the blame on me?”

Xiao Ye’s face froze in silence.