Villain: Manipulating the Heroines into hating the Protagonist

Chapter 585 Astral Jade City

"My beauties," he announced, his voice dripping with charm, "today, we embark on a journey! Prepare yourselves for a glimpse of your Heavenly Jade Pavilion's true magnificence!"

Curiosity and excitement filled the air as Su Xian, the picture of grace and elegance, stepped forward. "Husband," she inquired, her voice a soothing melody, "where are we going?"

Wang Jian threw back his head and laughed, a rich sound that echoed through the opulent chamber. "Fear not, my love," he said, "consider it a little surprise. A small token of my appreciation for your dedication and newfound power."

One by one, he ushered his women into the swirling portal. The air crackled with energy as they passed through, and in a flash of blinding light, they found themselves transported to a new world.

They stood breathless on a celestial platform overlooking a breathtaking vista. Lush green fields stretched out as far as the eye could see, dotted with shimmering crystal rivers and waterfalls cascading down towering mountains. The air vibrated with life, and the sky was ablaze with three suns, their golden light casting a warm glow on the idyllic landscape.

"Welcome to the Azure Star," Wang Jian announced, his voice filled with pride. "One of the many jewels in the Heavenly Jade Pavilion's Starry Cluster."

The women gasped, awestruck by the celestial beauty surrounding them. Butterfly Spirit Queen Stella, her wings shimmering with an ethereal light, flitted from flower to flower, her laughter echoing through the air. Chen Yiyan, her dark black hair cascading down her back, ran through the fields, her laughter like a tinkling bell.

Wang Jian spent the day indulging his harem, showering them with attention and lavish gifts. They feasted on celestial fruits that burst with divine energy, bathed in crystal-clear pools that rejuvenated their bodies, and explored hidden grottoes filled with sparkling treasures.

As the day wore on, Wang Jian transported them from one star to another. They visited the fiery surface of the Vermilion Star, where they witnessed breathtaking displays of volcanic eruptions, and then journeyed to the tranquil Moonstone Star, where they bathed in the ethereal glow of a giant, luminous moon.

On each star, Wang Jian pointed out landmarks and shared stories of his conquests, his voice tinged with dramatic flair. He spoke of ancient battles fought on celestial plains, of mythical beasts tamed and brought under his control, and of hidden secrets discovered within the vast expanse of the Starry Cluster.

The women listened with rapt attention, their eyes sparkling with admiration. They bathed in the reflected glory of their powerful husband, their hearts swelling with pride. It wasn't just his power that captivated them; it was his charisma, his ability to weave a narrative that made them feel like his partners in this grand celestial adventure.

As the final sun of the Azure Star dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the landscape, Wang Jian gathered them all close. "This, my loves," he declared, his voice husky with emotion, "is just a taste of what lies within our grasp."

His words resonated through the group. Su Xian, her gaze locked on his, nodded in agreement. The rest of the women echoed her sentiment, a chorus of affirmation filling the air.

As Wang Jian gazed upon them, his gaze lingering on each face, a warmth bloomed in Wang Jian's heart.

The celestial tour continued, and Wang Jian, his enthusiasm boundless, kept his harem entranced. They visited the Nebula Star, a swirling vortex of vibrant cosmic dust and gas, its beauty as ethereal as it was awe-inspiring. They ventured to the edge of the Starry Cluster, where they caught a glimpse of the vast galaxy, its billions of stars twinkling like distant diamonds.

On the Jade Star, they marveled at towering, jade-colored mountains that pierced the sky and vibrated with a subtle energy. Here, Wang Jian gifted each woman a rare Jade Blossom, its petals shimmering with an otherworldly glow, rumored to enhance their cultivation.

Finally, they arrived at the heart of the Heavenly Jade Pavilion's Starry Cluster, where the central hall stood, a magnificent structure carved from obsidian and adorned with shimmering crystals. Here, Wang Jian held court with Cui Lan, the Pavilion Mistress, her beauty accentuated by a regal air.

"My dear Cui Lan," Wang Jian announced, a hint of mischief in his eyes, "I believe it's time for the Heavenly Jade Pavilion to expand its influence."

Cui Lan, ever astute, raised an eyebrow. "Expand? Master, our Starry Cluster is one of the most prosperous in the Eastern Cosmos. What further expansion could we seek?"

Wang Jian leaned forward, a sly smile playing on his lips. "We can create a settlement, Cui Lan. A bustling city just outside the borders of the Starry Cluster."

Cui Lan frowned in curiosity. "A settlement? What purpose would that serve?"

"Many purposes, my dear," Wang Jian chuckled. "Imagine, a city teeming with talented cultivators eager to join our cause! We can expand our territory, establish trade routes, and utilize these outsiders to gather resources we may lack. Think of the possibilities!"

Cui Lan's frown softened as she saw the merit in his plan. "But Master," she countered, "we are a sect of only women. How can we manage an entire city full of men and women?"

Wang Jian's smile widened. "That's the beauty of it, Cui Lan. The city will be outside our borders. These newcomers will be valuable assets, but they will never have access to the Heavenly Jade Pavilion itself. No man, and no woman, will enter our Starry Cluster without our express permission."

Su Xian, ever perceptive, spoke up. "And what of its name, husband?"

Wang Jian gestured towards the central hall, its obsidian walls gleaming in the starlight. "Astral Jade City," he declared, his voice ringing with pride. "A city named after our glorious Heavenly Jade Pavilion, a beacon for cultivators, and a testament to our power!"

Cui Lan's eyes sparkled. "Astral Jade City," she repeated, savoring the name. "A brilliant idea, Master! And how do you propose we manage this endeavor?"

Wang Jian, with a playful wink, announced, "Why, my dear Cui Lan, I believe this city needs an able leader. Someone with vision, charisma, and perhaps…" he trailed off, his gaze lingering on the women surrounding him.

A chorus of playful gasps and laughter erupted amongst the harem. Finally, Su Xian, understanding her husband's game, stepped forward. "Don't be coy, husband. You wish to manage this city yourself, don't you?"

Wang Jian chuckled, throwing his head back in laughter. "Indeed, my love! After all, who better to ensure its success than yours truly?"

Cui Lan smiled warmly. "A wise decision, Master. The Heavenly Jade Pavilion will offer its full support to Astral Jade City. We will provide resources, manpower, and ensure its smooth integration into the Starry Cluster's economy."

And so, with a plan hatched and a name chosen, the foundation for Astral Jade City was laid. Wang Jian, with his harem by his side and the weight of the Heavenly Jade Pavilion behind him, embarked on a new chapter. This city, a bustling hub of trade and a crucible for talent, promised to further elevate the Heavenly Jade Pavilion's influence in the surrounding cosmos.

However, a mischievous glint still flickered in Wang Jian's eyes. Astral Jade City was just a piece of the puzzle, a pawn strategically placed on the board. His grand scheme, a game that spanned across the cosmos, was only just beginning.

The hum of activity echoed throughout the Heavenly Jade Pavilion as the plan for Astral Jade City took shape.Wang Jian, ever the strategist, meticulously laid out the blueprints. The city wouldn't be a simple settlement; it would be a sprawling metropolis, a nexus of trade and a beacon for cultivators.

The first step involved acquiring skilled labor. Through Cui Lan's network of contacts, word spread across the Eastern Cosmos. Artisans famed for their intricate jade carvings, laborers known for their Herculean strength, and experts with a keen understanding of spatial formations – all were summoned to the Heavenly Jade Pavilion.

"This Astral Jade City," Cui Lan declared to the assembled crowd, "will be a testament to the Heavenly Jade Pavilion's power and generosity. We seek the finest minds, the most skilled hands, to join us in this grand undertaking."

The news was like a spark igniting dry tinder. Cultivators from all corners of the cosmos flocked to the Heavenly Jade Pavilion, eager to secure a place in this grand project. The promise of working alongside a formidable sect, coupled with the potential for advancement within the city itself, proved irresistible.

With the workforce assembled, the marketing blitz began. Talismans carrying vibrant holographic projections were distributed throughout the cosmos, depicting a bustling Astral Jade City – towering structures of shimmering jade, bustling marketplaces overflowing with exotic wares, and cultivators of all walks of life interacting in harmony.

"Attention, all cultivators!" boomed the voice of a renowned announcer, projected through a powerful sound array. "The Heavenly Jade Pavilion, the most esteemed sect in the Eastern Cosmos, is proud to announce the construction of Astral Jade City! This magnificent metropolis offers cultivators of all backgrounds unparalleled opportunities!"

The message resonated with various factions. The ancient families, like the Lin, Jiang, Shui, and Nangong families, intrigued by the potential for bolstering their influence, sent emissaries to the Heavenly Jade Pavilion. Cultivation settlements like the Crimson Star Settlement and the Polar Star Settlement saw a chance to establish trade partnerships. Even the more fringe groups, such as the Alchemical Guild, the Music Harmony Association, the Array Formation Society, and the infamous Black Dragon Gang, expressed interest.

Security, Resources, Trade – these were the three pillars upon which Astral Jade City stood. The Heavenly Jade Pavilion, with its unparalleled strength, promised to ensure the safety of its residents. Resources, both natural and cultivated, would be readily available within the city limits and its surrounding stars. And trade, facilitated by the four strategically chosen stars, promised to be a driving force of Astral Jade City's prosperity.

The general populace of the Eastern Cosmos buzzed with excitement. Here was a chance to escape the confines of their mundane lives and enter a vibrant city brimming with opportunity. Divine cultivators, especially those yearning for a safe haven to hone their skills, were particularly enthralled.The Heavenly Jade Pavilion's backing provided a level of security that was unmatched in the cosmos.

Wang Jian monitored the reactions with a satisfied smirk. The bait was cast, and the fish were swarming. Astral Jade City was more than just a settlement; it was a magnet, drawing in the very forces he needed to manipulate the Eastern Cosmos's political landscape.

Cui Lan, her eyes gleaming with anticipation, addressed him. "Master, the response has been overwhelming! We've received applications from thousands of cultivators and representatives from countless factions."

Wang Jian chuckled. "Excellent, Cui Lan. Excellent. This Astral Jade City will become a crucible, forging alliances and shaping the future of the Eastern Cosmos. But remember, dear Cui Lan, we must be selective. We want those who will benefit the city, not those who seek to exploit it."

Cui Lan nodded sagely. "Indeed, Master. Worry not, we will sift through the applicants with the utmost care. Only the most promising will be invited to join the Astral Jade Project."

With the workforce secured, the marketing blitz reaching its peak, and the city's foundations about to be laid, Astral Jade City stood poised to become a reality. Wang Jian, his harem by his side and the Heavenly Jade Pavilion's power at his disposal, had taken a significant step towards achieving his grand, enigmatic scheme.