Captured Hearts: The Substitute Bride's Gambit - Chapter 176 - Deliberately Prodding Her Sorest Spot

Lanz Kuroda failed his Awakening Test in the most spectacular way possible, he didn’t just rank low, his ass got slapped with an FFF. He was locked out of the system entirely, and sent home like the rejected tutorial character that he is.But when a cracked relic crystal he bought from a sketchy street vendor activates, it boots up something the world shouldn’t even know exists, a hidden system that logs him into an old, forgotten alt account, one with no level cap, restrictions, and absolutely zero oversight.By day, Lanz is still the same guy that no one aspires to be.But at night? In the dungeons?He becomes Zero, an anonymous hunter operating outside the system, clearing high-tier raids solo, and slowly building a legend no one can trace.The world thinks he’s a joke.He’s about to become its biggest problem.

Zhao Du'an, a government official leading a cautious life, finds himself transported to another world where he becomes the favored 'pretty face' of a female emperor and an oppressive, power-abusing villain. Before he can relish the moment, he faces mortal danger for releasing a national criminal. Cornered and desperate, he plans to soothe the female emperor to seek mercy, only to discover his 'leading gigolo' role is a sham.Worse still, his notorious reputation prompts officials and heroes alike to impeach and eliminate him; and martial artists and clerical magicians consider him a disgrace. Overwhelmed, Zhao Du'an decides it's better to stop being human to survive.Starting by betraying his allies, he becomes the Emperor's top lackey. Years later, amidst heavy snowfall in the capital, the female emperor Xu Zhen Guan sighs atop the city tower, 'It was supposed to be a pretend companionship, how did it turn real...'Also known as 'Deceiving and Flattering at the Court of Great Yu', 'The Record of a Villain Going White'.

What to ExpectWelcome to this Martial Peak fanfiction, a respectful expansion of the legendary work by the original author. This fic follows the core events of the original, with a fresh twist in the form of a new protagonist who is an “outsider”—a modern reader reincarnated into the world of Martial Peak.1. MC Setup: A Cultivation Novel Reader in Martial PeakThe protagonist is NOT someone from the Martial Peak universe but a cultivation novel enthusiast from another world.No prior knowledge of Martial Peak, but vast experience with cultivation logic, tropes, and meta-awareness from similar novels.This allows for unique decision-making, unconventional strategies, and a slightly different approach to situations while still following the original storyline.He won’t be overpowered from the start, but expect fast progression due to his deep understanding of cultivation mechanics.2. Respect for the Original PlotNo major timeline changes—key events still happen as they should.All future arcs and climaxes remain intact to preserve the integrity of Martial Peak.What changes? The MC’s interactions, techniques, and relationships, providing a fresh perspective while saluting the original work.Expect some butterfly effects, but nothing that derails the core story!3. Large Harem (With More Depth & Development)Martial Peak already has one of the largest harems in cultivation fiction—we’re expanding on that.4. Smut Content IncludedLet’s not dance around it—explicit content will be featured in this fic.Balanced between romance, cultivation growth, and action, ensuring the story remains engaging beyond just smut.Cultivation-based dual cultivation, yin-yang balance, and ‘special’ training sessions will be explored in a tasteful yet satisfying manner.5. Fast-Paced UpdatesSince we’re not making drastic changes to the story, the pace will be fast and consistent.Updates will focus on the MC’s journey, harem development, and the occasional divergence to deepen character arcs.As long as there’s support and interest, the fic will keep expanding.Final NotesThis is a passionate tribute to Martial Peak, keeping the spirit of the original intact while giving readers a fresh perspective, expanded harem dynamics, and more in-depth character interactions.Are you ready to ascend to the peak once more?Let’s begin.

Han Cai had a very good life, as he was born into a wealthy merchant family. He had access to anything he wanted, and he was always safe, protected by guards at all times. His family was one of the wealthiest in the town, and no one dared to offend them.

All of this was going to change. Han Cai's father was taking him to the Sky Soaring sect, where he would begin his life as a cultivator.

His past life was filled with regret and loneliness, and he was grateful for the opportunity to start anew in the world.

But honestly, he knew he was a Scoundrel in his past life and will be one in this life too.

He looked at his system panel

[Name: Han Cai]

[Age: 10]

[Life Span: 40 Years]

»Strength: 1

»Perception: 1

»Agility: 1

»Speed: 1

»Constitution: 1

»Intelligence: 2

»Charm: 1

[Exchange Points: 820 (1/day)]

[System Update : ? (Collect 1000 Exchange points to unlock)]

[Initiate Law of Equal Exchange?]

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Keywords: Transmigration , Action, Adventure, System, Male Protagonist , Accelerated Growth ,Anti-social Protagonist ,Calm Protagonist ,Cautious Protagonist , Charming Protagonist, Cheat , Clones , Handsome Male Lead , Selfish Protagonist , Strength-based Social Hierarchy , Hard-Working Protagonist