Chapter 1874 : The Spoils of a Cultivator's Triumph

"Six Dao Source [the condensed essence of a cultivator's path and cultivation base], six Great Luo Rare Treasure [extremely rare and precious materials from the Great Luo realm], let us exchange them according to our contributions."

Eldrin Chen spoke as he directly took the Dao Source from the Spatial Source Stone [a rare ore containing spatial energy] and the Golden-Winged Roc, and also claimed the Qiankun Mother Stone [the primordial stone of Heaven and Earth] and the Earth Element Origin [the purest essence of the earth element].

Out of the total twelve Great Luo Rare Treasure and Dao Source, Eldrin Chen alone took four of the rare treasures, yet no one voiced any objection.

Although the value of these four treasures was truly staggering, Eldrin Chen's battle merits were more than sufficient to warrant the exchange.

After all, in this battle, Eldrin Chen had single-handedly suppressed and slain Vorgath the Nether Prison, and had soundly defeated Firmament Heaven Imperial Scion, forcing his ignominious retreat. His contributions were unparalleled among them all.

Watching Eldrin Chen claim his four treasures, the others began their own exchanges.

Umbralia took the Dao Source of Vorgath the Nether Prison. That Vorgath the Nether Prison was a prodigy of the Demon Race who had cultivated an Indestructible Body [a physique of legendary resilience], and his foundational attributes were relatively close to Umbralia's own. Refining this Dao Source would undoubtedly lead to a significant increase in her power.

The Dao Source from the Ethereal Sky Roc and the Golden Feather King Roc fell into the hands of the Reincarnation Avatar. With these two Dao Source, the cultivation base of the Reincarnation Body [a powerful clone or avatar formed through reincarnation arts] was certain to advance by leaps and bounds, and raising its combat prowess by another tier would not be an issue.

The remaining five individuals possessed the combat strength of ordinary Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal [an Ancient Immortal who has survived eight Heavenly Tribulations], and their battle merits were correspondingly lower.

After conferring amongst themselves, Nyssa Qu took the Dao Source of the Purple Radiance Roc Clan Imperial Scion, while Lyra Jiang claimed the Dao Source from the Crimson Departure Roc Clan Imperial Scion.

Rift-Heaven Demon Emperor took the Crimson Departure Fire Jade and the Ancient Ice Phoenix received the Thunder Feather, while the Chaos Black Dragon claimed that portion of Dark Immortal Gold.

This distribution was suggested by Eldrin Chen, as both Nyssa Qu and Lyra Jiang possessed profound foundations and deep reserves, yet their personal cultivation levels lagged somewhat. If each could refine a Dao Source [a primordial source of the Dao, the fundamental principle of existence], their realms would undoubtedly experience significant advancement.

For Rift-Heaven Demon Emperor and the Ancient Ice Phoenix, realm advancement was not the primary concern. After obtaining two Great Luo Rare Treasure [extremely rare treasures from the Great Luo Heaven, the highest realm], if they could master a Great Luo Divine Ability [a divine ability originating from the Great Luo Heaven], their combat prowess would be elevated to a higher tier.

The Chaos Black Dragon possessed a Chaotic Holy Spirit [a being born from primordial chaos, possessing immense innate power] physique. After having its innate potential elevated by Eldrin Chen's Primordial Essence, its foundational reserves even surpassed those of the Ancient Ice Phoenix. Unfortunately, lacking an Innate Spiritual Treasure [a treasure born with a being, sharing its destiny and growing with it] as part of its foundation, its strength among Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal [Ancient Immortals who have survived eight Heavenly Tribulations] was considered among the lowest.

He was a being formed from Chaos Black Dragon Iron, capable of devouring various immortal metals to strengthen his physical body. If he could consume this piece of Dark Immortal Gold and integrate it into his Chaos Black Dragon Physique, his power should see a modest increase.

After the treasures were divided, everyone wore expressions of joy, their gazes turning once more to Eldrin Chen.

At this moment, even Umbralia instinctively regarded Eldrin Chen as their pillar of support. She could not help but speak, "Brother, in your esteemed view, should we first digest our gains, or continue exploring this Immortal Ruins Ancient Continent?"

Eldrin Chen had long since formed his opinion and stated without hesitation, "This Immortal Ruins Ancient Continent is far too perilous. While our strength is considerable, if we were besieged by more than twenty Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal or encountered top-tier figures like Zhuyin, it is highly likely someone among us would fall on the battlefield."

"I believe our most pressing task is to focus entirely on digesting our harvest and elevating everyone's strength."

Hearing this, everyone nodded slightly in agreement.

On the current Immortal Ruins Ancient Continent, more than three thousand Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortals [powerful cultivators who have survived eight heavenly tribulations] have entered this calamity. On the path to proving their Dao and attaining the Grand Luo Golden Immortal [the supreme realm of a Golden Immortal within the Great Luo hierarchy] realm, they are all mortal enemies, locked in a struggle to the death for each other's Dao Source [the foundational source and essence of one's cultivation path].

In such circumstances, none can guarantee their own survival. The only path to potentially endure and even achieve the Realm of the Great Luo Golden Immortal lies in feeding one's strength through constant battle, growing ever more powerful in the crucible of conflict.

Contemplating this, Rift-Heaven Demon Emperor nodded and declared, "The Li Yang Fire Jade [a legendary jade imbued with pure Yang fire essence] holds no use for me. I shall not enter seclusion this time."

"Let it be thus," he continued. "You shall enter seclusion to refine the Dao Source, and I shall stand guard for you."

Witnessing this, the Ancient Ice Phoenix also inclined her head gracefully. "I shall join in guarding your retreat," she affirmed.

Eldrin Chen acknowledged their offer with a nod. "I will erect a grand formation. I must trouble you both to remain vigilant during this period."

As he spoke, he drew from his sleeve one hundred and eight Primordial Supreme Unity Golden Bamboo Swords [swords forged from a primordial golden bamboo, embodying supreme unity]. Using the fractured Grand Luo earth vein as its foundation, he laid down a single, formidable formation: the Minor Cosmic Heaven-Earth Fiend Limitless Sword Formation [a sword formation of cosmic scale, creating a boundless, fiend-suppressing domain].

Once the sword formation was established, he entrusted its operation to the Ancient Ice Phoenix and Rift-Heaven Demon Emperor, then proceeded into the heart of the fractured earth vein.

Before entering seclusion, he handed both the Qiankun Mother Stone [a primordial stone embodying the essence of Heaven and Earth] and the Earth Element Origin [the pure, foundational essence of the Earth element] to Lyra Jiang. Of these two treasures, the Qiankun Mother Stone was the supreme material for Ascension [the process of elevating a magical treasure's grade] the Earthly Soil Primordial Essence Disc [a magical treasure that harnesses the primordial power of earth], while the Earth Element Origin was one of the five essential origins required for cultivating the Primordial Chaos Qi [a divine ability that channels the primordial, undifferentiated energy of creation].

Eldrin Chen had no personal need for either; he had specifically acquired them in exchange for Lyra Jiang.

After bestowing these two treasures, Eldrin Chen immediately entered seclusion to cultivate. His first act was to retrieve the Dao Source [the condensed essence of a being's cultivation and enlightenment] of the Golden-Winged Roc Imperial Scion.

The Golden-Winged Roc Imperial Scion proved worthy of his status as an Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal [an immortal who has survived eight heavenly tribulations]. The Dao Source he left behind was brimming with boundless insights and epiphanies, far more profound and majestic than that of the Nether Emperor.

Eldrin Chen continuously refined and absorbed it, a process that consumed three thousand years before the essence was fully integrated.

Having assimilated the Dao Source of the Golden-Winged Roc Imperial Scion, Eldrin Chen turned his focus to comprehending the Primordial Chaos Gold Great Dao [the Great Dao of Primordial Chaos Gold]. This time, a mere three thousand years sufficed for him to grasp its deepest mysteries.

With this, the embryonic form of his Primordial Chaos Gold Great Dao was not only perfected, but it seemed to stand on the very precipice of its final, complete manifestation.

"My Chaos Limitless Great Dao Embryo [the embryonic form of the Chaos Limitless Great Dao] now lacks only the final thread: the Earthly Soil Great Dao [the Great Dao of Earthly Soil]," Eldrin Chen murmured to himself, a faint smile gracing his lips.

He whispered these words, yet a smile touched the corners of his mouth.

By his estimation, once the embryonic form of his Chaos Limitless Great Dao was fully forged, its power should reach the level of an Eleventh Limit [a foundational cultivation stage of the eleventh limit].

Of course, a mere Great Dao Embryo [embryonic form of a Great Dao] would still be insufficient to cross the threshold into the True Spirit Realm [the realm of the True Spirit].

For all beneath a True Spirit [the true spiritual core of an ultimate being] are but ants. The chasm between a foundation at the Twelfth Limit Foundation [foundation of the twelfth limit] and one at the Eleventh Limit is a gulf nearly impossible to bridge.

Across the vast expanse of the Three Thousand Immortal Domains [the collective name for the myriad realms of cultivation], there exist the Three Great Celestial Courts [the supreme governing powers of the immortal world], the Hundred Immortal Spirit Races [the ancient and powerful non-human clans], and the Three Thousand Ancient Sects [the long-established and prestigious cultivation sects]. The number of Grand Luo Golden Immortals [the pinnacle cultivators who have attained the Golden Immortal realm] surely exceeds tens of thousands?

Within such a colossal Three Thousand Immortal Domains, the probability of birthing peerless prodigies is also immense. Almost every two or three cycles of a Kalpa Tribulation [a cosmic cycle of destruction and rebirth], one or two geniuses who have forged an Eleventh Limit Indestructible Foundation [a legendary, nearly unbreakable cultivation foundation] can appear.

However, those capable of cultivating a True Spirit Foundation [the ultimate, perfect foundation embodying a cultivator's true spiritual essence] remain exceedingly rare. Even across dozens or hundreds of Kalpa Tribulations, one may not necessarily emerge.

Even a figure like Aurelius, the Little Celestial Emperor has lived for hundreds of Kalpa Tribulations. He was not a talent born within the last hundred cycles; he merely delayed his breakthrough for centuries to cultivate a second True Spirit Foundation.

Even with the talent of Eldrin Chen, to cultivate the True Spirit Great Dao [the supreme path leading to the True Spirit Foundation], relying solely on the Chaos Limitless Great Dao Embryo [the embryonic form of the limitless Chaos Dao] would be utterly insufficient.

He must completely comprehend five complete Great Daos [the fundamental laws of existence] and fuse them into a perfect Chaos Limitless Great Dao to take that final, monumental step.

"Yet, within the Immortal Ruins Ancient Continent [a legendary, perilous continent filled with the remnants of fallen immortal civilizations], there is no shortage of Dao Source [objects containing the pure essence of a Great Dao] from the Eight Tribulations Realm [a high realm of cultivation]. That should allow my comprehension of the Great Daos to advance by leaps and bounds, should it not?"

These thoughts flickered through Eldrin Chen's mind before he swiftly reined them in.

Setting aside his contemplations, he turned and retrieved the Spatial Source Stone [a rare ore imbued with spatial energies]. A faint smile touched the corners of his eyes.

Eldrin Chen's Innate Divine Ability [a supreme power born from one's deepest spiritual nature], 'Boundless Cosmos Sword', was originally cultivated using Great Luo Sword Miasma [a deadly, sword-aspected miasma from the Great Luo realm] as a catalyst. Consequently, this divine ability leans heavily towards the mysteries of Slaughter [the Dao of killing and destruction], possessing slightly less of the power of space itself.

According to the cultivation art he had devised, to fully master this divine ability, he still needed to gather a spatial wonder as a catalyst.

Now, with this piece of Spatial Source Stone [a rare mineral containing the fundamental essence of space], Eldrin Chen possessed the means to begin completing the Boundless Cosmos Sword [a supreme sword technique that harnesses the power of the boundless cosmos].

"Hmm—"

A soft hum resonated as Eldrin Chen immediately channeled his True Spirit Primordial Spirit [the highest form of spiritual core, representing one's true essence] and Indestructible Dharma Power [an unyielding and pure form of cultivation energy], continuously drawing the spatial essence from within the Spatial Source Stone and fusing it into the Boundless Cosmos Sword.

Using this as the catalyst, the Boundless Cosmos Sword immediately underwent a subtle transformation.

Within Eldrin Chen's Primordial Spirit [the foundational spiritual essence of a cultivator], within the acupoint that housed the Boundless Cosmos Sword, that dazzlingly brilliant sword radiance began to ceaselessly absorb the spatial essence, gradually igniting point by point.

Only after a long while did Eldrin Chen slowly open his eyes.

"The Eleventh Limit, a Primordial Chaos Grade Divine Ability."

Eldrin Chen murmured inwardly, a flicker of astonishment appearing in his gaze.

This time, after fully integrating the power of space, the Boundless Cosmos Sword had actually Ascension [a qualitative leap in power or realm] to the Eleventh Limit Realm [a legendary tier of power surpassing the conventional ten limits], becoming a Primordial Chaos Grade Divine Ability [a supreme ability born from the primordial chaos at the dawn of creation].

The Primordial Unity Divine Art [a supreme divine ability of the Primordial Unity grade], also known as the Half-Step Supreme Grade Divine Ability [a divine ability of near-ultimate power], is, as the name suggests, a world-shaking power belonging to the realm of a Primordial Unity Emperor Lord [a supreme emperor lord of the Primordial Unity grade].

Such divine arts possess unparalleled destructive power, wielding a force that far surpasses that of Patriarch-Grade Divine Ability [divine abilities of the patriarch level].

After a brief moment of sensing, Eldrin Chen discovered that the Boundless Cosmos Sword [a sword technique of limitless spatial power] held immense potency, yet it differed somewhat from the Primordial Chaos Divine Thunder [a divine thunder born of primordial chaos], another divine art of the Primordial Unity grade.

That Primordial Chaos Divine Thunder excels in frontal assault, possessing an irresistible force of annihilation.

This Boundless Cosmos Sword, however, is formless and intangible. While its raw power may not match the domineering Primordial Chaos Divine Thunder, it concentrates extreme killing intent into a single point, granting it a penetrative force far exceeding that of the Primordial Chaos Divine Thunder.

Furthermore, this Boundless Cosmos Sword can conceal itself within the Dimensional Void [the interstitial spaces between dimensions]. If used for ambush, this divine art can deliver a fatal blow to a powerful foe in an instant.

After briefly channeling it for a moment, Eldrin Chen felt a cold dread stirring within his heart.

He had a sense that, while this divine art could not be used for frontal assaults, the lethal threat it posed was likely far more terrifying than that of the Primordial Chaos Divine Thunder.

"Time is supreme, Space is king."

"With such potency in a spatial divine art, it is no wonder that among all the Great Daos [the fundamental principles of the cosmos], only the Time-Space Great Dao [the supreme principle governing time and space] can stand shoulder to shoulder with the Primordial Five Ultimates [the five primordial supreme principles] and the Chaos Great Dao [the fundamental principle of primordial chaos]."

Eldrin Chen murmured softly, a wave of profound relief washing over him.

It was fortunate that he was the one who had mastered this divine ability. If another top-tier Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal had cultivated this Primordial Chaos Grade Divine Ability, he himself might have suffered a grievous setback.

Even if the opponent could not defeat him, Lyra Jiang and the others might very well have perished under the might of such a power.

At this thought, Eldrin Chen said with a faint smile, "If we encounter Firmament Heaven Imperial Scion again, it will not be so easy for him to escape."

Having completed his cultivation of the divine ability, Eldrin Chen delayed no further.

He immediately emerged from his secluded cultivation chamber to find most of his companions still in deep meditation. Only his Reincarnation Body and Nyssa Qu had emerged ahead of him.

By now, Nyssa Qu had fully refined the Dao Source [the foundational essence of one's cultivation path] of the Purple Glow Roc Imperial Scion, solidifying her cultivation firmly within the Eight Calamities Ancient Immortal Realm.

Bolstered by the profound foundation of her Nine-Colored Immortal Pearl and her Chaos-Grade Bloodline as a Nine-Colored Immortal Clam, Nyssa Qu's power had grown immensely since solidifying her position in the Eight Calamities Ancient Immortal Realm.

Now, Nyssa Qu had cultivated all five of her Heavenly Passes—her physical body, her Great Dao [the fundamental cosmic principle one embodies], her Dao Fruit [the culmination of one's cultivation journey], her mana, and her Primordial Spirit [the spiritual core of a cultivator]—to the Ten-Limit.

Furthermore, her Bloodline Divine Ability, the Nine-Colored Immortal Light, had fully awakened, reaching the realm of the Eleventh Limit Heavenly Pass.

Furthermore, although he had not yet set foot upon the Spiritual Treasure Heavenly Pass [the cultivation stage focused on refining one's spiritual treasures], the Nine-Colored Immortal Pearl [a legendary pearl of immense power] was a supreme treasure of the Immortal Clam Race [a race of powerful clam demons], and it was in perfect harmony with Nyssa Qu. This allowed him to cultivate the Spiritual Treasure Heavenly Pass to the Ten-Limit [the tenth and penultimate stage of perfection within a cultivation realm] realm.

With such combat prowess and foundation, he was likely even a fraction stronger than Vorgath the Nether Prison. Facing two ordinary Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal [an Ancient Immortal who has survived eight heavenly tribulations] cultivators, he could probably hold the upper hand in a one-against-two battle.

Regarding this, Eldrin Chen was quite satisfied. He took Nyssa Qu's hand and said, "Your progress this time is significant, my lady. Given your foundation and latent potential, the likelihood of you cultivating an Indestructible Foundation [a foundation of legendary, unbreakable perfection] in the future is extremely high."

Nyssa Qu offered a gentle smile, her voice a warm mental whisper, "This Nine-Colored Immortal Pearl contains a portion of the original essence left behind by the ancient Nine-Colored Immortal Clam Progenitor [the primordial ancestor of all Immortal Clams]. If I can fully refine it, it should at least assist me in cultivating one aspect of my foundation to the Indestructible Foundation level."

"As for anything beyond that, it will depend on my own fortune and destiny."

Eldrin Chen nodded in understanding. The bloodline of the Nine-Colored Immortal Clam [a mythical clam demon of supreme rank] was exceptionally noble. The ancient Nine-Colored Immortal Clam Progenitor was among the first batch of Innate Beings [beings born directly from the primal chaos of creation] within the Three Thousand Immortal Domains [the collective name for the myriad realms of immortals]. It was the progenitor of countless clam races under heaven, a figure whose seniority placed him as a contemporary of the Primordial Beginning Divine Emperor [a title for a supreme divine emperor from the dawn of time].

With such an exalted bloodline, in theory, upon its complete awakening, all seven foundational pillars—the physical body, the Great Dao [the fundamental law of existence], the Dao Fruit [the crystallized essence of one's cultivation path], mana, the Primordial Spirit [the spiritual core of a cultivator], divine abilities, and the Companion Spiritual Treasure [a treasure that grows and evolves with its master]—should at least reach the Eleventh Limit [the legendary eleventh and ultimate stage of perfection] level of Indestructible Foundation.

According to Eldrin Chen's conjecture, it would not be too surprising if that Nine-Colored Immortal Clam Progenitor had cultivated a True Spirit Foundation [a mythical foundation of even greater perfection than Indestructible].

Unfortunately, Nyssa Qu was a Nine-Colored Immortal Clam cultivated in the later ages. She did not possess the uniquely advantageous conditions of the original Nine-Colored Immortal Clam Progenitor.

Although her potential was boundless, refining all her foundational pillars to the Eleventh Limit Imperishable [a state of absolute, eternal perfection] realm would require a vast ocean of resources and Opportunity [fateful encounters and chances crucial for advancement].

With this thought, Eldrin Chen spoke, "My lady, there is no need for haste. Once I break through to the Great Luo Realm in the future, I will find a way to help you mend your foundational roots."

As he spoke, a sound came from the nearby secluded cultivation chamber. A stone door was flung open with a resounding crash. Eldrin Chen turned to look and saw Lyra Jiang emerge from within the chamber.

Perhaps because she had just concluded her seclusion, Lyra Jiang had not yet fully stabilized her aura, allowing Eldrin Chen to discern her cultivation realm at a single glance. This sight caused a wave of relief to wash over him.

"It seems your gains were not insignificant either."

Lyra Jiang offered a faint smile. This time, she had taken the Dao Source [the primordial essence of a Great Dao] from the Crimson Departure Roc Clan Imperial Scion. After refining it, she had succeeded in fully cultivating the Great Dao of 'Samadhi True Fire' [the supreme flame of samadhi, a state of deep meditative concentration] in one fell swoop.

A fully formed Great Dao is fundamentally different from a mere Great Dao Embryo [the nascent, unformed seed of a Great Dao]. The completion of this Dao granted Lyra Jiang a substantial surge in power. Furthermore, she had seized the opportunity to cultivate the Indestructible Dharma Power [a supreme cultivation art that forges one's spiritual power into an unbreakable state], greatly augmenting her overall strength.

At this point, Lyra Jiang had already broken through the six great heavenly barriers: the barriers of the physical body, the Great Dao, spiritual power, the Primordial Spirit [the spiritual core of a cultivator], the Dao Heart [the cultivator's unwavering will and connection to the Dao], and divine abilities.

Although her cultivation realm still fell short of an Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal, among the six heavenly barriers, she had already achieved an Indestructible Great Dao, Indestructible Dharma Power, an Indestructible Primordial Spirit [a Primordial Spirit refined to an unbreakable state], and an Indestructible Divine Ability [a divine ability perfected to an unbreakable level].

These four Indestructible Foundation [foundational aspects of cultivation refined to an unbreakable state] brought about a qualitative leap in Lyra Jiang's combat prowess. Now, when she wields the Minor Heavenly Cycle Taiyi Sword Formation [a formidable sword formation based on the cycles of heaven] alongside her Innate Spiritual Treasure [a treasure born from the primal forces of heaven and earth], the Profound Heaven Mirror, the power of both has seen a significant increase.

In terms of battle strength, she is now a match for Nyssa Qu, who is at the Eight Calamities Ancient Immortal Realm.

This was still because Lyra Jiang had not fused with an Innate Spiritual Treasure [a supreme treasure born from the world's essence, capable of growing with its wielder], nor had she attempted to condense a Great Luo Dao Fruit [the ultimate fruit of one's cultivation path, representing the pinnacle of one's Dao]. Otherwise, with her foundation of four Indestructible Foundation [a legendary, unshakable cultivation base], once she broke through to the Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal [an Ancient Immortal who has weathered eight Heavenly Tribulations] realm, her combat power would undoubtedly undergo a qualitative leap.

By that time, even Firmament Heaven Imperial Scion would most likely be no match for her.

The reason Lyra Jiang did not fuse with an Innate Spiritual Treasure was naturally because she looked down upon ordinary ones like the Profound Heaven Mirror.

As for why she had not attempted to condense a Great Luo Dao Fruit, it was primarily because, before her Great Luo Body [a perfected physical form aligned with the Great Dao] and her Great Dao were fully perfected, condensing the Great Luo Dao Fruit would affect the quality of the Dao Fruit [the crystallized essence of a cultivator's comprehension of the Dao].

The reason Eldrin Chen himself had not condensed his Dao Fruit was also because his Primordial Chaos Indestructible Body [a legendary physique of unbreakable chaos] and his Chaos Limitless Great Dao [the Great Dao of boundless, primordial chaos] were not yet fully formed.

Returning to the main point, with the breakthroughs of Lyra Jiang and Nyssa Qu, Eldrin Chen suddenly felt that their prospects for surviving the coming Kalpa Tribulation [a cataclysmic heavenly trial that reshapes eras] had greatly improved.

This was because the combat power of the two women allowed them to face two Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal opponents at once. In future encounters with top-tier Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal, they would no longer be utterly defenseless; joining forces, they could even provide Eldrin Chen with significant assistance.

Thinking of this, Eldrin Chen felt a surge of pleasant surprise in his heart. He began exchanging insights with the two women while waiting for the others to emerge from their seclusion.

In truth, not long after the two women entered seclusion, the others also gradually finished digesting their gains and began to emerge from their closed-door cultivation one after another.

Before long, the Chaos Black Dragon was the fourth to stride out from the seclusion chamber. This time, having devoured the Dark Immortal Gold [a mythical metal imbued with dark immortal energy], its combat power had increased by roughly another ten percent.

Though it was merely a single increment, the Chaos Black Dragon was, after all, a Chaotic Holy Spirit [a being born from the primordial chaos, possessing immense innate power].

And as was widely known, Chaos Ancient Beast [primordial beasts born from chaos] were peerless in physical strength within their own realm. The Chaos Black Dragon, being a Chaotic Holy Spirit, was a sovereign among such Chaos Ancient Beast.

Now, with its foundation elevated by one increment within the Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal [a realm signifying survival through eight heavenly tribulations] tier, its physical power had even drawn near to the level of a True Spirit Physique [a legendary body constitution of immense strength and resilience].

Alas, the Chaos Black Dragon's circumstances were unique. It had nearly failed to gestate completely in the beginning, and its Companion Supreme Treasure [a supreme treasure born alongside a being, sharing its fate and power] had long since withered away entirely.

Without a Companion Supreme Treasure to serve as its foundational support, even after being forcibly elevated to the Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal realm by Eldrin Chen using Primordial Essence [the purest form of primordial energy], its combat prowess remained a notch inferior.

The current Chaos Black Dragon, even after refining a piece of the Great Luo Rare Treasure [a rare treasure of the Great Luo Heaven] known as Dark Immortal Gold [a mystical metal of profound darkness], could only barely muster combat power roughly equivalent to an ordinary Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal.

"It seems in the future, I must still seek an Innate Spiritual Treasure [a spiritual treasure born from heaven and earth, possessing innate laws] for it,"

Eldrin Chen murmured inwardly, his gaze drifting once more toward the seclusion chamber.

Not long after the Chaos Black Dragon emerged, both Umbralia and the Reincarnation Body [a body cultivated through a profound reincarnation technique] stepped out from their seclusion chambers in succession.

This time, Umbralia seemed to have gained immensely. Her combat power had undergone another qualitative transformation, her aura now drawing remarkably close to that of the former Firmament Heaven Imperial Scion.

"Another Indestructible Foundation [a supreme and unbreakable cultivation foundation] has been achieved?"

Eldrin Chen murmured, a flicker of astonishment appearing in the depths of his gaze.

As for the Reincarnation Body [a profound ability to manifest an independent avatar], it remained utterly unassuming, its aura completely condensed and unified, making its true depths impossible to discern.

Only Eldrin Chen knew that the Reincarnation Body possessed a True Spirit Foundation [a foundational cultivation realm focused on purifying one's spiritual essence], but due to the unique nature of the Path of Self-Sacrifice [a cultivation art that requires profound personal sacrifice], it could no longer forge any other foundational realms.

Under such circumstances, even after refining two Dao Source [a primordial spiritual object containing the essence of the Great Dao], Samsara [the cycle of death and rebirth] did not experience as dramatic an increase in power as the others; his spiritual energy and insights merely grew more profound and vast.

Of course, Eldrin Chen understood clearly that the Reincarnation Body simply lacked a suitable Innate Spiritual Treasure [a supreme magical treasure born from the primordial chaos].

If granted a fitting Innate Spiritual Treasure, its combat prowess would instantly soar to a level capable of overwhelming Firmament Heaven Imperial Scion.

However, the foundation of Eldrin Chen's Reincarnation Body was extraordinary. Merging with an ordinary Innate Spiritual Treasure as a Dao-proving treasure would instead diminish its latent potential. The optimal choice remained to Ascension [the process of elevating one's cultivation or treasures to a higher state] his life-bound treasure to the realm of an Innate Spiritual Treasure.

Returning to the matter at hand, after emerging from seclusion, Umbralia glanced at the group, her eyes widening with profound surprise. "I understand now," she said. "It seems none among us are simple."

"With my innate talent, I do not even stand out as exceptional among you."

Upon hearing this, Eldrin Chen also offered a faint smile.

Among those present, Eldrin Chen's innate talent was beyond question, while Umbralia was the direct-line disciple of Grand Nether Emperor Lord.

His Reincarnation Body was founded upon a True Spirit Foundation, the Nine-Colored Immortal Clam possessed a bloodline aptitude at the Primordial Unity Emperor Lord Level, and Lyra Jiang was a prodigy of the ages, second only to Eldrin Chen himself.

In comparison, the Ancient Ice Phoenix, the Chaos Black Dragon, and Rift-Heaven Demon Emperor seemed slightly less exceptional.

Yet these three were far from ordinary. Both the Ancient Ice Phoenix and the Chaos Black Dragon were Chaotic Holy Spirit [a rare and powerful type of spirit born from primordial chaos] whose talents could startle immortals, and Rift-Heaven Demon Emperor was the direct-line disciple-grandson of Grand Frost Emperor Lord.

Thus, while they might appear less dazzling than the others, among Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal [an Ancient Immortal who has survived eight Heavenly Tribulations], their aptitudes could still be considered above average.

Seeing this, Nyssa Qu said with a smile, "You jest, sister. With your aptitude, you would undoubtedly rank within the top one hundred among the three thousand Great Luo True Seed [those destined with the potential to reach the Great Luo Realm] on this Immortal Ruins Ancient Continent."

Umbralia smiled without speaking. If she could rank within the top one hundred, then the others present could surely do the same among the three thousand Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal.

In that moment, Umbralia began to grasp the deeper meaning behind Grand Nether Emperor Lord's arrangements.

As the saying goes, dragons do not dwell with serpents, nor tigers walk with hounds. Standing shoulder to shoulder with Eldrin Chen and this company of genuine Great Luo True Seed was far more reliable than collaborating with ordinary Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal.

She had already discerned with clarity that Eldrin Chen, having cultivated a True Spirit Foundation [the most profound and stable foundation for future ascension], was certain to achieve a breakthrough into the Grand Luo [the realm of the Golden Immortals, beings of profound power and longevity].

As a Nine-Colored Immortal Clam [a mythical clam of immense spiritual power and longevity], a being of the Primordial Chaos Emperor Lord Bloodline [a lineage tracing back to the primordial lords of chaos, granting immense potential], and with the full support of the wealthiest clan among the Hundred Immortal Spirit Races [a legendary alliance of one hundred powerful immortal spirit lineages]—the Immortal Clam Race—Nyssa Qu's future path was assured. While attaining the Primordial Chaos Emperor Monarch [the sovereign realm above Grand Luo] might be uncertain, her breakthrough to Grand Luo was virtually guaranteed.

The cultivation method of the Reincarnation Body [a profound technique involving the refinement of a body through cycles of rebirth] was enigmatic, unlike orthodox immortal paths. Its nature was so obscure it even evoked a sense of wariness within her. Yet, this very mystery suggested an immense likelihood of attaining the Grand Luo realm.

Though Lyra Jiang appeared to be merely a Six Tribulations Ancient Immortal [an Ancient Immortal who has survived six heavenly tribulations], she already possessed combat power rivaling an Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal [an Ancient Immortal who has survived eight heavenly tribulations]. She had cultivated at least three or four types of Indestructible Foundation [foundations renowned for their unbreakable stability and power]. Once she broke through to become an Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal, she would likely rank among figures of Zhuyin's caliber.

Such a once-in-an-era prodigy was perhaps a figure the Human Race saw only once every ten billion years. In the future, she might even cultivate a True Spirit Foundation.

"Hiss—"

After this mental tally, Umbralia drew in a sharp, cold breath.

If her perceptions were correct, would not this gathering give birth to at least four or five Grand Luo Golden Immortal [Golden Immortals of the Grand Luo realm, pinnacle beings of the immortal path]?

At this thought, her gaze swept over the others. She noticed Rift-Heaven Demon Emperor and the Ancient Ice Phoenix [a primordial phoenix embodying the essence of eternal frost], among others, their pupils constricting in shock, as if they too had sensed the profound anomaly.

"What a magnificent convergence of destiny's favor."

"Perhaps I have witnessed the rise of one, or even several Primordial Chaos Emperor Monarchs?"

Umbralia murmured inwardly, a trace of awe coloring her thoughts.

At that very moment, Eldrin Chen cast a glance over the assembled group and said with a smile, "Since everyone has achieved their breakthrough, it is time we prepare to depart."

"Right now, upon the Immortal Ruins Ancient Continent, various factions are locked in fierce contention. Once any side gains a decisive advantage, their strength will surely surge. We can afford to waste no more time."

Hearing this, everyone nodded in agreement. Umbralia spoke up, "If that is the case, let us set out immediately."

As her words faded, Eldrin Chen withdrew his sword formation. He then led the group away from the fractured Great Luo Earth Vein and ventured deeper into the heart of the Immortal Ruins Ancient Continent.

To address the earlier question: when it was mentioned that Candle Dragon Scion possessed a foundation more profound than most Grand Luo Golden Immortals, this referred to his innate talent and latent potential, not his immediate combat prowess. Foundation is merely the bedrock; it constitutes only one part of one's battle strength. The higher one ascends, the more immense the gulf in power wrought by cultivation realms becomes. The disparity between a Grand Luo Golden Immortal and an Eight Tribulation Ancient Immortal is simply unbridgeable. Not even Candle Dragon Scion, nor even Aurelius, the Little Celestial Emperor who has cultivated a True Spirit Physique, would dare provoke a Grand Luo Golden Immortal. The weakest among them could still swat such an upstart dead with a single, casual blow—though the latter might resurrect afterward by virtue of their True Spirit Physique.

In the later stages, especially across the vast divides of major realms like Grand Luo Golden Immortal, Primordial Chaos Emperor Monarch, and Chaos Celestial Emperor, it is fundamentally impossible to overcome such a gap and slay a foe of a higher realm.