Chapter 2043 : A Mother's Ancient Sacrifice Revealed

Eldrin Chen's gaze flickered subtly, and then he spoke, "That is precisely the case."

Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant felt a surge of joy in her heart, yet she refrained from speaking.

She led the group into the Azure Phoenix Primordial Domain [the primordial realm and ancestral homeland of the Azure Simurgh Phoenix Clan]. She had someone escort Eldrin Chen to a side hall to rest, and then personally guided Indestructible Elder to meet with Azure Simurgh Sacred Emperor.

Meanwhile, Eldrin Chen was received by two Phoenix Clan Great Emperor [cultivators who have reached the pinnacle of the Great Emperor realm, a supreme level of power], and they did not commit any breach of etiquette.

Thus, not long after, Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant hurriedly arrived at the main hall and met with Eldrin Chen alone.

Within the great hall, upon seeing Eldrin Chen, Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant immediately inquired, "From within your body, young friend, I have detected a familiar aura."

"If you are acquainted with her, as I suspect, you should also be able to discern my identity."

Eldrin Chen nodded slightly, then asked in return, "If my deduction is correct, Senior, you must be the mother of Violet Ultimate Ancient Phoenix [an ancient and supremely powerful phoenix of the Violet lineage]?"

"Indeed," Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant affirmed with a nod, then asked, "Has Violet Ultimate Ancient Phoenix ever spoken of me to you?"

"Yes," Eldrin Chen nodded and replied, "She once mentioned that, approximately more than three thousand Kalpa Tribulation [cosmic cycles of destruction and rebirth, each spanning billions of years] ago, her mother was ambushed by a Great Dao Adversary [a formidable enemy born from the contradictions and opposition within the Great Dao itself] while she was pregnant."

"To protect her, you traversed the Boundless Chaotic Desolate Sea and nurtured her within the Seven Domains of the Southern Abyss."

"It was only because the power behind you faced calamity that you had to depart hastily after giving birth to her."

The Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant nodded, a wave of relief washing over her.

Since the Violet Ultimate Ancient Phoenix was her own daughter, she would not casually reveal such a profound secret to just anyone. The fact that Eldrin Chen knew this information likely indicated a deep connection with her daughter.

Thinking this, the Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant spoke: "Back then, our Azure Phoenix Primordial Domain erupted into the Chaos Great War against the Vast Abyss Primordial Domain."

"That conflict raged for an immensely long time, only coming to a temporary halt several hundred Kalpa Tribulation [immense cosmic cycles] ago."

"I broke through to the Sage Ascendant Realm during that period and was planning to retrieve Violet Ultimate. Now that I have news of her, I can finally breathe a sigh of relief."

At this point, the Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant inquired further: "By the way, how has that girl been faring all these years?"

Eldrin Chen pondered briefly before replying candidly: "The Violet Ultimate Ancient Phoenix shares a close bond with me. In her early years, she suffered grievous wounds due to a Great Dao Adversary [a fated nemesis who obstructs one's path to the Great Dao]."

"Later, I helped her sever that Great Dao Adversary, and now her cultivation has reached the Great Luo Golden Immortal Great Perfection."

Upon hearing this, Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant [a supreme being who has attained sagehood]'s expression shifted several times, finally letting out a soft sigh. "I sustained grave injuries while carrying her," she said, "which led to her innate deficiencies."

"Otherwise, given her bloodline, she should have long since stepped into the Primordial Chaos Realm [the foundational realm of cultivation within the primordial chaos]."

Hearing this, Eldrin Chen understood the noble pedigree of the Violet Ultimate Ancient Phoenix [a legendary avian demon beast of supreme violet radiance].

That Violet Ultimate Ancient Phoenix was the bloodline descendant jointly conceived by the Chaos Celestial Emperor [the supreme ruler of the primordial chaos], 'Azure Simurgh Sacred Emperor' [the sacred emperor of the azure simurgh lineage], and Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant.

Even though Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant's cultivation at the time was merely at the Great Perfection of Primordial Emperor Lord [the pinnacle stage of the Primordial Emperor Lord realm], the phoenix maiden born from their union was destined to possess a world-shaking, peerless grace.

Yet, they had not anticipated that shortly after Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant became pregnant, news of it reached her Great Dao Adversary [a fated nemesis on the path of cultivation], triggering a cataclysmic battle that shook the very foundations of Chaos [the primordial, formless state of existence].

That battle forced Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant to flee into the Primordial Chaos Desolate Sea [a vast, untamed expanse within the primordial chaos]. Within the Seven Domains of the Southern Abyss [a specific region of the Southern Abyss], she gave birth to the Violet Ultimate Ancient Phoenix, but the ordeal also caused the child's innate foundation to be deficient, drastically diminishing her potential.

Understanding this, Eldrin Chen could only offer consolation. "With Your Majesty's means," he said, "I trust you will surely be able to mend and complete Violet Ultimate Ancient Phoenix's foundational aptitude [the spiritual and physical foundation crucial for cultivation]."

Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant nodded, then spoke. "Since that is the case, in a few days' time, I shall make the journey to the Seven Domains of the Southern Abyss and bring that girl back."

Hearing this, Eldrin Chen felt a subtle stirring within his heart.

He turned his gaze toward Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant and, after a moment of careful deliberation, spoke candidly, "To be perfectly honest, my arrival in the Blazing Central Primordial Domain was not by choice. I was driven into the Primordial Chaos Desolate Sea by a formidable foe."

"When you journey to the Seven Domains of the Southern Abyss, Senior, I humbly ask that you do not reveal any news of my whereabouts."

"Oh?"

A flicker of surprise passed through the eyes of Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant.

Seeing this, Eldrin Chen had no choice but to recount the general sequence of events to Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant.

After listening, Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant let out a cold laugh. "I have long heard that the Solar Celestial Emperor of the Seven Domains of the Southern Abyss possesses a domineering and ruthless temperament. Yet, I never imagined he would lack even the slightest capacity for tolerance."

With these words, Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant finally stated, "Set your mind at ease. When I go to the Seven Domains of the Southern Abyss, I will also issue a warning to those powerful figures of the Demon Race who are besieging the Abyssal Ruins Dao Domain."

"For that, I offer my deepest gratitude, Senior."

Eldrin Chen promptly clasped his hands in salute, his voice tinged with relief.

Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant smiled faintly. From within her sleeve, she produced a fiery-red divine fruit and handed it to Eldrin Chen. "This is a Nirvana Phoenix Fruit. For an Immortal of the Flesh Ascendant lineage [a cultivation path focused on tempering the physical body to its ultimate limits], it is a rather valuable cultivation resource."

"You should keep this. I hope you can soon achieve a breakthrough in your cultivation and return to the Seven Domains of the Southern Abyss to exact your vengeance."

"This is far too generous."

Eldrin Chen hastily declined, a flicker of astonishment crossing his features.

The Nirvana Phoenix Fruit was a treasure of immeasurable worth, a precious fruit born from the Innate Supreme Treasure Spiritual Root known as the Phoenix Parasol Tree. Its value was nearly on par with that of the Great Wilderness Sacred Fruit.

For Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant to present him with one now was a gift of such staggering magnitude that Eldrin Chen felt almost unworthy of accepting it.

Seeing his hesitation, Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant smiled warmly and said, "You saved Azure Extreme Sacred Emperor's life and helped her sever her Great Dao Adversary [a profound karmic obstacle or rival that hinders one's path to the Great Dao]. Consider this a token of our gratitude."

"I truly must insist you do not refuse."

Only then did Eldrin Chen accept the Nirvana Phoenix Fruit.

After the fruit was safely received, Violet Phoenix Sage Ascendant inquired further about the circumstances surrounding the Violet Ultimate Ancient Phoenix and gathered more information regarding the affairs of the Seven Domains of the Southern Abyss before finally taking her leave.

Not long after, Indestructible Elder returned from the Azure Simurgh Sacred Hall, his countenance graced by a rare and unmistakable look of satisfaction.

Seeing this, Eldrin Chen could not help but speak, "It seems you have achieved your wish, Senior."

"One Nirvana Sacred Fruit [a legendary fruit said to grant rebirth and profound healing], plus a vast amount of resources for healing injuries."

The Indestructible Elder spoke slowly, then said with a smile, "With these resources, after I return and enter seclusion for several hundred Kalpa Tribulations [immense cosmic cycles in Buddhist cosmology, often billions of years], I should be able to restore the greater part of my injuries."

Eldrin Chen nodded slightly and immediately cupped his hands in salute, saying, "Then I offer my congratulations in advance on your recovery and your rebirth after tribulation, Senior."

"Hahaha."

The Indestructible Elder chuckled, patted his shoulder, and said, "Come, I will take you to broaden your horizons."

As he spoke, the Indestructible Elder led the group towards the Blazing Central Primordial Domain [a central, primordial realm of immense power and significance]. Before they knew it, they had arrived within a specific region of the Blazing Central Primordial Domain.

After arriving at the Blazing Central Primordial Domain, the Indestructible Elder explained, "Within the Blazing Central Chaos Domain [the chaotic, foundational region of the Blazing Central Domain], once every one hundred Kalpa Tribulations, a Treasure Exchange Grand Assembly [a grand gathering for the exchange of rare treasures] at the Sage Ascendant [a supreme cultivation realm just below Sagehood] level is held."

"Our timing is fortuitous. Such a Sage Ascendant-level Treasure Exchange Grand Assembly is currently being held."

With these words, the Indestructible Elder led Eldrin Chen into a majestic and towering great hall.

The Treasure Exchange Grand Assembly had commenced. Merely by revealing his cultivation aura, the Indestructible Elder was handed two tokens by an attendant.

However, before stepping into the grand hall, the Indestructible Elder retrieved two cloaks from the attendant. He handed one to Eldrin Chen and explained, "The Treasure Exchange Grand Assembly held here allows participants to conceal their identities."

"This Heaven-Veiling Cloak was personally forged by the Chaos Celestial Emperor. Not only does it shroud all auras and prevent others from spying, but it also provides you a perfect opportunity to hide your true self."

So saying, the Indestructible Elder donned his cloak and strode into the great hall.

Seeing this, Eldrin Chen hastily put on his own cloak and followed the Indestructible Elder inside.

Upon entering the hall, Eldrin Chen discovered that within the vast chamber stood roughly three hundred figures.

The lowest cultivation base among them was at the Great Emperor Realm, and there were nearly one hundred practitioners who had reached the Sage Ascendant realm.

Among these mighty experts, slightly more than half wore concealing cloaks, while the remainder did not.

Observing this, the Indestructible Elder spoke, "The Treasure Exchange Grand Assembly for Sage Ascendant in the Blazing Central Primordial Domain is attended not only by local powers but also by many Sage Ascendant from the Primordial Chaos Desolate Sea."

"Local experts rarely conceal their identities. However, we Sage Ascendant from foreign domains, unless possessing overwhelming strength, typically participate in the Treasure Exchange Grand Assembly while hidden."

As Indestructible Elder [a title for an ancient being of immense longevity] recounted the tale, Eldrin Chen gradually came to understand the reasons behind it all.

After all, the powerful figures from the outer realms were a mixed bag—some hailed from other Chaos Domain [a primordial and turbulent region of the cosmos], while others originated from weaker Origin Domain [a foundational realm, often less developed].

The factions behind these individuals were often relatively weak, lacking the backing of a Chaos Celestial Emperor [a supreme ruler of a Chaos Domain], and thus they acted with far greater caution.

In contrast, those Sage Ascendant [a supreme realm just below the Immortal Sage] who had the support of a Chaos Celestial Emperor seemed to disdain hiding their identities beneath cloaks.

With this thought, Eldrin Chen swept his gaze across the assembly. When his eyes fell upon a crimson-robed figure, a chill flickered deep within his pupils.

"It's him!"

Eldrin Chen murmured, instantly concealing the killing intent that had surged within him.

Noticing this, Indestructible Elder also looked toward that figure. He saw a peerless presence clad in imperial robes of blazing crimson.

"Vermilion Bird Sage Ascendant [the Sage Ascendant of the Vermilion Bird, a mythical fire-associated beast], so this is your great adversary. He doesn't seem particularly formidable, does he?"

Indestructible Elder whispered, then added, "As expected, he has only recently broken through to the Sage Ascendant realm. Having consolidated his cultivation base, he has come to this Treasure Exchange Grand Assembly [a grand gathering for the exchange of rare treasures and cultivation resources] to broaden his horizons."

Eldrin Chen gave a slight nod, offering no words in reply.

Indestructible Elder also nodded and then spoke, "With your innate talent, surpassing this individual in the future will not be difficult."

"Since our paths have crossed now, simply treat his presence as if it were air."

Eldrin Chen nodded once more, his expression settling into a state of Restoration [a profound state of inner calm and equilibrium] as serene and unruffled as a still pond.

Having arrived somewhat late, the Treasure Exchange Grand Assembly [a grand gathering where powerful cultivators trade rare treasures] had already been underway for some time. The true top-tier powerhouses had already completed their exchanges, so no exceptionally precious treasures appeared in the subsequent proceedings.

Thus it continued. Even after over one hundred Sage Ascendant [cultivators who have ascended to a supreme realm just below that of a true Immortal] had gradually finished their trades, none of the Innate Supreme Treasure [a supreme-grade magical artifact born from the primordial chaos of heaven and earth] that Eldrin Chen desired made an appearance.

Seeing that only the final few Sage Ascendant remained to take the stage, a tinge of regret began to color Eldrin Chen's thoughts.

If even the Sage Ascendant could not produce an Innate Supreme Treasure for exchange, Eldrin Chen did not believe those Great Emperor [cultivators who have reached the pinnacle of the Emperor realm] would be willing to part with their own Innate Supreme Treasure.

Just as disappointment settled in Eldrin Chen's heart, the Vermilion Bird Sage Ascendant [a Sage Ascendant whose Dao title is associated with the mythical Vermilion Bird] ascended the platform.

Upon taking the stage, he swept his sleeve, manifesting several dozen items of Primordial Unity Marvel [rare and wondrous objects formed from the primordial energies of creation]. Among them was an ancient white sword that radiated with boundless light of Slaughter [a divine ability or law embodying the essence of absolute destruction and killing intent].

After manifesting these treasures, Vermilion Bird Sage Ascendant [a title for a supreme cultivator who has attained sagehood through the path of the Vermilion Bird] spoke, "These treasures of mine can be exchanged for fire-attribute treasures of the same rank."

The moment Eldrin Chen laid eyes on that ancient white sword, his heart gave a faint tremor, and a peculiar feeling washed over him.

Seeing this, the Indestructible Elder beside him spoke up, "That is the White Tiger Emperor Sword [a legendary sword imbued with the power of the White Tiger, one of the Four Symbols], the former Lifebound Treasure [a treasure bound to a cultivator's life force and soul] of 'Jianbing Great Emperor' from the Immortal Cosmos Origin Domain [the primordial realm from which the Immortal Cosmos originated]. I never imagined it would end up in his hands."

A flicker of intent stirred within Eldrin Chen. Without hesitation, he handed the Tai Heng Furnace to the Indestructible Elder and said, "Senior, please acquire that treasure for me."

"This object indeed aligns perfectly with your Dao [the fundamental principle or path of cultivation]," the elder remarked.

The Indestructible Elder gave a slight nod. He manifested the Tai Heng Furnace and then sent a voice transmission to Vermilion Bird Sage Ascendant: "Fellow Daoist, how about I exchange this item for your White Tiger Emperor Sword?"

"The Tai Heng Furnace?"

Vermilion Bird Sage Ascendant paused momentarily, then replied, "This is the supreme treasure of that Taiheng Great Emperor from the Immortal Cosmos Origin Domain."

"Rumors say it was seized by the Soul Refiner Great Emperor. I never thought it would travel such a winding path to end up in your possession, Fellow Daoist."

"However, while this treasure is indeed precious, compared to this White Tiger Emperor Sword, which excels in Slaughter [a divine ability focused on pure, overwhelming destruction], I'm afraid it still falls slightly short."

"You must understand, this White Tiger Emperor Sword of mine is hailed as the foremost Slaughter Innate Supreme Treasure within the Immortal Cosmos Origin Domain."

"Fellow Daoist, your words are mistaken."

Indestructible Elder shook his head and continued via voice transmission, "The Tai Heng Furnace excels in both offense and defense, and moreover, it is a peerless furnace for refining elixirs [spiritual pills used for cultivation]. This treasure was once proclaimed the supreme alchemical furnace of the Immortal Cosmos Origin Domain."

"Even when viewed across the entire Blazing Central Chaos Domain, this furnace ranks among the most elite for pill refinement."

"If you do not desire it, I can simply seek another to make the exchange."

So saying, Indestructible Elder made as if to abandon the transaction.

Seeing this, the Vermilion Bird Sage Ascendant hastily spoke up, "There is no need, there is no need. I agree to the trade."

The Vermilion Bird Sage Ascendant promptly produced the White Tiger Emperor Sword and completed the exchange with Indestructible Elder.

For the Vermilion Bird Sage Ascendant, trading this Innate Supreme Treasure, the White Tiger Emperor Sword, for the fire-attribute Tai Heng Furnace was an exceedingly advantageous bargain.

After all, no matter how formidable the White Tiger Emperor Sword might be, for him it remained an ancient sword whose elemental nature did not align with his own cultivation.

Not to mention, his Lifebound Innate Supreme Treasure—the Vermilion Heaven Departing Flame Sword—was already a supreme Slaughter Immortal Sword [a sword of immense power, often embodying a specific Dao or concept]. He was not in urgent need of another SlaughterInnate Supreme Treasure [a supreme treasure born from the world's natural laws, bound to a cultivator's soul].

The Tai Heng Furnace offered both offense and defense, was a fire-attribute Innate Supreme Treasure, and could also be used for alchemy [the art of refining spiritual pills and elixirs]. For him, it was the most suitable treasure.

With the transaction complete, Vermilion Bird Sage Ascendant stroked the Tai Heng Furnace with deep satisfaction, yet a flicker of coldness surfaced in Eldrin Chen's gaze.

His eyes fell upon the Tai Heng Furnace, and he shared one final, silent exchange with the treasure's artifact spirit [the sentient consciousness residing within a powerful magical item].

"Remember our agreement."

The wordless communication passed in an instant. Eldrin Chen withdrew his focus and followed Indestructible Elder out of the Grand Exchange Hall.

Only Vermilion Bird Sage Ascendant glanced inexplicably at their retreating figures. A vague sense of unease settled upon him, a feeling that he had overlooked something, though he could not immediately grasp what it was.

A moment later, Vermilion Bird Sage Ascendant dismissed the thought, deciding not to dwell on it further.

As a Dao-Wielding Sage Ascendant [a supreme cultivator who has comprehended and wields a fundamental Dao], he was powerful enough to roam the Chaos Sea [a primordial, turbulent expanse of chaotic energies] with few equals. What in this mortal realm could possibly give him cause for concern?

Eldrin Chen and Indestructible Elder departed from the Blazing Central Chaos Sea and soon arrived within the Primordial Chaos Desolate Sea [a vast, ancient sea of chaotic and desolate energies].

Before parting ways, Indestructible Elder [the ancient being known for his unyielding vitality] offered a final piece of counsel. "This old man will enter seclusion to heal my wounds. Who knows in what year we shall meet again."

"I hope that when we next meet, you will possess strength rivaling that of a Sage Ascendant [a supreme cultivator who has ascended to the threshold of sagehood]."

Eldrin Chen offered a faint smile before replying, "Go in peace, Senior. Once your injuries are fully healed, I trust our reunion will not be difficult to arrange."

Indestructible Elder gave a solemn nod. "I know you bear a great vendetta, but remember—your safety must be your foremost priority."

"Do not provoke the Vermilion Bird Sage Ascendant [the supreme sovereign of the Vermilion Bird lineage], and do not return to the Seven Domains of the Southern Abyss [the perilous and fragmented southern realms] until you possess sufficient power."

Eldrin Chen bowed deeply, his expression grave. "Thank you for the reminder, Senior. This junior will engrave your words upon his heart."

"If that is so, then let us go our separate ways here."

With a final wave of his hand, Indestructible Elder vanished into the depths of the Chaos [the primordial, formless void between realms].

Eldrin Chen lingered for a moment, watching until the elder was completely lost from sight. Only then did he turn, leading Sword Abyss Great Emperor [the supreme sword sovereign] and the others on their journey back toward the Great Desolate Ancient Realm [the primordial and vast ancient world].

The journey consumed several more Kalpa Tribulations [cosmic cycles of immense duration], but at last, the group returned to the heart of the Great Desolate Ancient Realm.

After returning to the Great Desolate Ancient Realm, Eldrin Chen found the realm remained in a state of profound tranquility, with no signs of conflict stirring. He could not help but let out a soft sigh of relief.

Liora, the Emperor Lord had been waiting for him for quite some time. She immediately led him to her secluded cultivation abode.

She gave his shoulder a gentle squeeze, her face alight with eager anticipation as she asked, "How did your journey fare? Was it successful?"

"All went smoothly,"

Eldrin Chen replied, before inquiring in turn, "By the way, during these years, has the Great Wilderness Emperor Sovereign shown any signs of spying or scheming?"

"There has been no movement,"

Liora, the Emperor Lord shook her head, then continued, "Yet, I have a persistent feeling that he is likely plotting something far more sinister."

"Do not worry. We will meet soldiers with shields and water with earth [a Chinese idiom meaning to deal with problems as they arise]. What we must focus on now is strengthening our own power."

As he spoke, Eldrin Chen retrieved several cultivation resources he had specifically selected for Liora, the Emperor Lord—items to aid her cultivation and several exquisitely beautiful immortal gowns from the Blazing Central Primordial Domain.

One had to admit, the immortal gowns from the prosperous Immortal Domain were indeed far more refined, elegant, and splendid than anything found in a wild, untamed land like the Great Desolate Ancient Realm. A look of delighted surprise blossomed on Liora, the Emperor Lord's face.

The love of beauty resides in every heart. Having received the gift, Liora, the Emperor Lord [a powerful ruler and cultivator] was overjoyed and clung to Eldrin Chen for several million years, only then concluding their joint cultivation of the Yin-Yang [a profound cultivation method harmonizing opposing cosmic forces] resonance.

Once their cultivation session ended, Eldrin Chen immediately proceeded to his Seclusion Chamber [a private chamber for focused meditation and cultivation]. There, he retrieved the Innate Supreme Treasure [a primordial treasure born from the cosmos itself], the White Tiger Emperor Sword.

The moment the White Tiger Emperor Sword was drawn, Eldrin Chen felt a deluge of overwhelming Heaven's Slaughter [a plant imbued with a fierce, annihilating aura] Qi [the vital energy that flows through all living things] assail him. A peerless sword radiance, capable of cleaving heaven and earth, erupted from the blade, threatening to annihilate the entire expanse of Chaos [the primordial, formless state before creation] into nothingness.

"A magnificent Immortal Sword [a sentient, supremely powerful sword used by high-level cultivators]," Eldrin Chen murmured, a flicker of desire in his eyes. "Worthy of its reputation as the most potent offensive Innate Supreme Treasure from the ancient Immortal Cosmos Origin Domain [the legendary primordial realm where the universe began]."

Gazing upon the White Tiger Emperor Sword, Eldrin Chen could not help but feel a surge of longing.

The White Tiger Emperor Sword possessed peerless Slaughter [a divine ability focused on absolute destruction and annihilation]. If Eldrin Chen were to refine and wield it, his offensive capabilities would increase exponentially.

Alas, this treasure was far too compatible with his True Spirit Divine Runes [a supreme cultivation art for manifesting one's true divine essence]. It was the unparalleled choice for achieving the True Spirit Divine Form [a perfected divine body representing one's ultimate spiritual manifestation], leaving Eldrin Chen with no real alternative.

Thus, as his thoughts churned, Eldrin Chen gritted his teeth and mobilized the full power of his cultivation foundation to begin refining the White Tiger Emperor Sword.

"*Hummm—*"

The instant Eldrin Chen initiated the refinement, a cataclysmic sword intent [the conceptual will and power imbued within a supreme sword] surged into his body, feeling as though it would slice his very flesh asunder.

Even the Black Tortoise Shield [a supreme defensive manifestation of the True Spirit Divine Form], this most formidable of True Spirit Divine Form [a pinnacle defensive technique], saw its protective efficacy diminished by more than half under the onslaught of that overwhelming sword intent.

The torrential sword intent continued to surge and clash violently within Eldrin Chen's body, carving wound after wound upon him despite his formidable defenses.