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Chapter 2086 : Mastering the River of Time

With his current power, he could traverse between the past and the future across roughly one hundred Kalpa Tribulation [immense cosmic cycles] within a single Eldrin [a unit of time].

Of course, Eldrin Chen would not resort to such measures unless absolutely necessary.

For such reckless temporal traversal could easily cause the River of Time and Space [the metaphysical flow governing past, present, and future] to become chaotic, leading to irreversible and unpredictable changes within this expanse of the Chaos Sea [the primordial, formless void from which all creation emerged].

Yet, even with this limitation, the Time Divine Rune [a supreme symbol of temporal mastery] possessed profound and astonishing mysteries.

Eldrin Chen discovered he could slow the flow of time within the surrounding Space-Time [the fabric of reality where space and time are interwoven], or conversely, accelerate its passage around himself.

Both temporal acceleration and deceleration would confer immense advantages in combat.

Imagine, in the heat of battle, an opponent's strikes moving with the speed of a tortoise from Eldrin Chen's perspective—how could they possibly hope to land a blow?

Alternatively, Eldrin Chen could accelerate time upon his own person. In the span of a single moment in the external world, a thousand years could pass for him, allowing him to vanish from pursuit in the blink of an eye.

"The power of the Time Divine Rune is truly profound," he murmured, a faint smile touching his lips. "Worthy indeed of being called a Half-Step Ultimate Divine Rune [a divine symbol of power nearing the absolute pinnacle]."

Eldrin Chen whispered softly to himself, a genuine smile finally gracing his features.

The legendary Space-Time Divine Runes [divine symbols that grant mastery over the fundamental forces of time and space] are woven from the intermingling of the two Great Dao [the supreme cosmic principles] of Time and Space.

This level of Ultimate Divine Rune [the pinnacle class of divine symbols] grants mastery over the power of Space-Time [the combined forces of space and time], possessing unparalleled profundity. Its capabilities for survival and versatility rank it first among the four great Ultimate Divine Rune.

Eldrin Chen has now cultivated the Time Divine Rune [a divine symbol governing the flow and manipulation of time], which counts as mastering half the power of the Space-Time Divine Runes. This can be considered a Half-Step Ultimate Divine Rune [a divine symbol that has partially achieved the pinnacle rank].

Next, he only needs to cultivate the Space Great Dao [the supreme cosmic principle governing spatial dimensions] to fuse the power of Space-Time together and achieve the legendary Space-Time Divine Runes.

"Time is supreme, Space is king."

"If Space-Time were to become one, one could become invincible under heaven."

Eldrin Chen murmured softly, a ripple of profound contemplation shimmering in his gaze.

Legend holds that either the Time Great Dao or the Space Great Dao alone can lead directly to the realm of the Boundless Sovereign [a sovereign existence of limitless power]. Should the two merge, one would step into the domain of the Primordial Great Dao [the primordial, foundational principle from which all other Daos emanate].

Faced with such a supremely lofty Great Dao, even Eldrin Chen had no choice but to devote his entire being to its pursuit.

"My next step," he resolved, "is to begin making preparations for the Space Great Dao."

Eldrin Chen murmured inwardly, then gathered his thoughts and turned his gaze towards the nearby Black Abyss Great Emperor.

Not far away, the Black Abyss Great Emperor slowly opened his eyes, a faint smile gracing his features.

Behind his head, a Chaos Ancient Bell [a primordial treasure embodying the power of Chaos] gradually condensed into form, radiating an invincible power capable of suppressing Chaos [the primordial state of undifferentiated existence].

"Ultimate Divine Form—Chaos Ancient Bell."

Eldrin Chen spoke softly, a look of joy appearing on his face as he promptly cupped his hands in salute. "Congratulations, Senior. By cultivating this Chaos Divine Form [a supreme manifestation of one's spiritual power], you have now fully stepped into the Sage Ascendant Realm [a realm of cultivation approaching the pinnacle of mortal existence]."

"It cannot compare to your own world-shaking combat prowess."

The Black Abyss Great Emperor chuckled, then continued, "However, my gains from this endeavor are indeed substantial."

By cultivating his ninth True Spirit Divine Form [the ultimate spiritual manifestation of a cultivator's power], the Black Abyss Great Emperor had completely entered the Sage Ascendant Realm. His foundation and latent potential had undergone a tremendous enhancement.

If his former strength could be considered merely top-tier among Primordial Limitless Sage Ascendants [those at the peak of the Sage Ascendant Realm], his current power now likely reached fifty percent of a Chaos Celestial Emperor's [a supreme ruler born from Chaos].

While such strength had not yet reached the domain where one could openly challenge a Celestial Emperor [a supreme sovereign of the heavens], it was nonetheless formidable. At the very least, he could now marginally intervene in conflicts at the Celestial Emperor level.

Moreover, this was not the limit. Once Black Abyss Great Emperor merged his nine divine forms into one, fully cultivating the Unique True Form [a supreme state of being where one's physical form becomes the singular, perfect manifestation of their cultivation path], his power would likely surge dramatically once more.

By that time, the strength of Black Abyss Great Emperor should be able to rival that of a newly ascended Chaos Divine Emperor like Grand Turbidity Divine Emperor [a title for a newly ascended Divine Emperor whose power embodies the concept of primordial murkiness].

Thinking of this, Black Abyss Great Emperor could not help but say with a smile, "Our power has increased considerably this time. Perhaps we can try venturing into that Primordial Chaos Fragment Realm [a dangerous, unstable realm formed from shards of the primordial chaos, rich in ancient opportunities and perils]."

Upon hearing this, both Eldrin Chen and Indestructible Elder felt a stirring of anticipation in their hearts.

The reason they had selected these three forbidden lands was because they shared a common trait: only those below the Chaos Celestial Emperor realm were qualified to enter and explore them.

Precisely for this reason, Eldrin Chen had not given the Chaos Primordial Qi [the most fundamental and potent energy of the primordial chaos] to Indestructible Elder.

For once Indestructible Elder broke through to Chaos Celestial Emperor, he would no longer be able to explore the remaining two Opportunity [a chance encounter or resource that can greatly advance one's cultivation].

At this moment, the three exchanged a glance. Eldrin Chen then spoke decisively, "Since that is the case, there is no time to waste. Let us depart immediately."

As his words fell, Eldrin Chen was the first to step out of the Profound Heaven Ruins, striding forth into the vast and boundless Depths of Chaos [the profound and perilous inner regions of the primordial chaos].

Indestructible Elder and Black Abyss Great Emperor followed closely behind, shattering the Vast Chaotic Void [the endless, formless expanse of the primordial chaos] as they advanced.

Yet, after an unknowable span of time, Eldrin Chen's steps suddenly faltered, coming to a halt within a hazy expanse of Chaos [the primordial, undifferentiated state before creation].

"What is it?"

Beside him, Black Abyss Great Emperor, seeing this, could not help but reveal a look of heightened vigilance.

Eldrin Chen, however, wore an expression of cold disdain as he gazed into the Void [the profound emptiness] and called out, "Since you have come, why skulk in the shadows?"

"You found me after all."

At that moment, a voice, cold and detached, echoed from within the Chaos.

The Chaos was rent asunder, and a war chariot drawn by nine Primordial Era True Dragon [mighty draconic beings of ancient lineage] materialized before the group.

Upon the chariot stood a man of imposing stature, a battle spear in hand, his countenance etched with icy indifference.

"Blazing Zenith Ember."

Indestructible Elder spoke, a grave solemnity gathering in the depths of his brow.

The corner of Blazing Zenith Ember's mouth lifted in a smirk as he spoke, "I hear the three of you passed the second trial. It seems your aptitudes are not lacking."

"I'll not waste words. Hand over the items, and I may spare your lives."

"On what grounds?"

Indestructible Elder was incensed, a glint of icy coldness flashing in his eyes.

Eldrin Chen and Black Abyss Great Emperor exchanged a glance beside him, a well-concealed killing intent simmering within their gazes.

"On what grounds?" Blazing Zenith Ember chuckled, his expression suddenly turning frigid. "On the grounds of superior strength, of course."

As his words fell, Blazing Zenith Ember shot into the air in an instant, riding upon a Crimson Flame Divine Spear that tore through the void, aiming directly for Indestructible Elder.

Facing the supremely arrogant Blazing Zenith Ember, Indestructible Elder was the first to charge forth. He soared skyward, wielding a battle spear imbued with the power of Imperishable [an ability representing unyielding durability and eternal essence], and clashed with him in a battle of ultimate extremes, unleashing the Eruption [a divine ability of sudden, violent, and overwhelming power].

Yet, in the span of a single exchange, Indestructible Elder was sent flying backward. Although he suffered no grievous wounds, it seemed he had come off decidedly the worse.

"Something is amiss! That in his hand is a Chaos Spiritual Treasure [a supreme treasure born from and embodying the power of primordial chaos]—the Primordial Chaos Scorching Heaven Spear!"

Eldrin Chen immediately spoke out in warning, then took control of the Primordial Chaos Heaven Halberd and surged forward to meet the attack, blocking the full-force strike from Blazing Zenith Ember.

At this moment, both Black Abyss Great Emperor and Indestructible Elder understood the formidable power of Blazing Zenith Ember.

This Blazing Zenith Ember was originally skilled in the Eruption [a divine ability that allows for a brief, explosive surge of power], pushing the fleeting combat prowess of Eruption to its absolute limit, to a degree even comparable to a Chaos Celestial Emperor.

Such a figure, now also wielding a Chaos Spiritual Treasure [a supreme treasure born from primordial chaos], was clearly a foe that Indestructible Elder, who was not adept in the Slaughter [a divine ability focused on pure offensive destruction], would find difficult to contend with.

Of course, Indestructible Elder was more proficient in defense; even if he could not prevail, his own safety was not in question.

"Abyssal Dao Progenitor, how dare you stand in my way?"

Seeing Eldrin Chen charge forth, Blazing Zenith Ember nearly flew into a frenzy on the spot. He instantly unleashed techniques akin to Annihilation [a divine ability of utter obliteration], sweeping across the Eight Desolations in an attempt to completely annihilate Eldrin Chen.

Yet Eldrin Chen was no easy opponent either. His physical combat prowess surpassed that of Blazing Zenith Ember by a notch, and the Primordial Chaos Heaven Halberd was not a whit inferior to the Primordial Chaos Scorching Heaven Spear.

In this fierce battle, Eldrin Chen did not unleash his full strength, yet after exchanging three thousand blows in succession, he remained unyielding and held his ground.

"How is this possible?"

Witnessing Eldrin Chen unleash such extreme combat prowess, even Blazing Zenith Ember was somewhat shocked.

But seeing him descend into near-total frenzy, erupting with Annihilation-like ultimate force, the Primordial Chaos Scorching Heaven Spear in his hand also blazed with sky-scorching flames.

Such terrifying flames were potent enough to sear and even wound a Chaos Celestial Emperor, yet they remained insufficient to trouble Eldrin Chen.

However, Eldrin Chen was also unwilling to reveal too much of his strength. He immediately manifested the Wu Earth Sovereign Emperor Bell for protection, then turned his gaze towards Black Abyss Great Emperor and Indestructible Elder.

In that instant, the two powerhouses moved with perfect tacit understanding, striking in unison to flank Blazing Zenith Ember alongside Eldrin Chen.

Facing three opponents alone, Blazing Zenith Ember immediately found himself hard-pressed, forced into a continuous, stumbling retreat under the assault.

"Damnation! Your progress is so immense... it seems you truly have obtained a great Opportunity [a rare and significant chance for advancement or gain]."

Realizing he could not withstand the combined might of the trio, Blazing Zenith Ember roared in fury and alarm. He turned his gaze deep into the Void [the formless, boundless space between realms] and cried out, "Brother Xuan Desolate Tribe! Aid me swiftly in suppressing them!"

"BOOM!"

In that moment, the Void was violently torn asunder. A terrifying Chaos Colossal Hand shattered the emptiness as it descended, its intent to utterly crush and subdue all three of them.

Eldrin Chen looked up and saw a majestic figure shattering through the Void [the empty space between dimensions] within the Depths of Chaos [the primordial, formless expanse from which all creation emerged]. It was none other than a peerless and invincible Chaos Celestial Emperor [a supreme ruler born from the primordial chaos, wielding power over creation and destruction].

"It's the Profound Desolation Celestial Emperor! We must flee!"

The Indestructible Elder spoke without hesitation. He summoned his Imperishable [a divine technique that grants near-absolute durability] battle spear to meet the attack head-on. After parrying the blow, he sought to pull his companions away to make their escape.

Yet, the Profound Desolation Celestial Emperor remained impassive, his expression cold as he declared, "Surrender the supreme treasure. Then you may leave."

As his words fell, he flicked his sleeve, unleashing a Void [the empty space between dimensions] treasure pot. In an instant, the very space around them was sealed and locked.

"The Primordial Chaos Ethereal Void Pot! That is a Chaos Spiritual Treasure [a supreme artifact forged from and imbued with the power of primordial chaos] attuned to the spatial element!"

The Indestructible Elder's expression shifted slightly, and his gaze immediately turned toward Eldrin Chen.

Eldrin Chen did not hesitate for a moment. He directly summoned the Chaos Void-Refining Vial. The vial's power clashed with that of the Primordial Chaos Ethereal Void Pot, creating an opening. Seizing the chance, he gathered his three companions and tore through the Void [the empty space between dimensions], vanishing into the distance.

"That is the Life-Bound Supreme Treasure [a unique, soul-bound artifact of ultimate power, grown and refined alongside its master's cultivation] of the Immortal Cosmos Dao Progenitor."

Watching the trio depart, the Profound Desolation Celestial Emperor was momentarily taken aback. A realization dawned upon him. "So that explains it," he murmured. "No wonder Eldrin, the Abyssal Daoist [Eldrin's Daoist title, signifying his connection to the profound and unfathomable] rose with such meteoric speed. He is the successor of the Immortal Cosmos Dao Progenitor."

At this moment, Profound Desolation Celestial Emperor [a supreme ruler of the Chaos] nodded slightly. Many of his speculations regarding Eldrin Chen instantly became clear.

Over these years, as Eldrin Chen gradually rose to prominence, he had already entered the gaze of the powers within the Blazing Central Primordial Domain [a central, primordial region of the Chaos].

Many believed that Eldrin Chen, with his peerless talent, had the potential to become a figure akin to a second Foreign Realm Demon Emperor [a powerful demonic emperor from beyond this realm].

Thus, the various Chaos Celestial Emperor [supreme rulers of the Chaos] of the Blazing Central Chaos Domain had paid considerable attention to Eldrin Chen as well.

Were it not for the fact that the Blazing Zenith Lineage [a powerful and ancient lineage] had too many enemies, and that Eldrin Chen was backed by several Chaos Celestial Emperor, that lineage would likely have already moved against him.

Now, with the emergence of the Chaos Void-Refining Vial [a legendary artifact capable of refining the void of Chaos], the Blazing Zenith Lineage had begun to form some conjectures about Eldrin Chen's origins.

In the view of the Profound Desolation Celestial Emperor, Eldrin Chen was most likely a direct descendant of the Immortal Cosmos Dao Progenitor [the progenitor of the Immortal Cosmos Dao lineage], perhaps even a contingency plan left by the Immortal Cosmos Origin Domain [the primordial homeland of that lineage].

Only such an origin could explain why Eldrin Chen had risen with such astonishing speed.

"Clan Brother, are we truly just letting them depart like this?"

At the same time, Blazing Zenith Ember [a scion of the Blazing Zenith Lineage] spoke, his voice tinged with unwillingness.

Profound Desolation Celestial Emperor shook his head, his expression placid as he spoke, "That Immortal Cosmos Dao Progenitor cultivated to the Soul Path Celestial Emperor [a supreme realm where one's soul and cultivation path merge into a celestial-level existence], his strength was not inferior to a Foreign Realm Demon Emperor."

"Had he not met calamity because of the Chaos Cauldron [a legendary cauldron forged from primordial chaos], he would very likely have already broken through to the Dao-Union Supreme [the supreme realm of merging completely with the fundamental Dao]. The legacy left behind by such a figure is surely extraordinary."

"However, with the Chaos Void-Refining Vial [a vial capable of refining the essence of the chaotic void] in his possession, unless the Progenitor himself takes action, it will be difficult for either of us to capture him."

"Yet, our Blazing Zenith Lineage has many enemies. Those half-step Dao Merging [cultivators on the verge of fully merging their being with the Dao] within the Blazing Zenith Hundred Domains will not tolerate us making a move."

Speaking thus, the Profound Desolation Celestial Emperor continued, "Nevertheless, we can spread this news. Though the remaining legacy of the Immortal Cosmos [a profound cultivation concept representing the immortal universe] lineage is not abundant, it is still enough to stir the hearts of many."

"I believe some within the Seven Domains of the Southern Abyss would be more than willing to act against this man on our behalf."

"Marvelous."

Blazing Zenith Ember praised, then said, "This way, even if we cannot seize the treasure ourselves, we can continue to stir chaos within the Seven Domains of the Southern Abyss."

"This stratagem of driving the tiger to swallow the wolf may well lead them to mutual destruction."

Just as the Profound Desolation Celestial Emperor harbored profound apprehension, the trio on the other side had already escaped from danger.

The Indestructible Elder immediately turned his gaze towards Eldrin Chen and spoke, "Exposing the Chaos Void-Refining Vial this time will likely bring you trouble."

"It is of no consequence."

Eldrin Chen shook his head, his expression remaining as calm and unperturbed as ever.

After the destruction of the Immortal Cosmos Origin Domain in ancient times, most of its legacy was divided among the Thirteen Domains of the Northern and Southern Celestial Abyss.

The Candle Dragon, the Primordial Phoenix, and even the various Chaos Demon Sovereign from the Foreign Realm mostly achieved their Ascension to become Chaos Celestial Emperor because of this.

Even if the Immortal Cosmos Dao Progenitor left behind treasures, the remaining ones are few, thus it is unlikely to stir the hearts of powerhouses at the Half-Step Dao Union Realm.

Therefore, even with the Chaos Void-Refining Vial furnace exposed, the danger Eldrin Chen faces is not an absolute dead end. With his current strength, there is even a possibility he can protect the Chaos Void-Refining Vial.

After all, not only is his personal power formidable, but he also has several allies at the level of Chaos Celestial Emperor.

Conversely, using this opportunity to reveal the Chaos Void-Refining Vial furnace also provides a perfect explanation for Eldrin Chen's strength and cultivation speed.

For a person without a heaven-defying background to cultivate to Eldrin Chen's level of power and even pass the trials of the Profound Heaven Ruins is enough to make even a Dao-Union Supreme wary.

However, if one were the heir of a top-tier Half-Step Dao Merging [a cultivator who has begun merging their personal path with the fundamental Dao] and had obtained the vast resources hoarded by such a figure, then cultivating to such a realm and level of power would seem entirely reasonable.

Even if it seemed somewhat exaggerated, it could be perfectly explained away.

This, in turn, would actually reduce much of the external covetous attention on Eldrin Chen, making him considerably safer in an unseen manner.

Moreover, if he did not bring out the Chaos Void-Refining Vial [a supreme treasure capable of refining the primordial chaos], Eldrin Chen would have to display combat power at the level of a Chaos Celestial Emperor [a supreme ruler who commands the power of primordial chaos] to fight his way out of the battlefield.

At that point, it would inevitably alert Blazing Zenith Supreme, thereby inviting even greater trouble for Eldrin Chen.

After all, he was merely a practitioner of Sainthood through the Flesh [a path focusing on achieving divine power through physical cultivation], who had not yet broken through to the Chaos Celestial Emperor realm but was already comparable to one. If he were to fully step into that realm, what then?

"I've attracted some trouble, but with my strength and connections, I should barely be able to manage it for now."

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

Having gathered his thoughts, Eldrin Chen looked towards the Depths of Chaos [the innermost, most primordial regions of the formless chaos] and declared, "The immediate priority remains that strength is paramount above all."

"Let us first venture into the Primordial Chaos Fragment Realm [a shattered pocket dimension formed from solidified fragments of primordial chaos] and see if we can find an Opportunity [a rare chance or catalyst for a significant breakthrough] to advance further."

Upon hearing this, both Indestructible Elder [the ancient being known for his unyielding nature] and Black Abyss Great Emperor [the sovereign ruler of the profound darkness] nodded in acknowledgment. They then followed him towards the Primordial Chaos Fragment Realm [the shattered remnants of a primordial chaotic world].

Their journey spanned dozens of Kalpa Tribulation [immense cosmic cycles of creation and destruction]. By the time they arrived, even Eldrin Chen felt a trace of weariness. They finally stood before the outer boundary of the Primordial Chaos Fragment Realm.

"This is the place," he stated.

Gazing upon the Primordial Chaos Fragment Realm before him, Eldrin Chen murmured softly, a ripple of complex emotion stirring within the depths of his eyes.

The so-called Primordial Chaos Fragment Realm is what remains of a Primordial Chaos Secret Realm [a hidden realm born from the primordial chaos before the universe's formation]. A complete Primordial Chaos Secret Realm possesses an extraordinarily high cosmic rank, having been conceived and nurtured even before the Primordial Chaos Opening [the initial separation of chaos that birthed the cosmos].

It is woven from Primordial Essence [the fundamental, undifferentiated substance of creation], containing a power of truly world-shaking magnitude.

If one were to discover a complete Primordial Chaos Secret Realm, even cultivators at the Dao-Union Supreme [the supreme realm of unity with the Dao] or the Boundless Sovereign [the sovereign realm of limitless power] would be stirred by profound desire.

For within it, there is a high likelihood of finding remnants of Primordial Chaos Qi [the quintessential energy of primordial chaos]. That very Primordial Chaos Qi is the most crucial resource for anyone seeking to ascend to the Third Chaos Realm [the third and profound realm of chaotic cultivation].

The fragmented realm before them was precisely such a damaged Primordial Chaos Secret Realm. In the distant, immeasurable past, it had been the site of a cataclysmic battle.

Two Boundless Sovereign had clashed fiercely over the Opportunity [a rare chance for advancement or gain] that had Eruption [violently manifested] within this realm. Their ultimate conflict had shattered the Primordial Chaos Secret Realm into its current state of utter ruin.

Afterwards, the resources within the Primordial Chaos Secret Realm were completely plundered, leaving only a single, shattered Primordial Chaos Fragment Realm in existence.

Though this Primordial Chaos Fragment Realm is fractured and broken, it still retains a sliver of the supreme Primordial Chaos Dao essence [the fundamental, undifferentiated state of existence before creation]. Every few tens of thousands of years, it gives birth to exceedingly rare Chaos Rare Treasures and even Chaos Primordial Qi [the purest, foundational energy of chaos].

However, the Primordial Chaos Fragment Realm is an extremely perilous place, containing the lingering, forbidden traces of Slaughter [a divine power of absolute annihilation] left behind by two Boundless Sovereigns.

This Slaughter power is terrifyingly potent. Once stimulated, it will erupt utterly, and even a Chaos Celestial Emperor could potentially perish as a result.

It is precisely for this reason that not even Chaos Celestial Emperors or even Dao-Union Supremes dare to venture recklessly into this Primordial Chaos Fragment Realm.

Conversely, those who have not cultivated a Chaos Great Dao [a supreme path aligned with the fundamental principles of chaos], due to their lower inherent rank and realm, do not provoke a reaction from these remnants of the Chaos Sovereign.

"Within the Primordial Chaos Fragment Realm, only those at the Sage Ascendant Realm can be accommodated at most."

Gazing at the Primordial Chaos Fragment Realm before them, Indestructible Elder spoke slowly, "We can enter without issue, but the dangers within the remnant realm are unpredictable. You must remember to be exceedingly cautious."

Upon hearing this, both of them nodded in acknowledgment.

Seeing this, Indestructible Elder spoke again, "This old man's physical defenses are relatively strong. I shall take the lead, then."

As the words fell, Indestructible Elder was the first to step within, with Eldrin Chen and Black Abyss Great Emperor following closely behind him.

The moment he entered the Primordial Chaos Fragment Realm, Eldrin Chen immediately felt a wave of murderous aura assail him.

He saw that within the vast and desolate Primordial Chaos Fragment Realm, everything was shrouded in a dim, violet-crimson radiance, making it appear exceptionally eerie and dreadful.

Seeing this, Indestructible Elder recalled the origins of this Primordial Chaos Fragment Realm and spoke, "Legend holds that within this Primordial Chaos Fragment Realm, an existence that had half a foot already within the Boundless Realm was once nurtured."

"Originally, it should have been considered a Destiny's Chaos Sovereign [a being destined to become a sovereign of primordial chaos]. Yet, it was discovered while still in its gestation, and before it could even emerge into the world, it attracted a terrifying Tribulation [a cataclysmic heavenly trial or calamity]."

"After that Quasi-Chaos Sovereign perished, it was utterly annihilated by two Boundless Sovereign [sovereigns who have transcended all limits]. Its Primordial Spirit [the spiritual core of a cultivator] was blasted into thousands upon thousands of fragments."