Chapter 2090 : The First Divine Emperor's Regret

Primordial Beginning Divine Emperor let out a faint sigh, then said with a bitter smile, "What happened in those days is done. It is impossible for us to truly be of one heart and mind now."

As he spoke, a look of bitter regret surfaced on the face of Primordial Beginning Divine Emperor.

To be fair, as the first Primordial Divine Emperor of the Primordial Immortal Domain, he had possessed the standing to alter the course of events in the original Primordial Beginning Origin Domain.

Back in the early days of the Primordial Beginning Origin Domain, he was the first to break through to the Chaos Celestial Emperor realm.

If he had not been the first to seize Chaos Primordial Qi [the primordial essence of Chaos] and had instead established a rule forbidding such seizures, the present-day Three Poles Origin Domain might very well have achieved true unity.

In that case, not only would the strength of the Origin Domain have increased significantly, but during the war against the Foreign Realm in the Primordial Era, they would not have been beaten to the brink of utter collapse.

Furthermore, a united Origin Domain would never have allowed a mere half-step Dao Merging cultivator like Bedrock Extreme Celestial Emperor to breach its defenses.

Alas, in the past, Primordial Beginning Divine Emperor made a single, fateful misstep. Fearing the talent and potential of the Primordial Demonic Ape, he moved to seize its portion of Chaos Primordial Qi [the primordial essence of Chaos].

From that moment on, it was as if Pandora's box had been opened.

With the exception of the three Divine Emperors closely aligned with him—Grand Yin, Grand Yang, and Purple Tenuity—the Chaos Primordial Qi [the primordial essence of Chaos] destined for all other Heaven-Ordained Divine Emperors was plundered.

"The seeds sown in the past bear the fruit of today."

"The predicament we now face stems from this old one's actions."

Primordial Beginning Divine Emperor spoke slowly, a bitter smile appearing on his face as he said.

Upon hearing this, all those present fell into a contemplative silence.

Neither Grand Turbid Divine Emperor nor Grand Abyss Daoist and the others offered any comment.

For, to be fair, if they had stood in Primordial Beginning Divine Emperor's place, they might not have been able to resist the temptation to seize the Chaos Primordial Qi [the primordial essence of chaos, a supreme treasure for cultivation].

Even Eldrin Chen, had not the resources for his cultivation over the years likewise been wrested from the hands of formidable foes?

With this thought, Eldrin Chen steered the conversation away, a slight frown creasing his brow. "Yet this time, our complete break with the Demon Race was thwarted at the last moment by the Blazing Zenith Lineage."

"I fear that when the great war erupts, the Three Great Celestial Emperors of the Demon Race will turn their coats once more, stabbing us in the back."

"Alas."

Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor [the progenitor of the Primordial Beginning lineage] let out a soft sigh before speaking. "I understand this as well, yet in the end, our strength remains insufficient."

Upon hearing this, the assembled group fell into a contemplative silence.

Sage-King of the Grand Abyss sighed deeply and then spoke. "As things stand now, it seems we can only proceed one step at a time."

Listening to this, Eldrin Chen could not help but reveal a look of helplessness.

Even though he clearly understood that allying with Solar Celestial Emperor [the supreme ruler embodying the essence of the sun] would inevitably invite immense trouble, he currently had no other recourse.

After all, the foundations of the Human Race Immortal Court [the celestial governing body of humanity] lay within the Three Poles Origin Domain [the primordial realm formed from the convergence of three cosmic poles]. The Divine Race [the race of gods] and the Hundred Immortal Spirit Races [the collective of one hundred immortal spirit races] also had their roots here; abandoning the Three Poles Origin Domain was simply not an option.

Although Eldrin Chen held the Great Desolate Ancient Realm [an ancient, desolate world] as a contingency, its cosmic rank was insufficient—it could not even be considered a minor Origin Domain [a foundational realm of creation]. It was utterly incapable of sustaining the cultivation needs of a Chaos Celestial Emperor [a supreme emperor born from primordial chaos].

Eldrin Chen could not relocate everyone to the Great Desolate Ancient Realm. Now, as the Immortal Court Sovereign [the sovereign ruler of the Immortal Court], it was also impossible for him to abandon the Human Race Immortal Court and depart.

Thus, he too could only proceed step by step. Unless the situation deteriorated to a point beyond all hope of recovery, he could not forsake the Three Poles Origin Domain.

"Alas."

In the end, Eldrin Chen could only heave a sigh, finally grasping the true meaning behind Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor's words.

Ultimately, it was a matter of insufficient strength. Had they possessed enough power, with a Half-Step Dao Merging or even a Dao-Union Supreme standing guard, how could they have tolerated such insolence from the Blazing Zenith Lineage?

"We must enhance our strength with utmost urgency."

This thought flickered through Eldrin Chen's mind, igniting a more desperate yearning for greater power.

Seeing this, Primordial Beginning Divine Emperor also suppressed his own contemplations and spoke instead: "At this critical juncture, dwelling on other possibilities is meaningless."

"For us, the immediate priority remains preparing to defend against the Northern Abyss Foreign Domain, while simultaneously strengthening our vigilance against the Demon Race and individuals like Blazing Zenith Ember."

"In my view, our next course of action should be..."

Thereafter, Primordial Beginning Divine Emperor convened with the other Celestial Emperors to deliberate on strategies for countering the Demon Race and Blazing Zenith Ember's faction.

Eldrin Chen listened for a while but soon lost interest in the discussion.

He understood that all else was ephemeral; the true imperative was to elevate his own power.

After the meeting concluded, Eldrin Chen bid farewell to the assembly and personally escorted Indestructible Celestial Emperor out of the Three Poles Origin Domain.

Before parting, Indestructible Celestial Emperor looked at Eldrin Chen, patted his shoulder, and said, "What's done is done. There's no need for you to dwell on it overmuch."

"If things truly reach an irredeemable point, you may come to the Indestructible Primordial Domain and the Great Desolate Ancient Realm."

"Although this old man's methods are not the most formidable, I should still be capable of ensuring your safety."

A warmth spread through Eldrin Chen's heart. He couldn't help but smile as he replied, "Then I offer my sincere thanks, Senior. If that day truly comes, I fear I'll have to bring my entire household seeking shelter."

"Hahaha!"

Indestructible Celestial Emperor laughed heartily, taking Eldrin Chen's hand. "Focus on your cultivation. When the Celestial Furnace Grotto-Heaven opens, this old man will personally see you off to that ancient site."

"My gratitude, then."

Eldrin Chen clasped his hands in a respectful salute, a rare, genuine smile finally gracing his features.

Having seen off Indestructible Celestial Emperor, Eldrin Chen returned to the depths of the Primordial Immortal Domain.

Upon returning to the Primordial Immortal Domain [the legendary realm of the most ancient and powerful immortals], Eldrin Chen received an invitation from the Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor [the Progenitor of the Primordial Beginning, a supreme existence] without delay.

He did not hesitate, journeying directly to the Primordial Ancestral Court [the supreme gathering place and seat of power for the primordial ancestors]. Within a secluded courtyard, he found the Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor and the Sage-King of the Grand Abyss awaiting him.

The two supreme Dao Ancestor Immortal Sage [beings who have ascended to the pinnacle of the Dao, merging the paths of Ancestor and Sage] sat beneath an ancient tree. Upon seeing Eldrin Chen, the Sage-King of the Grand Abyss smiled and beckoned, "Come. We have been waiting for you."

Eldrin Chen approached and offered a deep, respectful bow. "This Abyssal [referring to himself by his title, 'The Abyssal'] pays his respects to both Seniors."

"There is no need for such formality."

The Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor promptly helped Eldrin Chen to his feet, then studied him intently for a long moment.

After a while, a glimmer of confirmation flashed in his profound eyes. "I see your physical foundation is truly extraordinary," he finally spoke. "It seems the path to Sainthood through the Flesh [the ultimate ascension where one's physical body is refined to a sacred, indestructible state] is not far off for you."

"You flatter me. The road ahead remains long,"

Eldrin Chen replied, his tone humble and measured.

The Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor gave a slight nod. Then, his voice took on a thoughtful tone as he revealed, "During the Primordial Era [the mythic first age of creation], I once encountered someone remarkably similar to you."

"Extremely similar to me?"

Eldrin Chen was momentarily stunned, unable to suppress his astonishment as he asked.

Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor gave a slight nod. After a long moment of contemplation, he finally spoke: "In the earliest years of the Primordial Era, I once journeyed to the Immortal Cosmos Origin Domain in my pursuit of the Dao [the fundamental principle or path in Chinese philosophy and cultivation]."

"At that time, a venerable senior held a grand lecture, expounding the Dao for the Nine Great Immortal Sages of that domain. Thus, I was fortunate enough to attend as a listener."

At this point, Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor's voice paused briefly. He looked at Eldrin Chen and said, "That senior bore an uncanny resemblance to you."

"Resembles me?"

Eldrin Chen's heart jolted violently, a look of profound bewilderment flashing across his face.

After a long silence, Eldrin Chen could not help but inquire, "Does the Senior believe I might be the reincarnated form of that venerable one?"

"Whether you are or are not, I cannot say for certain."

Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor spoke slowly, his tone measured. Finally, he added, "The aura of your Soul [the spiritual essence of a being] is remarkably similar to his, yet it also seems to possess profound differences."

"But I believe you are connected to him in some way. Perhaps one day, when the truth is revealed, you will understand the cause and effect."

Hearing this, Eldrin Chen fell into a deep silence, momentarily at a loss for words.

After a long period of contemplation, he suddenly spoke up and asked, "Senior, have you ever met Violet Immortal Lord?"

"Violet?" Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor's gaze flickered subtly, then he nodded. "Yes, I have."

Seeing this, Eldrin Chen couldn't help but press further, "Then, in your esteemed opinion, am I connected to him?"

"It cannot be spoken, it cannot be spoken."

Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor shook his head repeatedly, adopting an air of profound mystery. "The origins of 'Violet,' I have only glimpsed the tip of the iceberg, with but a faint thread of speculation."

"If my speculation holds true, then Violet's origins are truly wondrous and ineffable."

"If I were to tell you, it might cause unpredictable ripples in the past Space-Time [the fabric of reality encompassing space and time]. Therefore, this secret is one you must uncover for yourself."

Upon hearing this, Eldrin Chen could not help but show a look of astonishment.

What kind of secret, if revealed to him now, could exert an ineffable influence upon the past?

Could it be that his present self could still affect the past Space-Time [the flow and fabric of time and space]?

One must consider that during the era in which Violet [a character or entity referred to as 'Zi'] existed, he had not yet been born. How then could he possibly influence the past Space-Time?

If he could influence a past that had already transpired, would that not throw everything into utter chaos?

However, since Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor [the Progenitor of the Primordial Beginning Dao] had already declined to answer, no matter how burning his curiosity, Eldrin Chen knew it was improper to press further.

With this thought, Eldrin Chen gathered his wandering thoughts and inquired, "May I ask, Venerable Senior, where have you journeyed during these years of your absence from the Blazing Zenith Hundred Domains?"

Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor smiled, stroking his long beard as he replied, "This old one traversed over ten billion Desolate Journey [vast, untamed cosmic distances], venturing to the distant Seven Domains Alliance."

"The Seven Domains Alliance?"

Eldrin Chen was momentarily taken aback, a flicker of astonishment crossing his features. He could not help but ask, "The legendary Seven Domains Alliance, said to be led by seven Half-Step Boundless Realm [cultivators on the very threshold of the Boundless Realm] powerhouses?"

The Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor gave a slight nod. "The Seven Domains Alliance can contend with a Boundless Sovereign [a supreme being who has mastered the Boundless Realm]. Their true strength is far from what appears on the surface."

"That Chaos Domain is composed of over a thousand Origin Domain. It is not only incomparably prosperous, but its environment is also far more accommodating."

"More accommodating?"

Eldrin Chen's gaze flickered, a trace of doubt surfacing in his eyes.

Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor nodded and explained, "Within the Seven Domains Alliance, not only is there no obstruction when attempting a breakthrough to the Soul Path Celestial Emperor realm, but one can also purchase many rare and precious resources there."

"This old man's own recent breakthrough was made possible by acquiring many such rare resources from that place."

Speaking to this point, Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor continued with a tone of envy, "The path of Soul Dao cultivation is more refined there. There are even unique treasures, utterly unparalleled elsewhere, that can increase one's chances of successfully advancing to Soul Path Celestial Emperor."

"The only drawback is the exorbitant cost."

Hearing this, Eldrin Chen and Sage-King of the Grand Abyss could not help but exchange a bitter smile.

Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor was protected by thirty-six strands of Chaos Merit Golden Light—a man of such fortune that he could stumble upon Chaos Primordial Qi even while wandering the Chaos.

For such a figure to deem resources "too expensive" spoke volumes about the staggering value of those truly unique treasures.

Mentioning the Seven Domains Alliance [a vast and powerful coalition of seven major cultivation domains], even Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor [the revered progenitor of the Primordial Beginning lineage] could not help but reveal a faint smile. He then spoke, "That Seven Domains Alliance is boundless and vast, its cultivation environment far surpassing this place."

"Who knows when our Blazing Zenith Hundred Domains [the collective name for the hundred domains under the rule of the Blazing Zenith lineage] will develop to such a level."

Sage-King of the Grand Abyss could not help but shake his head, speaking with a bitter smile, "We would need to produce a Boundless Sovereign [a supreme cultivator who has transcended all limits and achieved boundless power] for that to happen."

"A Boundless Sovereign."

Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor also wore a wry smile. What manner of being was a Boundless Sovereign?

Since the Primordial Chaos Opening [the legendary event marking the beginning of creation from primordial chaos], newly ascended Chaos Celestial Emperors [supreme rulers who have mastered the power of primordial chaos] had been beyond counting. Yet, aside from that first generation, it was nearly impossible for later cultivators to reach that realm.

Even though Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor prided himself on possessing talent rare throughout the ages, he dared only claim he had hope of reaching the Dao-Union Supreme [the supreme realm of perfect union with the Dao]. As for the Chaos Sovereign [the sovereign ruler of chaos itself], he dared not even contemplate it.

Having spoken thus, he lost the inclination for further casual conversation.

Seeing this, Eldrin Chen pondered briefly before speaking. "I intend to seek an alliance with the lineage of the Grand Pot Primordial Domain [a primordial domain named for the legendary Grand Pot artifact]. Senior, do you believe this course of action is feasible?"

As he spoke, Eldrin Chen slowly explained his and Black Abyss Sage Ascendant's thoughts to Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor.

After listening to his thoughts, Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor gave a slight nod. "The Grand Pot Lineage has always remained neutral. You possess a Primordial Chaos Spiritual Treasure Embryo [an unformed treasure of immense potential born from primordial chaos], which presents a rare opportunity to win them over."

"If we can draw them to our side, we will gain several more powerful allies."

Sage-King of the Grand Abyss also nodded, a smile gracing his features as he spoke. "The Spiritual Treasure Dao-Attainment Method [a profound cultivation art focused on merging one's path with a spiritual treasure] of the Grand Pot Dao Progenitor is of limited use to fully-formed Chaos Spiritual Treasure."

"Conversely, an unformed Primordial Chaos Spiritual Treasure Embryo is the ideal vessel for cultivating the Spiritual Treasure Dao-Attainment Method."

"The Grand Pot Dao Progenitor has always placed immense value on such Primordial Chaos Spiritual Treasure Embryo, nurturing them as if they were his own kin."

"If you were to entrust your Primordial Chaos Spiritual Treasure Embryo to him, you would likely not only receive a treasure of inestimable worth in return but also earn a significant favor from him."

Hearing this, Eldrin Chen felt a wave of reassurance. "In that case," he declared, "I shall personally journey to the Grand Pot Primordial Domain."

"Good," Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor affirmed with a nod. Yet, before parting, he added a final counsel: "Keep this journey as secret as possible. Do not let the three from the Demon Race or the Blazing Zenith Lineage learn of it."

"I understand."

Eldrin Chen nodded once more, his expression one of deep contemplation.

He understood the meaning behind the words of Primordial Beginning Dao Ancestor [a title for a supreme progenitor of a fundamental cosmic principle] — to conceal this connection, for it might yield an unexpectedly potent effect at a critical juncture.

With this thought in mind, Eldrin Chen took his leave from the two Dao Ancestor Immortal Sage [a supreme realm of cultivation, representing the pinnacle of existence] and then returned to the Immortal Court [the celestial governing body of the immortal realm].

After returned to the Immortal Court, Eldrin Chen immediately announced his seclusion for cultivation.

Thereafter, utilizing the Nameless Space [a unique, isolated dimension] within the Abyssal Pearl [a legendary treasure containing a pocket dimension], he journeyed into the Vast Chaotic Void [the primordial, formless expanse between ordered realms]. Finally, veiling his aura, he arrived at the periphery of the Grand Pot Primordial Domain [the foundational realm and ancestral homeland of the Grand Pot lineage].

Upon reaching this place, Eldrin Chen did not enter directly. Instead, he sent a missive to an old friend.

Not long after, a dazzling stream of violet light shot forth from within the Grand Pot Primordial Domain.

The newcomer was wreathed in a towering sword intent, with overwhelming Chaos Sword [a sword imbued with the power of primordial chaos] radiance coiling around him. This was none other than the current Imperial Scion of the Grand Pot Primordial Domain, 'Violet Glow Sword Extreme'.

Violet Glow Sword Extreme concealed his presence and ventured into the Chaos [the primordial, undifferentiated state of existence], swiftly finding his way into a Chaos Nest [a stable pocket or node within the chaotic void].

"Old friend Abyssal [a title referring to Eldrin Chen, denoting his connection to profound depths], you are a Progenitor of a Great Dao yourself. Must you meet me with such secrecy?"

After entering the Chaos Nest, Violet Glow Sword Extreme looked towards Eldrin Chen, who had hidden his aura not far away, and inquired with a note of puzzlement in his voice.

Eldrin Chen shook his head, then spoke with a faint smile, "I summoned you this time for a matter of utmost importance. To avoid arousing suspicion, the fewer who know of it, the better."

Violet Glow Sword Extreme was momentarily taken aback, then replied with grave seriousness, "What matter could be of such consequence?"

Without answering, Eldrin Chen retrieved from his sleeve, with the utmost care, a small wind chime intricately carved with divine phoenix patterns.

"This is..."

The moment his eyes fell upon the small chime, Violet Glow Sword Extreme's expression shifted subtly.

As a being born from a Primordial Chaos Spiritual Treasure Embryo, Violet Glow Sword Extreme naturally recognized the profound nature of this wind chime and understood its immense significance.

For the Grand Pot Primordial Domain, a fully formed Chaos Spiritual Treasure was far less valuable than such a Primordial Chaos Spiritual Treasure Embryo.

This was because a completed Chaos Spiritual Treasure lost its malleability, making it exceedingly difficult to embark on the Path of Numinous Treasure Enlightenment. Even if one managed to cultivate to the level of a Chaos Celestial Emperor, further advancement was often nearly impossible.

In contrast, a Primordial Chaos Spiritual Treasure Embryo like this, not yet fully solidified, possessed boundless potential once it set foot upon the cultivation path of a Spiritual Treasure seeking enlightenment.

He, Violet Glow Sword Extreme, was a prime example. As a Primordial Chaos Spiritual Treasure Embryo, his cultivation journey spanned a mere thousand or so Kalpa Tribulation [cosmic cycles of immense duration], yet his cultivation had already ascended to the Sage Ascendant Realm.

At this pace, within at most one thousand Kalpa Tribulation [an immense cosmic cycle in Buddhist cosmology, often billions of years], Violet Glow Sword Extreme would be able to break through into the realm of a Chaos Celestial Emperor [a supreme ruler born from primordial chaos].

Furthermore, because his foundation was inherently rooted in Chaos [the primordial state of undifferentiated existence], he would encounter no bottlenecks whatsoever when advancing to become a Chaos Celestial Emperor.

If this was true for Violet Glow Sword Extreme, then naturally, it would be the same for this little bell.

Thinking of this, Violet Glow Sword Extreme could scarcely contain his excitement. He could not help but ask, "You intend to gift this Primordial Chaos Spiritual Treasure Embryo [the nascent form of a supreme treasure born from primordial chaos] to our lineage of the Grand Pot Primordial Domain?"

Eldrin Chen nodded and then spoke, "This Primordial Chaos Spiritual Treasure Embryo is named the 'Myriad Phoenix Chime' [a chime embodying the essence of countless phoenixes]. Once entrusted to Grand Pot Dao Progenitor for nurturing, it will inevitably metamorphose into a new Chaos Celestial Emperor."

"This matter is of extraordinary significance. Therefore, I wish to speak with Grand Pot Dao Progenitor in person."

"Agreed." Violet Glow Sword Extreme nodded, then said, "I will personally inform Master. I believe our venerable master would be willing to accept this junior sister."

As he spoke, his excitement still palpable, Violet Glow Sword Extreme immediately vanished into the Grand Pot Primordial Domain to deliver this news to Grand Pot Dao Progenitor.

Not long after, when Violet Glow Sword Extreme returned, he was accompanied by a peerless beauty draped in violet Nyssa [a type of elegant, flowing garment].

"I pay my respects to Senior Grand Pot."

Eldrin Chen's gaze flickered subtly. He immediately cupped his hands in a respectful salute and spoke.

The peerless beauty was none other than Grand Pot Dao Progenitor [a supreme being who has comprehended the fundamental principles of the Dao]. She glanced at Eldrin Chen and inquired directly, "Where is the Myriad Phoenix Chime [an enchanted artifact that resonates with the song of countless phoenixes]?"

Without a word, Eldrin Chen retrieved the Myriad Phoenix Chime.

The peerless beauty looked upon it, a flicker of fondness crossing her features. A faint smile graced her lips as she said, "This Myriad Phoenix Chime is most suited for one who practices the Spiritual Treasure Dao-Attainment Method [a profound cultivation art focused on harmonizing with and empowering spiritual treasures]."

"Hand her over to me. You may name any condition."

Eldrin Chen's heart settled, and a solemn expression settled upon his face.

This Grand Pot Dao Progenitor was an enigma, the most reclusive of the Dao Progenitor [a supreme realm of cultivation, representing the origin of a fundamental Dao] within the Seven Domains of the Southern Abyss. Her true strength had always been a closely guarded secret.

Yet now, Eldrin Chen sensed that Grand Pot Dao Progenitor's concealment ran far deeper. She was likely the most mysterious and profoundly hidden Chaos Celestial Emperor [a supreme ruler whose power originates from the primordial chaos] within the Seven Domains of the Southern Abyss.

Although Celestial Emperor [a supreme ruler among cultivators] who followed the path of Spiritual Treasure Dao-Attainment were often slightly weaker than their peers in direct combat, Grand Pot Dao Progenitor was no ordinary being.

Consider this: each of her five great disciples, with her guidance, had ascended to the realm of Chaos Celestial Emperor.

As the progenitor who pioneered the Spiritual Treasure Dao-Attainment Method [a profound cultivation art focused on comprehending the Dao through spiritual treasures], how utterly terrifying must her own power be?