Chapter 2082 : Into the Chaos Desolation Sea

Eldrin Chen gave a slight nod. The Chaos Desolation Sea [a vast, primordial sea of chaotic energies] was treacherous and unpredictable, and the place he was about to explore was one of its most perilous forbidden zones.

Therefore, for this journey into the heart of the Chaos Desolation Sea, he did not plan to venture alone. Besides inviting the Indestructibility Ancient One, he had also asked the Obsidian Abyss Great Emperor to accompany them.

With this thought, Eldrin Chen smiled and said, "Please wait a moment, Senior. Fellow Daoist Obsidian Abyss should be arriving shortly."

No sooner had Eldrin Chen's words fallen than a majestic figure strode into the Great Hall from outside. It was none other than the Obsidian Abyss Great Emperor, the leader of the Five Emperors of the Immortal Court.

Upon entering the Great Hall, he promptly clasped his hands and said, "My apologies for being slightly delayed. I have kept you both waiting."

"It is of no consequence. We have only just arrived ourselves," Eldrin Chen replied.

With a warm smile, Eldrin Chen gestured for the Obsidian Abyss Great Emperor to take a seat. Then, with a sweep of his sleeve, he unfurled a Chaos Cosmographic Map [a mystical chart depicting the structure of the cosmos].

The two men looked up at the map, their brows furrowing slightly.

The map Eldrin Chen had revealed was titled the 'Cosmographic Map of the Blazing Central Hundred Domains'. It charted nearly one hundred surrounding Chaos Domain [vast regions of primordial chaos] and the territories of several hundred Primordial Domain [the foundational realms born from chaos].

This particular Cosmographic Map documented the distant Chaos territories spanning hundreds of millions of Desolate Journey [a unit of immense cosmic distance], all centered around the Blazing Central Primordial Domain.

It must be understood that the distance of a single Desolate Journey [a vast cosmological unit of distance] is the distance a Great Encompassing Golden Immortal [a supreme immortal being] could traverse flying at full speed for one million years.

This single Desolate Journey is so immense that for a Great Encompassing Golden Immortal to fly from south to north, even with no obstacles whatsoever, would require the passage of over one million Kalpa Tribulation [immense cosmic cycles spanning billions of years].

The Tri-Pole Primordial Domain [the primordial realm encompassing the three poles] itself has only existed for one or two million Kalpa Tribulation since its inception.

In other words, if a Great Encompassing Golden Immortal had begun crossing the Blazing Central Hundred Domains [the hundred central domains of blazing essence] at the very dawn of the Primordial Beginning Domain [the domain of primordial beginnings], they would only now be barely emerging from the other side.

In truth, considering the perils of the Chaos Desolation Sea [the boundless sea of chaotic desolation], not even a Great Encompassing Golden Immortal, but likely even a Great Emperor [a sovereign emperor of immense power], would find it exceedingly difficult to traverse such a vast distance.

Contemplating this, Indestructibility Ancient One spoke, "This time, which of the forbidden lands within the Blazing Central Hundred Domains do you intend to explore?"

Eldrin Chen pondered for a moment, not immediately replying.

Within the Vast and Boundless Chaos Desolation Sea [the immeasurable sea of chaotic desolation], treasures are virtually innumerable. However, the Chaos Desolation Sea is too vast and is in a state of constant flux and motion.

Therefore, even though the entire Blazing Central Hundred Domains is home to several hundred Chaos Heavenly Emperor [Heavenly Emperors who rule over chaos] and even several thousand beings of the Sage Ascendant [a realm just below the Sage] rank, their exploration of this Chaos Desolation Sea remains extremely limited.

By Eldrin Chen's estimation, the explored portion likely does not exceed one percent.

If Eldrin Chen wished to search for Innate Primordial Breath [the most fundamental and purest form of energy from the dawn of creation], or Rare Spiritual Wonders [objects of immense spiritual power and rarity] of the Innate Supreme Treasure [a supreme treasure born from the Primordial Chaos] tier, then by wandering the Chaos Desolation Sea [the vast, primordial sea of chaotic energies between worlds] long enough, he would inevitably find something.

But what they needed was Chaos Genesis Energy [the foundational energy from which all things in the Chaos were born], or Chaos Spiritual Artifact [an artifact forged from or containing the essence of Primordial Chaos]. Treasures of this caliber, even within the Chaos Desolation Sea, were exceedingly rare, world-shaking Rare Spiritual Wonders.

If they searched aimlessly, they could scour the seas for thousands, even tens of thousands of Kalpa Tribulation [a cosmic cycle of immense duration, often associated with great upheaval], and still might not find a trace of Chaos Genesis Energy.

Therefore, this time, Eldrin Chen decided to venture into some of the forbidden lands, to increase their chances of obtaining such treasures.

These so-called forbidden lands were places within the Chaos [the formless, primordial state before creation] of extreme peril.

Their origins were shrouded in mystery. Some were lairs of Chaos Tier [a realm of power equivalent to the primordial chaos itself] behemoths. Others possessed unique Chaos field domains, or held remnants of secret realms left over from the time of the Primordial Chaos Unfolding [the event where the unified Primordial Chaos separated to form the myriad heavens and worlds].

In short, such forbidden lands often harbored dangers capable of threatening even a Chaos Heavenly Emperor [a sovereign whose power rivals the primordial chaos itself].

It was precisely for this reason that Eldrin Chen had invited Indestructibility Ancient One and Obsidian Abyss Great Emperor, to bolster their chances of success.

With this in mind, Eldrin Chen looked at the map before him and spoke, "Within the Blazing Central Hundred Domains, there are several dozen places that can be called forbidden lands."

"But our strength is insufficient. We cannot explore those forbidden lands potent enough to severely injure or even suppress a Chaos Heavenly Emperor."

Having spoken thus, Eldrin Chen finally selected three perilous sites and spoke, "It seems now that the places we can explore are limited to these three."

"The Heavenly Furnace Grotto-Heaven [a secluded paradise realm centered around a celestial furnace], the Profound Heaven Ruins [the ruins of a profound heavenly realm], and the Primordial Chaos Fragment World [a shattered world born from the primordial chaos]."

Looking at the three perilous sites Eldrin Chen had singled out, Indestructibility Ancient One and Obsidian Abyss Great Emperor exchanged glances, then both revealed looks of understanding.

These three ruins were of extraordinary origin, specifically chosen by Eldrin Chen. They shared one common trait: they forbade entry to any power stronger than a Sage Ascendant [a cultivator who has ascended to the sage level].

Among the three great secret realms, the Heavenly Furnace Grotto-Heaven possessed an ancient legacy. Legend held that over ten million Kalpa Tribulation [immense cosmic cycles spanning billions of years] ago, it was the ancient hegemon of this Chaos Domain [a domain born from primordial chaos].

In that era, the Heavenly Furnace Grotto-Heaven had a profound foundation, boasting six 'Path Union Supreme' [Supreme beings who have unified their cultivation path]. Moreover, these six Path Union Supreme were all paramount powerhouses who had existed since the time of the Primordial Chaos Unfolding [the initial unfolding of the primordial chaos at the dawn of creation].

At that time, the power of the Heavenly Furnace Grotto-Heaven far surpassed that of the present-day Blazing Central Lineage [a lineage centered on blazing power]. It possessed six Path Union Supreme and hundreds of Chaos Heavenly Emperor [Heavenly Emperors born from chaos], its strength and foundational heritage enough to awe the entire Myriad Heavens [the countless heavens of existence].

However, ten million Kalpa Tribulation ago, the master of the Heavenly Furnace Grotto-Heaven stepped into the half-step Limitless Realm [a realm bordering on the limitless], seeking to assail the legendary domain of the Limitless Sovereign [a sovereign of limitless power].

No one knew what transpired, only that at the most critical moment of his impending breakthrough, he suddenly met a violent end.

Immediately thereafter, the vast Heavenly Furnace Grotto-Heaven was utterly annihilated overnight. All six Path Union Supreme and over a hundred Chaos Heavenly Emperor perished completely, their paths extinguished.

Only the Heavenly Furnace Grotto-Heaven [a legendary hidden realm of cultivation], was preemptively exiled and concealed by the six Path Union Supreme [cultivators who have unified their cultivation path to its peak]. It transformed into a secret land of inheritance, appearing only once every ten thousand Kalpa Tribulation [immense cosmic cycles spanning billions of years].

The origins of the Profound Heaven Ruins [the shattered remains of a once-glorious cultivation domain] are quite similar. This lineage was the second-generation hegemon that rose after the Heavenly Furnace Grotto-Heaven.

At the zenith of its power, it possessed three Path Union Supreme. The leader among them, Profound Heaven Supreme, had cultivated his power to the pinnacle of the Supreme Realm [the highest attainable stage of cultivation before transcending mortality].

Although he had never taken half a step into the Limitless Realm [a mythical state of boundless power beyond the Supreme Realm], legends claim he had already mastered the Soul Path [a profound cultivation art focused on the soul] of the Path Union Realm.

Precisely because of this, Profound Heaven Supreme was suddenly struck by a Tribulation [a catastrophic heavenly retribution or trial] one day. Along with the entire Profound Heaven Ruins, he was utterly annihilated in the span of a single breath.

The Profound Heaven Ruins he left behind also appears only once every ten thousand Kalpa Tribulation.

The final location, the Primordial Chaos Fragment World [a shattered world born from primordial chaos], is said to have formed from the remnants of a Primordial Chaos Secret Realm [a realm born in the earliest epoch of creation] that shattered during the Primordial Chaos Unfolding [the primordial event of creation and separation].

However, this fragmented ancient world is saturated with incomplete Dao patterns [the fundamental laws of reality] at the Primordial Chaos [the primordial, foundational level of existence] level. Even a Path Union Supreme would find it difficult to force their way inside.

Recalling the origins of these three forbidden lands, Obsidian Abyss Great Emperor [a title meaning 'Great Emperor of the Obsidian Abyss'] could not help but speak. "You intend to explore these three great forbidden lands?"

Eldrin Chen nodded, then stated, "Both the Profound Heaven Ruins and the Heavenly Furnace Grotto-Heaven appear only once every ten thousand Kalpa Tribulation."

"The last time the Profound Heaven Secret Realm manifested was nearly ten thousand Kalpa Tribulation [immense cosmic cycles] ago."

"As for the Heavenly Furnace Grotto-Heaven, its emergence is likely within the next few million Kalpa Tribulation."

"This represents a monumental Opportunity and Fortune for us. To miss it would be a profound regret."

Indestructibility Ancient One nodded slowly before speaking. "Both of these secret realms carry immense Karma [the metaphysical weight of cause and effect]. Should we become entangled with them, it could invite significant future tribulations."

"However, if one were to ascend to the Chaos Heavenly Emperor Realm, such Karma might become negligible."

Eldrin Chen gave a solemn nod, his expression grave. "The factions behind these two ruins likely perished due to the intervention of a Chaos Sovereign."

"If we were to truly seize the Opportunity and Fortune within, we would inevitably be stained by a measure of that Karma."

Even as he spoke these words, Eldrin Chen showed no trace of concern.

In this vast Chaos [the primordial, formless state before creation], who could hope to advance further without accumulating some measure of Karma?

Eldrin Chen was certain that even if he avoided all Karma, the moment he attempted his breakthrough into the Chaos Sovereign Realm, those existing Chaos Sovereign would inevitably rise to block his path.

After all, the first two overlords of the Blazing Central Hundred Domains met their demise precisely because, while attempting their breakthrough into the Chaos Sovereign Realm, they were ground to dust by the shadowy hand—or hands—of powerful, ineffable enemies.

Witnessing this, the Obsidian Abyss Great Emperor nearby also nodded in agreement. "If we still wish to advance further," he said, "we will inevitably become entangled in such Karma [the cosmic principle of cause and effect that binds all actions]."

"In my view," he continued, "we absolutely cannot afford to miss the expeditions to the Heavenly Furnace Grotto-Heaven and the Profound Heaven Secret Realm [a legendary hidden realm of profound mysteries]."

Seeing this consensus, the Indestructibility Ancient One spoke up. "Since that is the case," he declared, "then let us prepare to set forth."

"The Profound Heaven Ruins will open in thirty Kalpa Tribulation [immense cosmic cycles spanning billions of years]. Our time is already growing short."

Eldrin Chen gave a firm nod. He immediately summoned Exquisite Jiang and the others, entrusting the affairs of the Immortal Court to them. Then, alongside the Indestructibility Ancient One and his companions, he departed for the Depths of Chaos.

The trio left the Tri-Pole Primordial Domain behind, traversing the Vast and Boundless Chaos Desolation Sea directly as they journeyed toward the secret location where the Profound Heaven Ruins lay hidden.

Along the way, thoughts of the Profound Heaven Secret Realm surfaced in Eldrin Chen's mind. He turned to the Indestructibility Ancient One and inquired, "Senior, you have trodden the Dao [the fundamental truth and path of cultivation] for several hundred thousand Kalpa Tribulation. Surely your knowledge of the Chaos Desolation Sea runs far deeper than mine."

The Indestructibility Ancient One pondered for a moment before replying. "Compared to the present Blazing Central Hundred Domains," he began, "the ancient Profound Heaven Chaos Domain was far more expansive."

"Legends say that in that era, the Profound Heaven Chaos Domain ruled over three hundred surrounding Chaos Domain. Its territory was vastly more immense than even the current Blazing Central Hundred Domains."

"After the Profound Heaven Chaos Domain was destroyed, the Blazing Central Lineage inherited only a portion of its former territories. The rest were seized by newly ascended or neighboring Path Union Supreme powers."

"However, from what I know, the strength of these territories is not significantly greater than that of the Blazing Central Hundred Domains."

As he spoke, the Indestructibility Ancient One paused briefly before continuing, "But according to legend, nearly ten billion Desolate Journey away from the Blazing Central Hundred Domains..."

"...lies an immensely grand and powerful force known as the Seven Domains Alliance. That is a truly ineffable and formidable power."

"The Seven Domains Alliance?"

Eldrin Chen was slightly taken aback, a flicker of curiosity crossing his features.

The Indestructibility Ancient One nodded, his gaze turning solemn. "Legend holds that the Seven Domains Alliance is a coalition formed by seven Mid-Grade Chaos Domain."

"The power of these seven domains is immense. Each one far surpasses the Blazing Central Primordial Domain in strength, with at least one being at the half-step Realm of Chaos Sovereign level presiding over it."

Upon hearing this, Eldrin Chen felt a tremor in his heart and couldn't help but ask, "Each domain has a half-step Chaos Sovereign? That would mean there are at least seven half-step Chaos Sovereign in total?"

The Indestructibility Ancient One nodded again, then sighed. "The Seven Domains Alliance is a unified entity. Not only does it possess seven invincible Supreme, but it also has several dozen Path Union Supreme."

"Legend has it that when they join forces, they are powerful enough to rival a Chaos Sovereign [a supreme ruler of the primordial chaos]. Even the Limitless Sovereign [the ruler of the Third Chaos Realm] would show them a measure of respect."

Eldrin Chen gave a slight nod of understanding. The Third Chaos Realm was known as the Limitless Realm, hence beings of that realm were also called Limitless Sovereigns or Chaos Sovereigns.

Such figures stood at the very pinnacle of the Chaos Realm [the realm of primordial chaos], nearly indescribable and supremely powerful entities, numbered among the most formidable existences within the vast Chaos [the primordial, formless state from which all creation emerged].

This Seven Domains Alliance, he surmised, was likely formed by those half-step Limitless Realm powerhouses precisely to contend with the might of the Third Chaos Realm.

Contemplating this, Eldrin Chen could not help but sigh with feeling. "The Chaos is boundless and immeasurable. Compared to the Blazing Central Hundred Domains, the Southern Abyss Seven Domains is but a remote corner."

"Conversely, the Blazing Central Hundred Domains itself seems insignificant when measured against the Seven Domains Alliance."

"Yet, even the Seven Domains Alliance, within the entirety of the Chaos, likely does not represent the true, central heart of power, does it?"

Indestructibility Ancient One nodded in agreement, a smile touching his lips. "This Seven Domains Alliance may indeed far surpass our Blazing Central Hundred Domains."

"But cast your gaze across the whole of the Chaos. Even a Limitless Chaos Domain [a domain within the Chaos anchored by a Limitless Sovereign], guarded by a Third Chaos Realm presence, can only be considered a prosperous Chaos Domain. Who would dare claim it as the true Central [the core, the heart] of the Chaos?"

The Obsidian Abyss Great Emperor [a Great Emperor whose Dao title references the Obsidian Abyss], standing nearby, let out a sigh. "It is said that after breaking through to become a Chaos Heavenly Emperor [a Heavenly Emperor within the Chaos realms] using the Nine Revolutions Heavenly Art [a supreme cultivation art of nine cycles], one can sense the Path Marker [a mystical beacon or guide] leading to the Nine Revolutions Ancestral Court [the legendary ancestral court associated with the Nine Revolutions lineage]."

"I wonder," Eldrin Chen mused, "whether the place where the Patriarch who founded the Nine Revolutions Heavenly Art resides can truly be considered the Central of Chaos?"

Hearing this, Eldrin Chen and the Indestructibility Ancient One immediately adopted expressions of deep respect. Eldrin Chen spoke, his voice filled with reverence, "Even if it is not the absolute Central, it must surely be counted as one of the Four Extremities of Chaos."

As he spoke these words, a profound sense of awe washed over Eldrin Chen.

Legend held that one who mastered the Nine Revolutions Heavenly Art and used it as their foundation to break through to the realm of a Chaos Heavenly Emperor would earn the right to become an inner disciple of that lineage.

The mere thought was staggering—a Chaos Heavenly Emperor who had perfected the Nine Revolutions Heavenly Art was considered merely an inner disciple. The implications behind this were enough to send shivers down one's spine.

Eldrin Chen had no doubt that the founder of the Nine Revolutions Heavenly Art must have been a supreme existence of the Third Chaos Realm, likely even among the very pinnacle of that unfathomable realm.

"..."

The three of them conversed, their minds wandering across the imagined vastness of the Chaos Desolation Sea. Unnoticed, their journey carried them across that distant expanse until they arrived at the stretch of the Chaos Desolation Sea that lay just beyond the Profound Heaven Ruins.

"This is the place,"

Eldrin Chen murmured softly, his gaze fixed upon the churning mists of the Chaos Desolation Sea before them.

The Obsidian Abyss Great Emperor [a title for a supreme ruler of the demonic abyss] also nodded, but as he swept his gaze across the surroundings, a slight frown creased his brow. "Quite a few have come," he remarked.

Eldrin Chen looked around and sensed that within the surrounding Chaos [the primordial, formless state from which all things originate], over a hundred powerful auras lay concealed.

The weakest of these auras belonged to beings at the Sage Ascendant [a realm just below the ultimate sages] level, with a select few having even stepped into the domain of the Limitless Sage Ascendant [a supreme sage whose power knows no bounds].

Seeing this, Indestructibility Ancient One spoke up at the opportune moment. "Each time the Profound Heaven Ruins [ancient ruins of profound heavenly origin] open, their true purpose is to screen for prodigies possessing the potential to reach Path Union Supreme [the supreme state where one's path merges with the ultimate truth]."

"Once a suitable prodigy emerges, the Profound Heaven Ruins will grant them the Opportunity and Fortune [a rare chance and blessing of fate] to break through to the Realm of Chaos [the realm of primordial chaos]. In exchange, these prodigies owe a favor to the Profound Heaven Lineage [the ancient lineage descended from the Profound Heaven]."

As he spoke, Indestructibility Ancient One shook his head. "These individuals all consider themselves Extraordinary [destined for greatness], but passing the trial is a thousand times difficult, fraught with ten thousand perils."

Hearing this, Eldrin Chen nodded in agreement.

For the Profound Heaven Supreme [the supreme being behind the Profound Heaven lineage] lurking behind the Profound Heaven Ruins, a favor from someone with potential below the Path Union Supreme level is of almost no use.

Given the Tribulation [a cataclysmic heavenly trial or calamity] faced by the Profound Heaven Lineage, a mere Chaos Heavenly Emperor [an emperor who rules over a realm of chaos] of the First Realm of Chaos [the initial stage within the Chaos Realm] would possess no ability whatsoever to intervene.

Only potential at the Path Union Supreme level or above—preferably with the latent power to reach the Limitless Realm [a boundless state of existence] within Chaos—is worth their investment of Heavy Treasures [priceless and immensely powerful magical artifacts] in exchange for a future favor.

"Since ancient times, the Profound Heaven Ruins have opened hundreds of times, yet those who have obtained treasures from within number no more than ten."

The Indestructibility Ancient One spoke unhurriedly, then added with a bitter smile, "This old man has come here three times in succession, but each time, I was defeated at the second trial."

"If not for the slight progress in my Nirvana Rebirth after enduring the Immortal Firmament Tribulation, I would certainly not have come here today to court disappointment."

Eldrin Chen gave a slight nod, offering no further comment. He merely lifted his gaze to survey the surrounding Vast and Boundless Chaos, a trace of solemnity flickering in his eyes.

Within this expanse of Chaos were over a hundred Sage Ascendant. Yet, among them, only a handful truly posed a threat that Eldrin Chen could sense.

However, three individuals among them emanated an overwhelming sense of peril that deeply unsettled Eldrin Chen.

Of these three mighty beings, the first bore the likeness of a Primordial Era Demonic Ape, gripping a Primordial Era War Spear forged from Nine Nether Abyssal Netherworld Iron.

The second was clad in Gilded Battle Armor, his entire form radiating an intensely scorching aura.

The third was a woman, her graceful form sheathed in battle armor. With every flicker of her gaze, a divine light seemed to flash, one capable of World-Opening and sundering the cosmos.

Noticing his expression, the Indestructibility Ancient One spoke up, "These three possess extraordinary power. They are the Primordial Era Demonic Ape, Blazing Center Incinerator, and the Azure Mist Female Sage."

"All three of them are supreme beings who have cultivated the Nine True Spirit Divine Forms and fused them into a singular, ultimate form."

As the Indestructibility Ancient One narrated, Eldrin Chen gradually came to understand the origins of these three individuals.

It turned out all three were peerless prodigies from the lineage of Fleshly Body Sanctification [a supreme cultivation art focused on forging an indestructible physical form]. Among them, the Primordial Era Demonic Ape was none other than the Primordial Demonic Ape Progenitor from the Tri-Pole Primordial Domain.

Now, having pledged allegiance to the Outer Realm Demon Emperor, he had become the foremost Divine General under the Demon Emperor's command. His combat prowess was reputed to be unmatched beneath the Chaos Heavenly Emperor, with strength even capable of challenging a Heavenly Emperor [a supreme sovereign ruler of a heavenly domain].

The Blazing Center Incinerator was the foremost powerhouse of the third generation within the Blazing Central Lineage. He excelled in the ultimate path of Burst [a divine ability that unleashes explosive power in a short duration], capable of erupting with combat strength that could directly confront a Chaos Heavenly Emperor for a brief period.

The last, Azure Mist Female Sage, was a rising star who had emerged within the last ten thousand Kalpa Tribulation [immense cosmic cycles marking epochs of time].

She rose to prominence three thousand Kalpa Tribulation ago, making her a peerless prodigy among the younger generation.

Legends spoke of her single-handedly engaging the Chaos Heavenly Emperor in a fierce three-thousand-exchange battle without defeat, even withdrawing with ease and composure. This was a clear testament to her formidable and undeniable strength.

"Three existences who have cultivated the Sole True Form [the ultimate, unified state of the Nine True Spirit Divine Forms]. No wonder they exert such immense pressure."

Eldrin Chen's thoughts flickered. He estimated that even if he unleashed his full arsenal with all his might, facing these three Invincible Sage Ascendant [beings at the peak of the Sage Ascendant realm, one step below the Path Ancestor level], his only path would likely be a retreat into the depths of the Chaos Desolation Sea.

Of course, with the protection of the Returning Abyss Divine Rune [a supreme defensive divine ability], Eldrin Chen had more than enough means to ensure his own safety.

Considering this, Eldrin Chen spoke, "How do the strengths of these three compare to yours, Senior?"

"They are on par with me."

Indestructibility Ancient One replied, then added, "Among them, Blazing Center Incinerator is the strongest. Legend has it he once refined a Chaos Origin Pearl [a primordial treasure containing the essence of chaos], but fortunately, he has not yet mastered the Chaos Divine Rune [a divine ability harnessing the power of primordial chaos]."

"As for the other two, while their power is not weak either, they likely still cannot easily overcome this old man."

At this point, Indestructibility Ancient One added further, "The Primordial Era Immortal Firmament Tribulation [a cataclysmic heavenly tribulation from the dawn of time] allowed this old man to advance another step. In a true fight, I might even have a slightly better chance of victory."