Chapter 2152 : Legacy of the Desolate Heaven

The Aurelius the Golden Armard Supreme paused for a moment, then produced a treasure mirror [a magical artifact used for communication or scrying], seemingly contacting someone else.

After a short while, he put the mirror away and looked at Eldrin Chen with a rather surprised expression. "So you are the fortunate one who inherited the legacy of the Desolation Heaven Supreme? No wonder you managed to slay that old fellow Blazing Center Supreme."

"However," he continued, "the Karma [the cosmic principle of cause and effect governing one's destiny] of the Desolation Heaven Supreme is not a burden to be shouldered lightly."

At this point, the Aurelius the Golden Armor Supreme shook his head, a look of solemnity appearing on his face.

Eldrin Chen was momentarily taken aback, realizing then that the news of him obtaining the legacy of the Desolate Heaven Ancient Hall and vanquishing Blazing Center Supreme had already spread.

Yet, upon reflection, this was to be expected. The Seven Domains Alliance, as the Sovereign [the supreme ruling power] of this region of the Chaos [the primordial, formless expanse from which all realms are born], undoubtedly possessed an intelligence network far beyond his own. Furthermore, his acquisition of the Desolate Heaven's legacy was hardly a secret.

With this thought, Eldrin Chen clasped his hands in salute. "Indeed, it is I. May I inquire as to your esteemed name, Fellow Daoist?"

"This old man's Daoist title is Golden Radiance. I have merely lived a few more years than you; my cultivation base may not surpass yours by much. There is no need for such formalities."

Aurelius the Radiance Supreme spoke with a smile, then led Eldrin Chen into the depths of the Tri-Mystery Chaos Domain.

Once they had stepped fully into the Tri-Mystery Chaos Domain, Aurelius the Radiance Supreme spoke again. "Not long ago, the five subordinate forces under the command of the Netherworld Sovereign suddenly launched an assault. They divided their forces into five paths to attack our Seven Domains Alliance."

"Our Tri-Mystery Chaos Domain is the frontline against the Nether Mastiff Clan, so it is only natural we must be doubly vigilant."

Eldrin Chen's expression grew solemn, and he asked, "With five major powers joining forces, can our Seven Domains Alliance withstand them?"

"We should be secure."

Aurelius the Radiance Supreme replied with great confidence, a smile gracing his lips. "The Seven Domains Alliance is a superpower, capable of contending with a Limitless Sovereign [a supreme being who has transcended all limits]. As long as the Netherworld Sovereign does not personally intervene, we should be able to hold our ground."

Eldrin Chen nodded in understanding, having grasped the general situation of the Seven Domains Alliance.

The core of the Seven Domains Alliance consists of seven large Mid-Grade Chaos Domain [realms of primordial chaos]. These seven Chaos Domain are not only home to seven Half-Step Limitless [cultivators on the very cusp of the Sovereign realm], but also boast over three hundred Path Union Supreme [cultivators who have unified their cultivation path to its peak].

Such formidable strength surpasses even some forces led by a Sovereign. Even the direct lineage of the Netherworld Sovereign likely cannot muster such a number of Path Union Supreme.

This is because, in essence, the Seven Domains Alliance is a superpower formed by the alliance of seven of the most elite Half-Step Limitless.

Each of the seven Patriarch leading the Seven Domains Alliance is a powerhouse standing closest to the Chaos Sovereign [a Sovereign born from primordial chaos]. Were it not for the obstruction of a Chaos Sovereign, they would likely have already broken through to the Sovereign Realm.

It can be said that the strength of these seven Patriarch is truly heaven-defying, each possessing combat prowess sufficient to face at least three opponents of equal rank.

After the seven Patriarch formed their alliance, it attracted a great number of top-tier Path Union cultivators from within the Chaos [the primordial, formless state before creation] who aspired to become Sovereign [a supreme ruler who has mastered a fundamental law of the cosmos].

Therefore, besides these seven Peak Half-Step Limitless [cultivators at the absolute pinnacle of the Half-Step Limitless realm, just shy of true Sovereignty], the Seven Domains Alliance also boasted over twenty other Half-Step Limitless [cultivators who have partially transcended mortal limits but have not yet solidified their Sovereign foundation] who had not yet forged their Sovereign Foundation [the unshakable core of power and law upon which a Sovereign's authority is built].

Such formidable strength and profound heritage [accumulated power, resources, and legacy] were exceedingly rare even within the vastness of the Chaos, and the Sovereign powers that could rival them could be counted on one hand.

Even the direct lineage of the Primordial Chaos Myriad Dragon Nest [a legendary realm said to be the origin of countless dragon species], when all its Half-Step Limitless were tallied, numbered at most a dozen or so—less than half the strength of the Seven Domains Alliance.

It could be said that, lacking only a true Chaos Sovereign [a Sovereign who rules over a portion of the primordial Chaos itself], the Seven Domains Alliance surpassed the vast majority of Sovereign factions in every other measure of power and heritage.

With such might at their command, it was little wonder the Seven Domains Alliance dared to proclaim themselves a superpower, one capable of challenging even a Chaos Sovereign.

At the very least, relying on their alliance's super-formation [a grand, interconnected array of immense power], they possessed the means to stand against a Chaos Sovereign in battle.

Furthermore, legends whispered that the Seven Domains Alliance enjoyed the covert support of certain Chaos Sovereign, for not all who held that supreme title sought to bar the path for others seeking the Dao [the ultimate truth and principle of the universe].

Among the Chaos Sovereign existed those of benevolent heart and noble character, though their numbers were dwarfed by those path-blocking Sovereign [Sovereigns who actively hinder the ascension of others to protect their own dominance]. Thus, they could only offer their support [patronage and protection] to the Seven Domains Alliance from the shadows.

"It seems the Seven Domains Alliance possesses ample confidence [underlying strength and assurance]," he concluded.

Eldrin Chen murmured inwardly, then spoke aloud, "Since they find it so difficult to breach the Seven Domains Alliance, why waste their efforts in a futile assault?"

"This matter..."

Aurelius the Radiance Supreme pondered briefly before replying, "If my conjecture is correct, their aim is to weaken our strength in preparation for the emergence of the Primordial Chaos Secret Realm?"

"The Primordial Chaos Secret Realm?"

Eldrin Chen was momentarily taken aback, a flicker of surprise crossing his features.

Aurelius the Radiance Supreme nodded and continued, "A Sovereign once divined that, within three hundred thousand Kalpa Tribulation [immense cosmic cycles], a Primordial Chaos Secret Realm would manifest in the vicinity of the Seven Domains Alliance."

"And within that secret realm," he added, "traces of the Chaos Supreme Treasure known as the Chaos Bell are prophesied to appear, along with a sliver of opportunity to break through to the Sovereign realm."

Upon hearing this, Eldrin Chen's expression shifted visibly, a tremor of awe passing through him.

Eldrin Chen was, of course, aware of the Chaos Supreme Treasure known as the Chaos Bell.

Within the vastness of the Chaos [the primordial state before creation], Chaos Supreme Treasure [artifacts born from the primordial chaos] are exceedingly rare. According to the calculations of Nameless, their number should be precisely nine.

There are the Three Treasures of Creation: the Chaos Pearl [a primordial pearl said to contain the seed of a universe], the Chaos Cauldron [a cosmic crucible capable of refining the essence of chaos], and the Chaos Bell [a bell whose toll can shape the laws of nascent reality].

There are the Three Treasures of the Great Path [the supreme, all-encompassing Dao]: the Space-Time Disc [a disc governing the boundless flow of time and space], the True Spirit Diagram [a chart mapping the eternal and immutable essence of all spirits], and the Great Path Tome [the ultimate scripture containing the principles of the Great Dao itself].

Then there are the Three Treasures of Annihilation: the Blade of Oblivion [a blade that severs existence into nothingness], the World-Ending Millstone [a millstone that grinds entire worlds to dust], and the Returning Abyss Pearl [a pearl that draws all things back into the primordial void].

Among these nine Chaos Supreme Treasure [the highest class of artifacts born from the Primordial Chaos], the Three Treasures of Creation symbolize the initial stages of Chaos [the formless, primordial state before creation] taking form, representing the three Primordial Chaos Great Path [the fundamental laws born from chaos] of the Innate Five Ultimates [the five primordial and perfect elements], Chaos itself, and the Primordial Origin.

The Three Treasures of the Great Path, meanwhile, represent the power of boundless Space-Time [the fabric of reality encompassing dimensions and duration], the Eternal True Spirit [the immutable, core destiny of a being], and the Primordial Chaos Great Path Sea [the infinite ocean of chaotic Dao principles]. However, these three treasures have always remained elusive, seemingly masterless objects adrift in the cosmos.

As for the final Three Treasures of Annihilation, the Blade of Oblivion is held by Oblivion Sovereign [a supreme being whose dominion is utter annihilation]. The World-Ending Millstone is the Companion Supreme Treasure [a supreme treasure bound to its master's life and destiny] of Nameless Path Ancestor's [a legendary, unnamed progenitor of a Dao path] nemesis, World-Extinction Sovereign [a sovereign whose purpose is the end of all worlds]. The Returning Abyss Pearl is the Companion Supreme Treasure of Eldrin Chen.

Thus, these nine Chaos Supreme Treasure, beginning with the Chaos Pearl born from the unity of the Innate Five Ultimates and ending with the Returning Abyss Pearl representing the Great Path of Returning Abyss [the Dao of returning all to the abyssal void], seem to conform to some profound, inscrutable destiny woven into the fabric of fate itself.

Yet, from what Eldrin Chen knows, those who obtained the Treasures of Creation all seemed to incur a mysterious, fate-borne Tribulation [a catastrophic trial or calamity, often karmic in nature].

The Nine Revolutions Path Ancestor [an Ancestor who mastered the Dao through nine profound revolutions], who wielded the Chaos Pearl, was cursed, forced to sever all ties to the 'Innate Five Ultimates Great Path' [the cultivation art of the five primordial elements] and embark upon the Path of Fleshly Body Sanctification [a cultivation path focusing on refining the physical body to an indestructible state].

The 'Nameless Path Ancestor', who mastered the Chaos Cauldron, also seemed to suffer a curse. He did not attain the Dao through the Primordial Chaos Great Path as manifested by the Thirty-Six Primordial Chaos Ancient Characters [the thirty-six primordial runes that form the basis of chaotic law], but instead stepped into the realm of a Path Ancestor through the Immortal Great Path [the supreme path of immortality].

Logically speaking, if Nameless had successfully cultivated the Soul Path Sovereign [a supreme cultivation art focused on mastering the soul's path], there might have been a sliver of a chance to break the curse. However, due to obstruction from many powerful enemies, he was forced into a deep slumber.

The same fate befell Mandate of Heaven Sovereign, who wielded the Chaos Bell [a supreme treasure forged from primordial chaos]. This Sovereign [a supreme being who has mastered a fundamental cosmic principle] perished completely due to an unknown Tribulation [a cataclysmic heavenly trial or calamity], and thus the Chaos Bell has never appeared in the world since.

Now, Aurelius the Radiance Supreme informed him that traces of the 'Chaos Bell' were likely within the Primordial Chaos Secret Realm [a hidden realm born from the primordial chaos, containing ancient secrets and dangers]. This news truly took Eldrin Chen by great surprise.

"The Chaos Bell,"

Eldrin Chen murmured inwardly. The primary reason the obstructing Sovereign faction currently held the upper hand within the Chaos [the primordial state of existence from which all things emerged] was that their side possessed two Sovereign who each commanded a Chaos Supreme Treasure [an artifact of unparalleled power, born from and embodying the essence of primordial chaos].

In contrast, the factions supporting the rise of new talents and those remaining neutral had only Nine Revolutions Path Ancestor as their sole wielder of a Chaos Supreme Treasure. Their overall strength was thus completely suppressed by their opponents.

After all, among Chaos Sovereign of the same rank, the difference in power between one who commands a Chaos Supreme Treasure and one who does not is not even on the same level.

In the past, had it not been for Oblivion Sovereign's treacherous ambush, even if Nameless had failed his breakthrough and suffered grievous wounds, he would not have been defeated by the mere joint efforts of a few Chaos Sovereign.

In truth, had the former Nameless Path Ancestor [the revered title of the progenitor of the Nameless Path] not fallen, the current power structure of the Chaos would likely be vastly different.

If Eldrin Chen could obtain the Chaos Bell and also recover Nameless's Companion Supreme Treasure [a supreme treasure intrinsically linked to its master], the Chaos Cauldron [a supreme cauldron artifact born of chaos], then in the future, when he once again took up the mantle of the Immortal Path [the supreme path of cultivation leading to immortality], he should be able to completely suppress Oblivion Sovereign and his ilk.

"It seems that once this Primordial Chaos Secret Realm emerges, I too must exert my utmost effort."

Eldrin Chen murmured inwardly, then withdrew his focus.

He suddenly felt as if he had overlooked something, and his expression shifted slightly once more. "Within the Chaos [the primordial state before creation], are there truly only nine Chaos Supreme Treasure [ultimate artifacts born from the primordial chaos]?"

Eldrin Chen pondered silently. In the past, the Nameless Path Ancestor [the progenitor of the Path of Namelessness] had deduced the nature of the Chaos Supreme Treasure, concluding there were nine in total: the three World-Creation Treasures, the three Great Path [the supreme cultivation arts] Treasures, and the three World-Extinction Treasures.

Yet now, Eldrin Chen felt something was missing, and it was a piece of information of critical importance.

"What's missing are Destiny [the inscrutable threads of fate], Karma [the law of cause and effect], and Tribulation [the power of heavenly calamity]."

Eldrin Chen whispered to himself, his pupils reflecting profound gravity.

If there was any force within the Chaos capable of causing the three Mandate of Heaven Sovereign [supreme beings who command the Mandate of Heaven] who wielded the World-Creation Treasures to perish without a trace, it could only be these three indescribable, forbidden powers.

To manipulate Destiny, to toy with Karma, to command Tribulation.

These three supreme Great Path each lead directly to the Half-Step Primordial Chaos Realm [a realm bordering the primordial chaos]. Yet, when the Nameless Path Ancestor deduced the Chaos Supreme Treasure, why did he subconsciously overlook them?

Unless the opponent's cultivation realm far surpassed that of a Sovereign [the pinnacle of cultivation before the Primordial Chaos Realm], causing Nameless Path Ancestor's own cultivation base to subconsciously overlook it.

And why was Eldrin Chen able to perceive this point? With his current level of cultivation, he certainly should not have been able to. Unless his Future self had also reached that very domain.

"The twelve Primordial Chaos Great Path [the supreme foundational laws of existence] can all lead to the Half-Step Primordial Chaos Realm [a transitional state approaching the ultimate realm of creation], and even offer a glimpse of the supreme Primordial Chaos Realm [the ultimate state of being, the source of all creation]."

"It seems now that long before the ancient Chaos Epoch [the primordial era before the current cosmos was formed], there were predecessors who walked ahead, transcending Chaos itself, their names absent from the annals of this Chaos Epoch."

Eldrin Chen pondered inwardly, an inscrutable light flickering deep within his gaze.

He was now somewhat curious. Who exactly was that Half-Step Primordial Chaos expert said to have fallen in the distant Transcendent World [a realm beyond the ordinary cosmos], long before the Chaos Epoch?

Was it the master behind these three Great Path [supreme cultivation arts], or was it someone else entirely?

Without witnessing it firsthand, Eldrin Chen ultimately found it difficult to discern the whole truth through mere speculation.

He withdrew his thoughts and then, cupping his hands in salute towards Aurelius the Radiance Supreme, said, "For revealing the mystery of the Primordial Chaos Secret Realm [a hidden realm containing the secrets of the Primordial Chaos], I offer my thanks, Fellow Daoist."

Aurelius the Radiance Supreme shook his head, then let out a bitter laugh. "Do not dwell on it. The Primordial Chaos Secret Realm holds Chaos Supreme Treasure [artifacts of unimaginable power forged from Primordial Chaos] and opportunities to break through to Sovereign. How could such things be for the likes of us to enjoy?"

"Although the Primordial Chaos Secret Realm and the Chaos Bell repel entry by those at the Sovereign level, allowing only those at the Half-Step Limitless realm to contend for them, without strength at that Half-Step Limitless level, entering would merely make one cannon fodder."

Eldrin Chen nodded, understanding the logic in Aurelius the Radiance Supreme's words.

Yet, he offered a slight smile and spoke, "Even if we cannot obtain the Chaos Bell or the Sovereign level opportunity, there must be numerous lesser opportunities within."

"If we can secure one or two, perhaps we can catch a glimpse of the Half-Step Limitless Realm."

Upon hearing this, Aurelius the Radiance Supreme nodded, a rare flicker of avarice crossing his expression. "That is true, yet the peril will undoubtedly be immense."

With that said, after exchanging a few more words with Eldrin Chen and confirming his identity once more, Aurelius the Radiance Supreme spoke again, "With the great war imminent, Fellow Daoist, will you not lend your aid?"

Eldrin Chen pondered briefly before replying, "I have only recently broken through to the Supreme realm. I fear my assistance would be limited."

Seeing this, Aurelius the Radiance Supreme did not press the matter, stating instead, "We will not force you to stay today. However, once the war reaches a critical juncture, you will undoubtedly be summoned to participate."

"I understand."

Eldrin Chen gave a final nod and took his leave from Aurelius the Radiance Supreme.

Having departed the Tri-Mystery Chaos Domain, Eldrin Chen arrived at the Depths of Chaos and then released Exquisite Jiang and the others.

He gave them a general account of events. After listening, Exquisite Jiang nodded and said, "It seems the Seven Domains Alliance won't face major issues for the time being."

"That appears to be the case for now,"

Eldrin Chen agreed with a nod, then continued, "But we must not let our guard down. The Netherworld Sovereign will likely seize this chance to whittle away the strength of the Seven Domains Alliance, making his utmost preparations to seize the Chaos Bell."

"It's even quite possible that other factions at the Sovereign level will intervene."

Speaking of this, a trace of solemnity flickered across Eldrin Chen's expression.

As the representative of rogue cultivators within the Chaos, the Seven Domains Alliance were natural allies to Eldrin Chen. He even suspected that among their ranks were likely disciples of the long-departed Nameless.

If he could harness this force, his chances of securing the Chaos Bell within the Primordial Chaos Secret Realm would increase dramatically.

Should the Seven Domains Alliance suffer grievous losses, even if Eldrin Chen entered the Primordial Chaos Secret Realm, he would likely find himself fighting a solitary battle.

Understanding this as well, Exquisite Jiang spoke plainly, "There's no need to dwell on it overmuch. Our most pressing task is to enhance our own strength with all haste."

"Mm."

Eldrin Chen gave a slight nod and then spoke, "Let us return first."

As his words fell, Eldrin Chen led the group away, swiftly returning to the Returning Abyss Grotto-Heaven with the aid of the Returning Abyss Pearl.

Upon arriving at the Returning Abyss Grotto-Heaven, Eldrin Chen immediately sensed something was amiss with the grotto-heaven.

After an absence of tens of thousands of Kalpa Tribulation [immense cosmic cycles], the foundational essence of both the Returning Abyss Grotto-Heaven and the Primordial Chaos Secret Realm had increased by no less than several dozenfold. The Heaven and Earth Primordial Energy [the primordial energy that forms the foundation of heaven and earth] had become so dense it was nearly liquid.

With this thought, Eldrin Chen decisively flew out of the Returning Abyss Grotto-Heaven and into the Chaos [the formless, primordial state before creation].

He then surveyed his surroundings and discovered that the current Returning Abyss Chaos Domain now contained one hundred and eight Primordial Domain [primordial worlds].

This grand formation, composed of a full one hundred and eight Primordial Domain, continuously drew in the Sea of Chaos Water [the primordial waters of chaos] and transformed it into various Rare Treasure [rare spiritual materials], causing the Heaven and Earth Primordial Energy within the Returning Abyss Primordial Domain to surge forward with astonishing speed.

By now, the World's Origin [the foundational source energy of a world] of the Returning Abyss Primordial Domain had surpassed its capacity to contain it. The excess foundational essence could no longer be held, even filling both the Returning Abyss Grotto-Heaven and the Primordial Chaos Secret Realm to the brim.

"There are already over one hundred Primordial Domain gathered," he observed. "And many more are in the process of migrating, though they are too distant to arrive swiftly."

At that very moment, Primordial Genesis Path Ancestor [a title for a supreme being who embodies the origin of all creation] approached, his face alight with joy as he spoke. "Barring any unforeseen circumstances, within one hundred thousand Kalpa Tribulation [an immense cosmic cycle of destruction and rebirth], we should be able to gather three hundred Primordial Domain [vast, foundational realms born from the primordial chaos] and deploy the Cosmic Chaos Grand Formation [a legendary formation that harnesses the power of primordial chaos]."

Eldrin Chen gave a slight nod, then turned his gaze to Primordial Genesis Path Ancestor. "I see your accumulation is sufficient, Fellow Daoist. When do you plan to enter seclusion for your breakthrough?"

"In the very near future,"

Primordial Genesis Path Ancestor replied, a rare smile gracing his features.

Seeing this, Eldrin Chen gave another slight nod. "Let us wait a little longer then. I shall first ensure the successful ascension of the Returning Abyss Primordial Domain [a primordial domain named for its connection to the abyssal void]."

With those words, Eldrin Chen immediately activated the Returning Abyss Primordial Domain, channeling the grand formation to draw in boundless Sea of Chaos Water [the primordial waters of chaos, a source of immense spiritual power] to aid in its advancement.

As a major Primordial Domain, and one where numerous Chaos Heavenly Emperor [emperors who have mastered the laws of primordial chaos] had ascended over the years, countless traces of the Primordial Chaos Great Path [the supreme Dao of primordial chaos] had been etched into its very fabric.

Having absorbed these Dao imprints, the Returning Abyss Primordial Domain had long met the conditions for ascension. It could even advance all the way to become a major Middle Grade Primordial Domain [a classification for a particularly vast and potent primordial domain] without issue.

It was only due to a lack of foundational essence that its promotion had been delayed until now.

Now, with ample essence and the personal guidance of Eldrin Chen, a top-tier Path Union Supreme [a supreme cultivator who has unified multiple Great Paths], the process of ascension flowed as naturally as water finding its course.

In just over one hundred Kalpa Tribulation [an immense cosmic cycle in Buddhist cosmology, often billions of years], the Returning Abyss Primordial Domain underwent a complete metamorphosis, ascending to become a Middle Grade Primordial Domain.

"Success," he murmured.

Eldrin Chen had meticulously observed the entire ascension process of the Returning Abyss Primordial Domain, filling in the final gaps in his understanding of advancing a Middle Grade Primordial Domain. At last, he was confident he could perfect the Path Union Supreme Realm [the pinnacle stage of the Path Union cultivation realm] for the Sacrificial Self Path.

A rare sense of relief washed over him. "The Primordial Domain's ascension is complete," he announced. "The power of the grand formation here has increased significantly. Fellow Daoist, you should now prepare for secluded cultivation to attempt your breakthrough."

A flicker of joy stirred within Primordial Genesis Path Ancestor. He clasped his hands and bowed towards Eldrin Chen. "I am indebted to you, Fellow Daoist, for safeguarding my endeavor."

With those words, Primordial Genesis Path Ancestor strode directly into the grand hall to begin his secluded cultivation, aiming to break through to the Path Union Supreme Realm.

Having tempered his foundation within the Space-Time Crucible and with his Primordial Spirit [the spiritual core of a cultivator] cultivation already at the peak of Half-Step Path Union, Primordial Genesis Path Ancestor already possessed a fifty percent chance of success, further bolstered by the aid of a Path Union Pill.

Furthermore, Eldrin Chen had even laid down an auxiliary breakthrough formation centered on the Heaven and Earth Creation Cauldron, increasing the probability by another twenty percent. Thus, his breakthrough, while momentous, proceeded without major peril.

After several dozen Kalpa Tribulation, Primordial Genesis Path Ancestor successfully completed his cultivation breakthrough, firmly stepping into the Path Union Supreme Realm.

Perhaps due to his exceptionally solid foundation, although he had just broken through to the Path Union Realm, Primordial Genesis Path Ancestor's power far surpassed that of the Nine Dragons' Nest Master, even approaching the level of Blazing Center Supreme.

Such formidable combat strength places him at the level of an established Supreme [a title denoting a cultivator who has reached the pinnacle of a cultivation path].

"Excellent," said Primordial Genesis Path Ancestor [the Ancestor of the Primordial Genesis Path]. "With your breakthrough into the Path Union Realm [the realm where one's cultivation path fully unites with the world's laws], the overall strength of our Returning Abyss Hundred Domains [a collective name for a hundred domains or territories] has increased significantly once more."

Eldrin Chen offered a slight smile. After exchanging congratulations with Primordial Genesis Path Ancestor, he returned to the Returning Abyss Grotto-Heaven [a blessed realm or pocket dimension] to begin refining and perfecting the Sacrificial Self Path [a profound cultivation art focused on self-transcendence through sacrifice].

During the period when Eldrin Chen was perfecting his Sacrificial Self Path, Verdant Consort also utilized the Chaos Grand Formation [a powerful formation harnessing primordial chaos] to achieve her own breakthrough into the Path Union Supreme Realm [the supreme stage of the Path Union realm].

Her foundational potential was even greater. Immediately upon breaking through to the Path Union Supreme Realm, her combat prowess was already comparable to that of an Outer Realm Demon Emperor [a powerful demonic sovereign from beyond this world].

Following Verdant Consort's breakthrough, Exquisite Jiang began to gradually lay plans to seize the Pure Lunar Limitless Great Path [a supreme cultivation art of the pure lunar aspect].

Her path of Pure Yin possessed immense latent potential. It was a fusion of five distinct Great Path [supreme cultivation arts]: the Supreme Lunar [the paramount lunar principle], the Lesser Lunar [a secondary lunar principle], the Primal Shadow [the principle of primordial darkness], the Sixfold Lunar [a sixfold amplified lunar principle], and the Ninefold Lunar [a ninefold amplified lunar principle]. Once all were perfected to the Realm of Chaos [a realm of primordial, undifferentiated power], she might very well glimpse the threshold of the peak Path Union Realm.