Chapter 2065 : Primordial Chaos Qi

Especially the Flamesoul Demi-saint, who unleashed a forbidden divine ability to confront the 9 Extremes Demon Dragon head-on. Not only was he severely wounded, but he also suffered from the backlash of the forbidden technique. His strength had been reduced to a mere 30 to 40 percent of its original power.

After a momentary observation, the Feral Dragon Quasi-Emperor knew this battle could no longer be fought.

Enraged, he unleashed his full power once more, disregarding his injuries to erupt with all his combat prowess, and forcefully carved a path through the encirclement.

At the moment of parting, he turned back to glare at Eldrin, roaring with overwhelming killing intent, "Who are you? How dare you ambush me?"

"This Seat is the Returning Abyss."

Eldrin (Person Name) spoke slowly, "Since we've thoroughly offended them, there's no need to conceal my identity any longer."

Moreover, with the presence of the Qiankun Demi-Sage, it would not be difficult for them to deduce his identity.

The face of the Feral Dragon Quasi-Emperor was as cold as glacial ice. In the end, he left behind a single sentence: "Tai Zhuo (Person Name), Gui Xu (Person Name), Ling Huang (Person Name)—this grievance incurred today, I have committed to memory. A day of reckoning shall surely come."

As the words fell, the Quasi-Dragon Emperor had already charged into the heart of the battlefield.

Seeing this, the Flame Soul Saint, the Azure Crane Demi-Saint, and the Myriad Stars Ancestor all promptly followed suit and departed.

Eldrin did not give chase, for even severely wounded, the Half-Step Dragon Emperor could still fight his way out at the risk of aggravating his injuries.

Unless the Chaos Heavenly Emperor were to intervene personally, it would be virtually impossible for anyone to suppress this invincible Half-Saint.

Most critically, Eldrin (Person Name) still had to contend with the Sub-Sage of Heaven and Earth and the Ninefold Demonic Dragon, leaving him with little remaining strength to deal with these other Sub-Sages.

With this thought in mind, Eldrin turned his head and gazed toward the heart of the battlefield.

But lo, the Black Abyss Emperor had already erupted into fierce combat with the 9 Extremes Demon Dragon, while the Cosmos Sublime Sage was momentarily intercepted by the Ancient Spirit Emperor and the Kirin Ancestor.

Boom—

As his thoughts wavered, Eldrin struck without hesitation, wielding the Chaos Heavenly Halberd to slash toward the Elder of Heaven and Earth.

The Heaven and Earth Demi-Sage saw Eldrin charging forth, then abruptly his expression shifted drastically. In an instant, he tore through the void and hurled out the Heaven and Earth Cauldron.

In that instant, he fled in the opposite direction.

Eldrin's expression shifted slightly. Seeing the Qiankun Ding was about to vanish, after a moment's hesitation, he reached out and seized the Qiankun Yasheng.

Almost simultaneously, the Qiankun Ding tore through the void and vanished into the boundless chaos.

"This man is quite decisive."

Eldrin completely suppressed the Elder of Heaven and Earth, secretly storing him away within the Chaos Void-Refining Bottle. He then gazed in the direction where the Heaven-Earth Cauldron had vanished, a trace of regret unavoidably coloring his expression.

This Qiankun Demi-Saint acted with decisive resolve, promptly banishing the Qiankun Cauldron and depriving Eldrin of any opportunity to gather the complete set.

The Kirin Demi-Saint nearby watched this unfold, a trace of concern in his voice as he remarked, “Allowing these sworn enemies to escape today will likely sow the seeds of significant trouble in the future.”

"We cannot keep them here."

Eldrin let out a soft sigh, a trace of resignation coloring his tone as he began to speak.

In truth, it wasn’t that he couldn’t detain a few of them. If he were to activate the Chaos Void-Refining Bottle, it wouldn’t be difficult to hold back 2 or 3 of the Demi-Sages.

However, this would expose the existence of the Chaos Void-Refining Bottle.

In ages past, the Celestial Primordius Dao Ancestor had made no small number of foes. A Chaos Spiritual Artifact possessing spatial attributes was far too precious—if its existence were exposed, it would surely draw the covetous eyes of certain Chaos Heavenly Emperors.

Eldrin (Person Name) had already offended the 3 great Celestial Emperors of the demon race, and it would be unwise to provoke other Chaos Celestial Emperors now.

It was precisely for this reason that Eldrin chose to suppress the Sub-Saint of Qiankun rather than seize the Qiankun Cauldron.

After merging the Qiankun Ding and the Zaohua Ding, there is a possibility of restoring them into a mid-grade Chaos Spiritual Treasure.

However, a mid-grade Chaos Spiritual Treasure was far too precious, incomparable to ordinary Chaos Spiritual Treasures. If word of it were to spread, it would likely bring great calamity upon Eldrin (Person Name).

Fortunately, the Sub-sage of Heaven and Earth had never spread this information.

Because if he dared to leak this information, he would have long been suppressed by the Chaos Heavenly Emperor.

In truth, the shattering of the Qiankun Creation Cauldron (Supreme Treasure) and its division into the Qiankun Cauldron and the Creation Cauldron had always been the most closely guarded secret of the Qiankun Sub-Sage (Cultivator Rank).

Amidst the vast expanse of primordial chaos, none could have foreseen that after the shattering of the Qiankun Creation Cauldron (Cosmic Treasure), it would divide into 2 peerless Primordial Treasures (Cosmic Treasure).

After all, a mid-grade Chaos Spiritual Treasure, if split in 2, should at the very least yield 2 low-grade Chaos Spiritual Treasures.

Eldrin knew this secret only because he had obtained the Cauldron of Creation himself. Otherwise, he would never have imagined that Elder Qiankun's Qiankun Cauldron was actually forged from the Qiankun Cauldron of Creation.

"Though we failed to retain the Qiankun Cauldron (Supreme Treasure), suppressing the Sub-Sage of Qiankun (Cultivator Title) has eliminated a considerable hidden threat."

Eldrin's thoughts drifted, and he couldn't help but let out a soft sigh of relief.

Although the Qian Kun Ding was missing this time, Eldrin possessed the Zao Hua Ding. As his cultivation steadily advanced, he would inevitably be able to locate the Qian Kun Ding's whereabouts.

With the suppression of the Sub-sage of Heaven and Earth, no 1 else would ever learn the secrets of the Cauldron of Creation. Eldrin’s safety would be greatly enhanced.

With this thought in mind, a faint smile touched Eldrin's lips.

Suppressing his distracting thoughts, he swiftly turned his gaze toward the heart of the battlefield. There, under the Black Abyss Emperor’s full-force suppression, the severely wounded 9 Extremes Demon Dragon was already in continuous retreat.

The 9 Extremes Demon Dragon had suffered successive heavy blows, its strength reduced to a mere 30 percent. It stood no match against the Black Abyss Emperor at all.

Seeing this, Eldrin (Person Name) turned to Daoist Tai Zhuo and Great Ancient Spirit Emperor (Person Name) and said, "Fellow Daoists, please keep watch to prevent them from doubling back. We will handle this 9 Extremes Demon Dragon (Magical Beast)."

With that, Eldrin unleashed his full combat prowess, joining forces with the Black Abyss Emperor to suppress the 9-Polar Demon Dragon.

The great battle raged on for an indeterminable span, until the 9-Extremity Devil Dragon could withstand no more. Eldrin and the Black Abyss Emperor ultimately severed every last 1 of its heads.

After slaying the 9-Extremes Demon Dragon, Eldrin finally let out a sigh of relief.

He stored away the 9 Extremes Demon Dragon’s slough, then turned to the assembled crowd and said, “This battle has been arduous for all of you.”

"We are not the ones who have suffered; it is the Quasi-Dragon Emperor Eldrin and the others who have endured the toil."

Elder Taizhuo stroked his long beard, a tinge of melancholy coloring his expression.

Upon hearing this, the others all broke into smiles. Had it not been for the Sub-sage of Heaven and Earth leading the charge in this battle, even if they could have emerged victorious, they would likely have paid a considerable price.

At this thought, the Primordial Spirit Emperor sighed with emotion, "It is also a twist of fate that brought them to this fragmented primordial chaos realm ahead of time."

Elder Taizhuo also nodded, then spoke, "This, perhaps, is the difference in fortune."

"Had we arrived a few dozen kalpas earlier, or a few dozen kalpas later, this opportunity would most likely have been theirs."

Speaking thus, Daoist Taizhuo turned to Eldrin with a smile. "Now that I think of it, had you not chosen to enter seclusion for cultivation, but rushed here hastily 1 100 kalpas earlier..."

"Then the fate that befell them today may very well be our own tribulation."

Eldrin (Person Name) froze for a moment, a pensive expression flickering across his face.

Upon careful reflection, their timing was indeed perfect—not a moment too early nor too late, precisely during that window when the opposing side had just arrived but the conflict had yet to be resolved.

Although the battle between Qian Kunya Sage and the 9-Pole Demonic Dragon had lasted for dozens of kalpas, it was not an exceptionally long time for a Sage.

Their arrival at this precise moment could truly be called a stroke of heaven-defying serendipity.

If they arrived too early, they would likely become pawns for others; if they came too late, this secret realm would have long been stripped bare.

"Is this the power of providence, and the might of virtue?"

Eldrin murmured inwardly, realizing that this was likely the effect of the Primordial Purple Qi.

He cultivated the Primordial Chaos Sutra, and the more Primordial Purple Qi within him, the greater his fortune became.

Moreover, as Eldrin (Person Name), the Dao Ancestor, watched the Path of Self-Sacrifice grow increasingly powerful, his accumulated virtue multiplied.

Eldrin had now condensed a single strand of Chaotic Merit Golden Light. Blessed by its empowerment, his fortune and serendipity far surpassed those of ordinary mortals.

The combined power of fortune and virtue seemed to have orchestrated this opportunity as if preordained by fate itself.

In truth, the Kirin Elder also surmised that Eldrin (Person Name) must have accumulated astonishing virtue and merit to have encountered such a fortuitous opportunity.

He then looked at Eldrin and couldn't help but remark, "It seems we've all benefited from Fellow Daoist of the Returning Abyss's influence this time."

The Primordial Spirit Emperor also smiled faintly, her beautiful eyes glimmering as she remarked, "Fellow Daoist, with such astonishing merit, it seems not impossible for us to truly seize the Primordial Chaos Qi (Cultivation Energy)."

"You flatter me."

Eldrin shook his head, then gazed into the depths of the chaotic secret realm and said, "Let us go and take a look."

With these words, he took the lead and strode toward the center of the Chaos Realm.

At the heart of the Chaotic Realm stood a colossal Chaos Divine Mountain, perpetually inhaling and exhaling primordial chaos energy. Within its depths, infinite Great Dao principles intertwined, weaving a natural defensive formation.

Fortunately, the Divine Mountain was now devoid of any powerful overseers. After expending considerable time and effort, they finally succeeded in activating the Primordial Chaos Formation.

After breaking through the grand formation, the group stepped into the divine mountain and couldn't help but reveal looks of pleasant surprise.

A complete Primordial Chaos Gold Vein.

The Black Abyss Emperor spoke, a trace of astonishment coloring his expression.

The Primordial Chaos Gold is a supreme-grade Chaos wonder. A complete vein of such Chaos Gold ore is virtually priceless.

According to Eldrin's (Person Name) estimation, if this Primordial Chaos Gold were to be mined, it would be sufficient to refine tens of thousands of supreme-grade innate spiritual treasures.

Moreover, within this Primordial Chaos Gold Vein, there exists no shortage of superior-grade Primordial Chaos Gold—a supplementary material of immense significance for advancing artifacts to the Primordial Chaos Treasure tier.

With this thought in mind, Eldrin did not hesitate. He immediately strode deep into the Primordial Chaos Gold Vein, where he finally found 3 pieces of Chaos Gold breathing in and out streams of primordial qi.

Chaos Profound Gold.

Eldrin (Person Name) spoke slowly, a flicker of delight unconsciously surfacing in his gaze.

Chaos Profound Gold is a treasure of primordial chaos, its worth slightly surpassing even that of an innate supreme treasure.

It is said that when a metal-attributed Primordial Chaos Treasure advances to a Chaos Spiritual Treasure, adding this substance can increase the probability of a successful breakthrough by approximately 10 percent.

"What a fine treasure."

Eldrin (Person Name) temporarily stored it away before speaking, "Let's first head to the core of the Divine Mountain to take a look."

"Very well."

Everyone nodded and immediately proceeded to the core of the Divine Mountain.

Upon reaching the heart of the Divine Mountain, Eldrin discovered it was actually a massive Chaos Spring.

Chaotic Spring Eye.

Eldrin (Person Name) spoke slowly, a flicker of longing kindling in his gaze.

But within that Chaos Spring, there swirled an incomparably rich concentration of Chaos Divine Liquid, and at its very core floated a supreme wisp of Chaos Mist.

Primordial Chaos Qi!

The instant he laid eyes on that mass of chaotic mist, Daoist Tai Zhuo’s face lit up with ecstasy beyond measure.

The Primordial Spirit Emperor’s heart first leapt with joy, then a faint shadow of sorrow flickered in his eyes.

"There truly is Chaos Primordial Qi, but alas, only a single wisp remains."

Eldrin murmured softly, a trace of regret flickering across his expression before he swiftly suppressed the thought.

Within ordinary Chaotic Realms, 1 to 9 strands of Primordial Chaos Qi would coalesce, their quantity determined by the realm's expanse.

This place was but a broken shard of the primordial chaos realm. To have encountered even a single wisp of Primordial Chaos Qi was already a stroke of immense fortune for them.

At this thought, Eldrin gathered the Primordial Chaos Qi and presented it to Elder Taizhuo, saying, “Congratulations, Fellow Daoist Taizhuo, for obtaining the opportunity to attain the Dao.”

Elder Taizhuo could scarcely contain the exhilaration surging within his heart. He drew a slow, measured breath, forcibly suppressing his turbulent emotions as he withdrew the Primordial Chaos Primordial Qi. His gaze then settled upon the trio and he spoke.

"Fellow Daoists, rest assured. If this humble elder succeeds in attaining the Dao as the Primordial Celestial Emperor, I shall undoubtedly lend you all a helping hand in the days to come."

The Primordial Spirit Emperor nodded slightly, then said with a smile, "I have waited over a million kalpas—what is 1 more moment?"

Seeing this, Eldrin (Person Name) proceeded to collect the other treasures within the Chaos Spring Eye (Magical Artifact).

Within the Chaos Spring, aside from the Primordial Chaos Qi, there were also 3 astonishingly valuable Chaos Treasures, 12 strands of Chaos Origin, along with 30,000 drops of Chaos Divine Liquid.

Among those 3 Chaos Treasures, there was 1 Chaos Origin Pearl, 1 Chaos Origin Marrow, and 1 piece of Chaos Fire Jade.

The Chaos Origin was self-explanatory; it was a Chaos Treasure of relatively low value. Back in the day, the Undying Elder had also gifted Eldrin (Person Name) a portion.

Chaos God's Elixir is the most basic form of Chaos Treasure, serving as the most commonly used cultivation resource for the Chaos Heavenly Emperor. A single drop is valued at merely 1 top-grade innate spiritual artifact.

However, there were over 30,000 drops of Primordial Chaos Divine Liquid here, and their combined value could rival several Innate Supreme Treasures.

"With the addition of the Chaos Profound Gold, we now possess 4 pieces of immensely valuable Chaos Treasures."

After taking stock of the treasures, Eldrin couldn't help but remark.

Seeing this, Elder Taizhuo quickly spoke up, "This old man has already taken the Primal Chaos Origin Qi, reaping an immense advantage. I shall not intervene in the distribution of the other treasures."

The 3 of them nodded without uttering a word.

Observing the remaining treasures, the Ancient Spirit Emperor spoke, "Without the Primordial Chaos Genesis Qi, the rest shall be distributed according to military merits. What say you?"

Seeing this, Eldrin spoke up, "According to our prior contract, should a Chaos Origin Pearl appear, it must be prioritized for the Black Abyss Emperor. None of us may contend for it."

With these words, Eldrin handed the Chaos Origin Pearl to the Black Abyss Emperor.

The Black Abyss Emperor took hold of the Chaos Origin Pearl, his heart surging with incomparable excitement. He drew a deep breath and declared, "Though the Chaos Origin Pearl is but a wonder of the primordial chaos, its worth rivals that of a Chaos Spiritual Treasure."

"I've already claimed this item at a great advantage, so I shall not partake in the distribution of the remaining treasures."

"Moreover, I owe you a favor. Should I succeed in cultivating the Chaos God Patterns, I shall aid you 3 times unconditionally."

Eldrin and the Primordial Spirit Emperor both nodded in agreement upon hearing this.

Once the Black Abyss Emperor masters the Chaos God Runes, his combat prowess will undoubtedly undergo a significant transformation.

By then, even if he couldn't rival the Heavenly Emperor, he should be capable of facing 5 top-tier Demi-Saints single-handedly.

Such a powerful and invincible Great Emperor offering 3 unconditional acts of assistance would bring immense benefits to their future opportunities of attaining the Dao.

Not to mention, given the Black Abyss Emperor's current potential, he stands a high chance of breaking through to the Chaos Heavenly Emperor.

At this thought, Eldrin gave a slight nod and looked at the Ancient Spirit Emperor, saying, "For the remainder, I shall take 70 percent, while you, my fellow Daoist, may claim 30 percent. What say you?"

"Agreed."

The Ancient Spirit Sovereign nodded. In truth, judging by her contributions, she should only have received around 20 percent. Being allotted 30 percent was already a concession granted by Eldrin (Person Name).

Seeing that the Ancient Spirit Emperor had agreed, Eldrin immediately began distributing the remaining treasures.

After some discussion among the merchants, Eldrin ultimately took away a piece of Chaos Fire Jade, the Chaos Profound Gold, 9 portions of Chaos Origin, along with 20,000 drops of Chaos Divine Liquid.

The remaining Chaos Source Marrow, 3 portions of Chaos Origin, and 10,000 drops of Chaos Divine Liquid were all bestowed upon the Ancient Spirit Sovereign.

As for the remains of the 9-Pole Demonic Dragon and the 9 innate supreme treasures, Eldrin did not claim them all for himself.

He took away the complete set of the 9 Dragons' Treasure, while the body of the Ninefold Demonic Dragon was divided among the Primordial Spirit Emperor.

Thus, both parties profited handsomely, reaping exceptionally bountiful gains.

After dividing the treasures, Eldrin turned to Daoist Taizhuo and asked, "Fellow Daoist, where do you plan to undergo your breakthrough?"

Elder Taizhuo pondered briefly before speaking, "I had originally intended to attempt another breakthrough, but now that this location has been exposed, that plan can no longer come to fruition."

"Now it seems my only recourse is to return to the 7 Domains of Southern Abyss and make my breakthrough within the 3 Extremes Primordial Domain."

Eldrin nodded and said, "As the Heaven-Appointed Divine Sovereign of the 3-Pole Primal Domain, you are naturally protected by its heavenly laws. Returning there to break through would indeed be more secure."

"However, when making your breakthrough, you'll still need to make arrangements with the 3 Great Celestial Courts."

Elder Taizhuo nodded, then declared, "The enmity between the demon race and myself is irreconcilable. I would never seek reconciliation."

"The Human Race has maintained amicable relations with our 100 Clans of the Celestials for many years. Fellow Daoist Taiyuan will surely lend me a hand, I presume."

"As for the divine race, I can offer a personal favor as compensation in exchange for their protection, though we still need an intermediary to facilitate the connection."

Eldrin nodded slightly before speaking, "I share an ancient covenant with the 2 Divine Emperors, and our personal rapport is quite favorable. Leave this matter to my arrangements."

"Then I thank you."

The Daoist Priest Tai Zhuo felt a surge of delight, unable to resist grasping Eldrin's palm.

Eldrin smiled faintly before speaking. "Given the depth of our connection, there's no need for such formality between us."

"This is no place to linger, let us return to the Primal Immortal Realm first."

The 3 of them nodded in unison before promptly departing from the fragmented Chaos Realm, heading straight for the 7 Domains of the Southern Abyss.

This time, the 4 of them made no attempt to conceal their movements. Instead, they traveled swiftly together toward the Southern Abyss 7 Domains, returning to the Tri-Polar Primordial Domain after just a few kalpas.

After returning to the Primordial Immortal Realm, the group escorted Grandmaster Taizhuo back to the Qilin Ancient Domain.

Before parting, Eldrin asked Elder Taizhuo, "When do you plan to begin your breakthrough, fellow Daoist?"

Elder Taizhuo pondered briefly, his expression grave as he replied, "I still need to make some additional preparations. Shall we reconvene after approximately 1 100 kalpas?"

Eldrin gave a slight nod and said, "Then I shall first contact the 2 Divine Emperors. If they are willing to assist, you may send your avatar to discuss the details with them personally."

Chapter 1 The mountain peaks pierced the clouds like jagged swords, veiled in ethereal mists that swirled with spiritual energy. Here, atop the Celestial Summit, a lone figure sat cross-legged upon a weathered stone, his robes fluttering silently in the thin, crisp air. Lin Feng's eyes were closed, his breathing a slow, rhythmic tide as he guided the ambient energy through his meridians. For 3 years, he had remained in this secluded spot, honing his cultivation base. Today, he aimed to break through to the next stage of the Profound Heaven Art. A low hum resonated from within him, growing steadily in intensity. The spiritual energy around him began to stir, coalescing into visible strands of silver and gold light that snaked towards his body, seeping into his pores. The air crackled with power. Suddenly, his eyes snapped open, flashing with a brilliant light that seemed to pierce through the very mist. A wave of immense pressure erupted from his core, causing the nearby stones to tremble. "It is time," he whispered, his voice calm yet carrying an undeniable edge. He rose to his feet in 1 fluid motion. From within his spatial ring, he retrieved a small, porcelain vial. Unstopping it, he tipped a single, iridescent pill into his palm—the Spirit Convergence Pill. Without hesitation, he swallowed it. A torrent of pure, violent energy exploded within his dantian. He gritted his teeth, his muscles taut as he wrestled control over the rampaging force. He guided it, refined it, forcing it to submit to his will and reinforce his foundations. Hours passed. The chaotic energy gradually subsided, settling into a deep, tranquil pool of power within him. He had succeeded. He had advanced to the Fourth Layer of the Profound Heaven Art. A faint, satisfied smile touched his lips. He could feel his strength had multiplied. His spiritual sense now reached farther, his control over energy was more precise. His moment of triumph was short-lived. A sharp, discordant laugh echoed from the edge of the clearing. "Well, well. Look what we have here. If it isn't the esteemed Junior Brother Lin." 3 figures emerged from the mist, their grey outer disciple robes marking their status. The 1 in the lead, a young man with a hawk-like nose and a sneer, was Eldrin (Person Name). In his hand, he held a longsword that glowed with a faint crimson light—the Li Fire Sword of the Returning Abyss (Magic Treasure). Lin Feng's expression cooled. "Eldrin. What do you want?" "What do I want?" Eldrin chuckled, his eyes glinting with malice. "You've been hogging this prime cultivation spot for far too long. It's time you shared. Or better yet... vacated it permanently. Hand over the spirit stones and pills you've saved up, and maybe I'll let you leave with just a broken leg." Lin Feng's gaze swept over the trio. Eldrin was at the Third Layer of Qi Condensation, while his 2 lackeys were at the Second. A week ago, they would have been a significant threat. Now... "You overestimate yourself," Lin Feng said, his voice flat. "Arrogant fool!" Eldrin's sneer widened. "Attack!" The 2 lackeys lunged forward, their own crude swords gleaming. Lin Feng didn't even bother to draw a weapon. He simply took a step forward, his movement a blur. *Whoosh!* He appeared directly in front of the first disciple. His palm, imbued with the newly consolidated power of the Fourth Layer, struck the man's chest. There was a sickening crunch of bone, and the disciple was flung backward like a ragdoll, crashing into a tree and slumping to the ground, unconscious. The second disciple froze mid-lunge, his eyes wide with terror. Lin Feng didn't give him a chance to react. A flick of his wrist, and a surge of spiritual energy shot out, striking the man's wrist and sending his sword clattering to the ground. The disciple cried out, clutching his broken hand. Eldrin's face paled. "The Fourth Layer?! Impossible! How...?" "Your information is outdated," Lin Feng said, finally turning his full attention to Eldrin. The pressure emanating from him was now suffocating. Eldrin swallowed hard, gripping the Li Fire Sword of the Returning Abyss (Magic Treasure) tighter. "So what if you've broken through? I have a magic treasure!" He channeled his spiritual power into the sword. The crimson glow intensified, and a wave of scorching heat washed over the clearing. With a roar, he swung the blade, sending a crescent of fire screaming towards Lin Feng. Lin Feng stood his ground. He raised his hand, palm open. Instead of evading, he met the fiery arc head-on. A shield of condensed azure energy materialized before him. *BOOM!* The fire crescent shattered against the shield, dissipating into harmless sparks. The azure shield didn't even flicker. Eldrin stared, dumbfounded. "How...?" Before he could finish, Lin Feng vanished. He reappeared right beside Eldrin, his hand closing around the wrist holding the sword. A sharp twist, and the Li Fire Sword of the Returning Abyss (Magic Treasure) clattered to the stone. Eldrin screamed in pain and shock. "Relying on a treasure is a sign of a weak foundation," Lin Feng said coldly, his gaze boring into Eldrin's terrified eyes. "You neglected your own cultivation. This is the result." He released Eldrin's wrist with a shove. "Take your friends and get out of my sight. If I see you near my cultivation spot again, the consequences will be far more severe." Eldrin scrambled backward, clutching his injured wrist, his face a mask of humiliation and fear. He didn't dare retrieve his magic treasure. He simply nodded frantically, grabbed 1 of his groaning lackeys, and fled into the mist with the other, disappearing as quickly as they had come. Silence returned to the mountaintop. Lin Feng glanced at the discarded Li Fire Sword of the Returning Abyss (Magic Treasure) but made no move to pick it up. Such a crude artifact was beneath him now. He looked up towards the highest peak, where the inner sect disciples and elders resided. His journey had only just begun. Countless challenges and longer paths of cultivation still lay ahead. But for now, he had taken a firm step forward on his path to immortality.