The Death Ruler was one of Phanes's four shadow incarnations. His authority could already draw power from the deaths of living beings, let alone the fall of a supreme being like Nibelung, which sent his strength soaring far beyond the other three Sustainers of Heavenly Principles.
Thus, the greatest victor of this battle was actually the Death Ruler. Through Nibelung's obsession at the moment of death, he also realized how terrifyingly forbidden knowledge could amplify his power.
Although the four of them were external incarnations formed by Phanes, Phanes held absolute control over them, and their lives rested entirely on a single thought from him.
But time could change many things, and even the Sustainers of Heavenly Principles were no exception. They, too, were powerful beings with their own consciousness and dignity. What was the point of remaining forever at someone else's mercy?
After this battle, the Death Ruler began entertaining other ideas about forbidden knowledge. However, if he came into contact with it now, Phanes would certainly notice.
If Phanes learned that he had disobeyed his orders, he would realize that the Death Ruler was no longer the shadow incarnation who obeyed his every command. He would certainly erase him without mercy, then form a new Death Ruler.
Therefore, he had to bide his time for now. Besides, forbidden knowledge was indeed extremely dangerous. Recklessly coming into contact with it might cause other harm. At a time like this, he needed someone else to test the waters for him.
Just then, something happened that the Death Ruler considered a perfect opportunity.
After Phanes came to rule the world of Teyvat, he established the rightful law laid down by High Heaven: heaven and earth were distinct. Only heaven could govern the earth; those below could not overstep their bounds and