Dimensional Keeper: All My Skills Are at Level 100 Chapter 1610 Returning to Black Dragon Clan!

Max could only offer a self-deprecating smile. Truthfully, the outcome had surprised even him. Having absorbed the remains of an ancient black dragon, he had anticipated that the vast majority of the captured essence would be dedicated to fortifying his bloodline, propelling the Black Dragon Chaotic Bloodline to its ultimate form. However, contrary to his expectations, after the bloodline achieved its metamorphosis, the residual power surged through his entire being, catapulting his cultivation from the fifth level of the Law Awakening Realm directly to the eighth. Even reflecting on it now, the extent of this advancement was nothing short of astonishing.

Lucia, observing his expression, narrowed her eyes subtly. She sensed an underlying mystery in the entire affair. While she was aware Max had ventured into Dragon Death Valley and emerged more potent, the sheer magnitude of his growth was exceedingly difficult to reconcile. A three-level leap at his current stage, coupled with the profound aura he now exuded, unequivocally indicated he had gained far more than he was letting on. Nevertheless, she chose not to probe further. Everyone harbored secrets, and Max seemed to possess more than his fair share. Instead, she offered him a look laden with unspoken understanding. "You truly are beyond measure."

Max chuckled softly. "I shall interpret that as a compliment."

"You ought to," she retorted.

A brief silence followed before Max posed the question that now held his immediate attention. "So, when are we scheduled to depart for Violet Star Palace for this Smelting Trial?"

Lucia answered without missing a beat. "In one week." She leaned back, crossing her arms. "The clan requires time to assemble the chosen participants, procure necessary provisions, and finalize the travel arrangements. Violet Star Palace is not a minor affiliated force; even with advanced star travel, reaching their domain necessitates meticulous planning."

Max nodded with measured composure. "One week..." That duration would be sufficient to solidify his recent advancements, familiarize himself with his newfound bloodline abilities, and possibly undertake a few additional preparations before embarking on another significant opportunity.

Lucia glanced at him, a smirk playing on her lips. "Don't tell me you're already strategizing ways to stir up trouble there."

Max gazed out at the swirling nebulae visible through the shuttle's viewport, a faint smile gracing his lips. "I'm planning how to become stronger."

Lucia let out a soft sigh. "That answer somehow fills me with even greater apprehension."

----

Several hours onward, having traversed innumerable streams of starlight and navigated several transit routes across the void, the star shuttle finally breached the territorial boundaries of the Verdant Sky Realm. The instant they crossed the threshold, the atmospheric quality outside the vessel underwent a subtle yet distinct transformation. The celestial bodies here appeared more luminous, and the ambient spiritual currents were demonstrably richer compared to the vicinity of Orion.

Majestic celestial islands drifted serenely in the distance, interconnected by luminous pathways that flowed through the cosmic expanse like living currents. Ancient mountain ranges hovered suspended above oceans of clouds, while colossal beasts were occasionally observed traversing between different realms with the same effortless grace as birds in flight. Even the very air seemed imbued with a sense of ancient prosperity and establishment. This was not a realm defined by chaotic warfare like Orion; rather, it was a true domain meticulously shaped and governed by formidable powers across immeasurable epochs.

Lucia observed the passing panorama with her characteristic placidity, while Max took in the spectacle with quiet fascination. "The Verdant Sky Realm..." he murmured. In contrast to many of the places he had recently encountered, this realm projected an aura of both profound order and formidable strength.

The shuttle continued its descent, piercing through layers of dense cloud cover and meticulously layered defensive formations. Brilliant runes flared to life across the hull’s surface as it passed through multiple checkpoints, confirming its identification and granting it passage. A few minutes later, the vessel oriented itself downward, heading toward a secluded region nestled amidst colossal, dark mountain peaks. This area was deliberately isolated from the realm’s more active zones, encircled by towering summits that curved inward, forming a natural bulwark. Luxuriant forests blanketed the lower slopes, and an ethereal dark mist drifted languidly between the sheer cliffs. Valleys channeled streams saturated with potent spiritual energy, while ancient formations, subtly shimmering across the landscape, served to obscure the region from casual observation.

Then, Max’s gaze fell upon it. The Black Dragon Palace. It resided deep within the mountain basin, akin to a silent, sovereign fortress. Its architecture, fashioned from dark stone and obsidian-like metal, comprised grand, multi-tiered halls and imposing spires sculpted with distinctly draconic motifs. Gargantuan statues of black dragons were entwined around colossal pillars, and banners emblazoned with the clan’s insignia rippled in the breeze. The palace eschewed the ostentatious displays of wealth found in some divine sects, instead exuding an overwhelming sense of power, unwavering discipline, and venerable pride.

The star shuttle executed a slow descent, eventually touching down upon a broad, stone-paved platform situated near the outer perimeter of the palace grounds. A deep, resonant hum gradually subsided as the vessel came to a complete halt. The main hatch irised open.

Max stepped out first, immediately feeling the palpable density of the ambient energy enveloping the area against his skin. It was manifold times more concentrated than in common locales and proved exceptionally conducive to cultivation, a stark contrast to the volatile energies prevalent in Orion. He surveyed the secluded mountain basin, finding it devoid of immediate activity.

Lucia emerged at his side, a slight stretch gracing her movements.

"We've returned."

Max cast another look toward the imposing Black Dragon Palace.

A subtle smile curved his lips.

"And precisely on time."

Only one week remained until the commencement of the Smelting Trial.

"Before you go anywhere else, I believe you should see to Aunt Virelia," Lucia suggested as they approached the landing platform. "She must have been quite concerned about you during your absence."

Max gave a nod in agreement.

That had indeed been his intention. Regardless of the fortunate opportunities he had grasped elsewhere, prioritizing a reunion with his master upon returning was only natural. Lady Virelia had offered him unwavering support from the outset, and after all that transpired on Orion, she would undoubtedly seek an explanation.

Just as Max prepared to depart, Lucia's voice halted him.

"Wait."

He turned back to face her.

With her arms crossed, Lucia met his gaze directly.

"You ought to release Isabella first."

Max's eyes widened briefly before he immediately grasped her meaning.

Lucia continued, her tone earnest and practical.

"She is among the most formidable young prodigies on our side and will almost certainly be among those selected to journey to Violet Star Palace for the Smelting Trial. With only seven days remaining, any further delay in her seclusion will cost her precious time for preparation."

Her gaze sharpened slightly.

"Furthermore, if she discovers you confined her within your personal dimension while everyone else was honing their skills, she might very well make an attempt on your life herself."

Max let out a soft cough.

"That is indeed a distinct possibility."

He couldn't dispute the wisdom of her words.

The Smelting Trial was an event that would convene the elite talents from numerous influential factions. Even for someone as gifted as Isabella, venturing into such a prestigious competition without adequate preparation would be an act of folly.