Dimensional Keeper: All My Skills Are at Level 100 Chapter 1637 Second Trial
Previously on Dimensional Keeper: All My Skills Are at Level 100...
Upon returning to the mansion utilized by the Black Dragon Clan members, Max immediately sought out Lady Virelia to assure her of his well-being. After successfully easing her concerns, he discreetly retreated to his chamber, his outward demeanor placid while his thoughts were already set on the subsequent course of action.
The instant he entered his room, no time was squandered. His form became a blur, vanishing as he transitioned into his Dimension of Time. Within this secluded environment, where each passing moment expanded vastly compared to the external world, Max unsheathed his sword and commenced practicing the Saint Origin Sword Art.
Time advanced in profound silence.
Repetition after repetition, he executed the same motions, each thrust imbued with a more profound intention than the last. The vivid recollection of the mountain being cleaved with such precision that even he had missed its execution lingered persistently in his mind.
He endeavored to recapture that precise sensation, striving to comprehend the astonishing subtlety concealed within the sword art. At times, his own conceptual understanding resisted, creating a faint dissonance with the technique; nevertheless, Max persisted. He compelled them into synthesis, meticulously honing his control with unwavering concentration.
Hours dissipated like wisps of smoke within that temporal dimension.
By the time the six hours allotted for rest in the outside world concluded, Max finally lowered his blade. A subtle keenness persisted in his eyes as he emerged from the Dimension of Time, rejoining his chamber.
Shortly thereafter, he made his way back to the central plaza of the Violet Star Palace.
The expansive grounds were already populated by disciples from various factions, their hushed conversations mirroring the building anticipation that permeated the atmosphere. The reverberations from the preceding trial still echoed in their thoughts, particularly the astonishing outcome that had positioned Max at the pinnacle.
At that precise moment, a formidable aura emanated from above.
Elder Cael materialized in the sky, his imposing figure surveying the assembled paragons with a sweeping gaze. The low hum of conversation in the plaza ceased abruptly as all attention pivoted towards him.
"The initial trial has drawn to a close," Elder Cael announced, his voice steady yet resonating effortlessly across the entire plaza. "What you have demonstrated thus far represents merely the bedrock of your capabilities. The genuine ordeal commences presently."
He paused momentarily, allowing his pronouncement to fully register before proceeding.
"The second trial bears the designation of the Heavenly Reflection Arena."
A subtle tremor rippled through the assembly upon hearing the unfamiliar appellation.
"Within this trial, each of you shall confront an echo of yourselves," Elder Cael elucidated with composure. "This reflection is not merely an imitation of your physical form. It will embody your current cultivation, command your techniques, and even replicate your combat proclivities."
Several visages shifted instantaneously. Some adopted a look of gravity, while others furrowed their brows.
"You will not be permitted to depend solely on fortuitous chance or unadulterated brute strength," he elucidated further. "To successfully navigate this trial, you must transcend your present self. You are required to either vanquish your reflection or withstand its onslaught for a predetermined duration."
His gaze intensified slightly.
"However, comprehend this with absolute clarity. Your reflection will not exercise restraint. It will engage with the identical fervor you would employ in a life-or-death confrontation. Should your resolve falter, you will face disqualification."
A brief interval of quietude ensued his declaration.
"The stipulations are straightforward," Elder Cael stated. "You will enter sequentially. Upon entry, you shall be conveyed to your individual combat arena. The trial concludes upon achieving victory, reaching the temporal limit, or succumbing to unconsciousness. Your performance will be assessed based on tactical efficacy, control, and adaptability."
He modestly elevated his hand, and a sequence of luminous gateways materialized throughout the plaza, each emitting a faint, distorted luminescence akin to a distorted visage of the individuals standing proximate to them.
"Advance when your designation is proclaimed."
The inaugural name resonated across the plaza.
Without a flicker of hesitation, a disciple detached himself from the throng. His expression was taut, yet resolute as he approached one of the portals. For a fleeting instant, he halted before it, drew a deep inhalation, and then penetrated its threshold. His figure instantaneously dematerialized.
Soon thereafter, the second appellation was announced.
Another disciple proceeded forward, his gait measured but unwavering. He cast a solitary glance at the assembled peers before entering his allocated portal.
Succession after succession, the disciples commenced their movement.
Some advanced with an air of self-assurance, their countenances serene as though they had long since fortified themselves for such a trial. Others exhibited a moment of indecision before proceeding, their eyes clouded with caution. A select few clenched their fists with considerable force, compelling themselves onward despite the palpable pressure.
The portals continued their intermittent luminescence as each participant was subsumed within them.
Max remained stationary and composed amidst the gathering, his gaze anchored upon the illuminated entrances before him. His expression betrayed no alteration, yet a subtle sharpness flickered within his eyes.
Confronting one's own essence.
A trial of this nature transcended mere physical prowess.
It was a crucible for shattering personal limitations.
Shortly after the initial group of competitors vanished through the portals, the sky above the plaza started to pulse with a gentle, undulating radiance. A colossal array silently engaged, and instantaneously, immense, semi-transparent displays unfurled in the sky, stretching across the heavens as if a secondary dimension had materialized. Each display showcased a distinct combat zone. Within every zone, a disciple stood poised against an identical replica of themselves. A collective gasp of amazement rippled through the onlookers as innumerable duels commenced simultaneously. On one screen, two identical combatants engaged with raw power, their fists impacting repeatedly, causing the very ground beneath them to fracture. On another, a pair of sword masters moved with flawless synchronization, each attack a perfect echo, every footstep foreseen before it even occurred. Battles erupted, drenched in roaring infernos that engulfed vast portions of the arena, while others were dominated by piercing bolts of lightning, slashing through the firmament like celestial retribution. An undeniable, weighty reality permeated every single confrontation. Neither side possessed an edge. For the simple reason that overcoming oneself proved exceptionally difficult. The tension intensified palpably with every passing moment, as more disciples found themselves forced back by their mirrored opponents, their countenances darkening under the unyielding duress.