The battlefield lay quiet in the aftermath of Amber Heavens' overwhelming defense. News of the coalition's crushing defeat spread quickly, sowing fear among those who had dared to challenge Lyrus' kingdom. But Lyrus knew this wasn't enough. To ensure lasting peace, he needed to confront the Iron Dominion and the Coalite Syndicate directly. Not with armies, but with his presence—an unspoken declaration of Amber Heavens' supremacy.
Accompanied only by Lucidus, his head butler, Lyrus set out for the Iron Dominion. His arrival was unannounced, yet the mere presence of his power caused the air to grow heavy, a tangible reminder of his demigod-like strength. As he approached the Dominion's capital, soldiers stationed at the gates fell to their knees, unable to bear the weight of his aura. Some dropped their weapons, trembling, while others whispered prayers, mistaking him for a vengeful deity.
Lucidus, ever poised, walked a step behind, his silver eyes scanning for any sign of resistance. "Master Lyrus," he said calmly, "their fear is absolute. You may proceed as you see fit."
Lyrus entered the grand hall of the Dominion's ruling council, where its lords and generals gathered in secret to discuss their next moves. The moment he stepped inside, the room fell silent. Chairs creaked as men and women collapsed to their knees, heads bowed low. One general, braver than the rest, attempted to speak but faltered, his voice shaking. "P-please, my lord, spare us. We were… misled."
Lyrus' gaze swept over them, his voice low but powerful. "You chose greed and violence over reason. You sought to crush innocent lives for your gain. What mercy do you deserve?"
One of the lords began to weep, his forehead pressed to the floor. "We were wrong! Forgive us! We will never challenge Amber Heavens again!"
Lucidus stepped forward, his tone cold and precise. "Words of repentance are easy. Prove your loyalty to peace by dismantling your war machine and pledging your resources to aid the lands you've harmed."
The lords nodded frantically, swearing oaths of submission. Lyrus left the hall without another word, knowing their terror would ensure compliance. Amber Heavens' dominance was now burned into their hearts.