Chapter 235: The System’s Secret Gift
As the envoys departed and Amber Heavens returned to its peaceful rhythm, Lyrus retreated to the Sanctum of Eternity, seeking the solace of his personal chamber. The system, ever present in his mind, began to hum with an unusual intensity. Its presence was different this time—stronger, more deliberate.
Sitting in quiet meditation, Lyrus focused his thoughts on the system, seeking answers. Suddenly, the familiar chime of a System Notification resonated within him.
[System Notification: Hidden Power Unlocked.]
[New Powers Acquired: Veil Genesis, Nexus Manifestation, and Silent Dominion.]
The descriptions unfolded in his mind:
• Veil Genesis: The ability to create impenetrable dimensional barriers, isolating or protecting entire regions from external threats.
• Nexus Manifestation: The power to summon Etherium-based constructs that act as tools, weapons, or entities capable of autonomous action.
• Silent Dominion: A passive ability that veiled Lyrus' most potent powers from all detection, even to those closest to him, while amplifying their effectiveness.
These powers, hidden even from his closest allies, gave Lyrus an unmatched advantage. The empire would remain unaware of their true extent, preserving the mystery and fear surrounding him.
A faint smile crossed Lyrus' lips as he stood. "The system never ceases to surprise me. These powers will serve Amber Heavens in ways no one can anticipate."
Eager to explore his new abilities, Lyrus activated Veil Genesis for the first time. The system guided him to a barren stretch of land on the empire's northern border, a location ideal for testing the power without drawing attention.
Standing at the center of the field, Lyrus raised his hand, and the air around him began to shimmer. A translucent, otherworldly barrier emerged, expanding outward until it encompassed the entire region. The Veil hummed with energy, its surface rippling like water yet impenetrable to the touch.
Stepping back, Lyrus willed the Veil to respond to different scenarios. He tested its defensive capabilities by summoning firestorms and magical attacks within the barrier, only to watch as they dissipated harmlessly against the Veil's surface. He then commanded it to isolate sound, light, and even Etherium energy, creating a space that was completely cut off from the outside world.
The possibilities were endless. With Veil Genesis, Lyrus could protect key regions, conceal sensitive projects, or trap enemies in inescapable dimensions.
Returning to the Sanctum, Lyrus made a mental note to deploy this power strategically, ensuring no one would suspect its origin. "The strength of Amber Heavens will never falter," he murmured. "Not while I hold this power."
The next power, Nexus Manifestation, intrigued Lyrus. Summoning the system's interface, he reviewed its functions: the ability to create Etherium constructs that could act as soldiers, tools, or even guardians for the empire.
In the privacy of his personal training ground, Lyrus extended his hand, focusing on the energy coursing through him. A moment later, a glowing construct materialized before him—a towering humanoid figure composed entirely of shimmering Etherium. The construct bowed, awaiting Lyrus' command.
"Defend," Lyrus instructed.
The construct immediately moved into a defensive stance, its form adapting to shield against incoming attacks. Lyrus summoned several more constructs, testing their coordination and adaptability. They moved as a single unit, reacting to his unspoken commands with flawless precision.
But the potential of Nexus Manifestation didn't end with soldiers. Lyrus experimented further, creating tools that could assist with construction, exploration, and even farming. The constructs required no rest, no sustenance, and no oversight—a perfect workforce for expanding Amber Heavens.
Satisfied, Lyrus deactivated the constructs, allowing them to dissolve back into Etherium energy. "A silent army, untraceable and incorruptible," he mused. "This will be Amber Heavens' hidden strength."
The most enigmatic of his new powers, Silent Dominion, intrigued Lyrus the most. It was a passive ability, one that veiled the full extent of his strength from anyone, including his closest allies. Even Lucidus, whose loyalty was absolute, would be unaware of its existence.
Testing its effects, Lyrus activated the ability. Immediately, he felt a shift in his presence—his aura diminished, appearing less threatening to those around him. Yet, in reality, his strength had multiplied. Any power he used under the veil of Silent Dominion would be exponentially more effective.
To test its limits, Lyrus traveled to the empire's farthest outpost, where a group of recruits was training. Disguising his presence, he observed the soldiers, blending seamlessly into the background. Using Silent Dominion, he enhanced their movements subtly, their strikes becoming faster, their coordination flawless. None of them realized his influence.
Returning to the Sanctum, Lyrus contemplated the implications of this power. "They will see only what I wish them to see," he thought. "And when the time comes, my full strength will remain a secret weapon, one no enemy can anticipate."
Lucidus entered the chamber, sensing Lyrus' contemplative mood. "Master, the empire grows stronger each day. Your guidance is unmatched."
Lyrus gave a faint smile. "It is not guidance alone, Lucidus. It is preparation. The future demands more than strength—it demands precision."
With his new abilities hidden from all, Lyrus prepared to lead Amber Heavens into its next phase of dominance. The system's gifts remained his secret, a silent force that would ensure the empire's place as an unshakable power in the world.
Weekly Power Status
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