With the Iron Dominion subdued, Lyrus turned his attention to the Coalite Syndicate. This shadowy organization had long thrived on manipulation and bloodshed. They had sent assassins to Amber Heavens, plotted invasions, and profited from the misery of others. Lyrus had no patience for their games.
The Syndicate's headquarters lay hidden in a sprawling maze of warehouses and underground chambers. Yet, the moment Lyrus and Lucidus arrived in the vicinity, the Syndicate's operatives felt the weight of his power. Shadows seemed to stretch unnaturally, and a suffocating pressure settled over the district.
"Master," Lucidus said, gesturing toward the panicked movement ahead. "They scatter like rats. Shall I secure their leaders?"
"No need," Lyrus replied, his voice calm but laced with authority. "They will come to me."
As if summoned by an unseen force, the Syndicate's most powerful figures emerged from the shadows, their once-confident strides faltering as they approached. One by one, they dropped to their knees, unable to meet Lyrus' gaze. Even the most hardened assassins—men and women who had killed without remorse—now trembled like children before him.
A wiry man with a scarred face crawled forward, desperation in his voice. "Lord of Amber Heavens, spare us! We were fools to defy you. We will do anything you command."
Lyrus stepped closer, his presence alone making the man's breath hitch. "Your crimes have left countless lives shattered. You built your power on suffering and greed. Why should I allow you to continue?"
Another Syndicate leader, a woman draped in black, clutched the hem of his cloak. "Please, we can change! We can use our networks to serve you. Spare us, and we will dedicate ourselves to Amber Heavens!"
Lucidus watched the scene with detached amusement. "Master Lyrus, it seems their survival instinct has awakened."
Lyrus regarded them with cold indifference. "You will disband the Syndicate immediately. Your wealth will be redistributed to the regions you have exploited. Any resistance will be met with finality."
The leaders groveled, swearing their obedience. As Lyrus departed, the weight of his words lingered, ensuring that the Syndicate's reign of terror ended that day.