Chapter 449: Empowering The Living Shadow
The final upgrade brought his shadow’s capabilities to 80% of his own power, a level that approached true combat partnership rather than simple assistance. Furthermore, the shadow had gained a new effect, an equipment bonus, which meant that the shadow is now able to use the powerful weapons that Arthur can bestow on it.
With enhanced attributes, equipment bonuses, and access to transferred skills or talents, his living shadow would effectively function as a second Arthur operating at slightly reduced capacity.
Arthur examined his remaining resources: 14 skill points remained available for future investments. The next tier would likely require even more points, but the foundation had been established. His living shadow was now ready to serve as both tactical asset and strategic reserve.
Looking down at his own shadow cast by the sunlight, Arthur could sense the dormant intelligence waiting within the darkness at his feet. When activated, this shadow would become a formidable ally capable of independent thought, autonomous action, and lethal effectiveness against even superior-rank opponents.
...
Arthur then activated the skill, feeling the familiar sensation of his mythical ability responding to his will. The shadow beneath his feet began to shift and ripple, as if the darkness itself was coming alive with intelligence.
Slowly, the shadow separated from his body, rising from the ground like liquid darkness given a body to move through.
The process was mesmerising to watch—what had been a simple projection of light and shadow gradually took on three-dimensional substance, becoming a perfect silhouette of Arthur that possessed weight, presence, and intelligence.
Even the Golden Beetle was slightly startled as the shadow figure suddenly materialised before them, its massive eyes tracking the new entity with obvious confusion. After a quick moment of assessment, the beetle’s mental voice carried recognition and understanding.
"Ah, it is your shadow, master," the beetle observed with some shock. "I had heard legends of such abilities, but to witness the manifestation directly is... remarkable. This is truly worthy of your power, master."