SWNOVELXO Chapter 22: Chapter 22: Testing Armor
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The soft hiss of hydraulic pistons echoed through the dimly lit training chamber beneath Raven Estate. Walls lined with reinforced alloy, pressure-calibrated flooring, and holographic interface panels gave the room a sterile, futuristic feel. The cold light of morning hadn't yet touched this underground haven. Here, Asher Raven stood alone, clad in the first completed prototype of his reactive armour—Variant III.
The chest plate shimmered with a pearlescent sheen, its layered nanomesh adapting to each of his subtle movements. Beneath the skin-like outer layer, the core of the suit contained kinetic dispersal channels, reactive layering, and active thermal inhibitors. But it wasn't just the armour that set him apart now.
> [System Active]
> – Daily Sign-In Complete
> – Reward: +1 Defensive Ability Unlocked
> **Ability: Shock Resistance (Passive)** – Incoming electrical shocks are automatically grounded, nullifying paralysis and damage effects.
> [You currently possess:]
> – **Diamond Body** (Advanced-Unique)
> – **Peak-Level Regeneration**
> – **Silent Fall** (Utility) – Allows the user to descend from any height without making noise or taking damage.
> – **Inertial Redirection** (Passive) – Converts kinetic energy from a fall or blow into harmless momentum, dramatically reducing impact.
> – **Shock Resistance** (Passive)
"You know, system why did you not show silent fall and inertial redirection in my status?"
[System response:Sorry Host. I forgot. Teehee~~😅😅]
"Seriously?" Asher muttered. "I didn't expect you of all to forget something. Well let's just leave it at that."
He moved into the centre of the chamber.
"Activate simulation mode: Threat Level 3."
The system responded with a soft pulse.
Turrets emerged from the walls. A barrage of foam-tipped projectiles launched from multiple angles. Asher inhaled slowly, moving with practiced calm. He shifted his weight onto his right leg, let a volley strike him full on—then watched the kinetic dispersal matrix light up across his armour. Energy shimmered and vanished.
He ducked low, leapt over a sweep cannon, and landed on one knee—no noise, no force backlash.
Silent Fall.
Inertial Redirection.
He was becoming untouchable.
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Later that afternoon, Asher sat in the estate's expansive dining room. Long mahogany table, freshly prepared mushroom risotto on his plate, untouched. His parents' chairs were empty.
Cain and Ellen were asleep upstairs with the nanny. The whole estate felt like it echoed.
Asher twirled the risotto slowly with his fork.
"I'm alone again," he muttered.
> [System Response: You are not alone. I am always online.You also have your siblings.]
He chuckled softly. "You're just code and you're right. I have to take care of my siblings.
> [Correction: I am a developed system intelligence with interactive cognition parameters. Not 'just code.']
He leaned back in his seat, staring at the chandelier above.
"Do you ever wonder what it would be like if I didn't have you?"
> [Unknown. Probability suggests high vulnerability, decreased survival rate. Emotional quotient would likely be lower.]
"You think I'm emotional?"
> [In 37% of private monologues, you reference longing, loss, or isolation. That qualifies.]
He smiled despite himself. The system had a point.
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Back in his room, Asher stood before the armour stand. Four versions lined the alcove now, each one an evolution of design. But Variant III—the current build—was the first truly field-ready model.
He tapped the console beside it.
> [Armour Variant III: PHANTOMSKIN - Diamond Phase] – Base Layer: Adaptive Nanomesh – Outer Layer: Thermal Reinforced Diamond-Coated Plates – Impact Rating: Level 5 Ballistic – Special Trait: Biometric Lock - User Specific – Integration: Silent Fall / Inertial Redirection Compatible
"It's good. But there is still room for improvement."
[System response: Agreed. You could try to get in touch with some weapon makers to help you make this armor.]
"Hm, I could try that but I don't think that I should let any stranger know about my projects."
[System response: That is also needed but you should try to have some friends your age or at least one that "was" your age in your previous life.]
"I'll think about it" Asher said pouting.
"Well, let's sleep or at least try to." said Asher.
After that he went to sleep.
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