Chapter 7: Creating A False Sun

The feline-like creature sniffs the air, its translucent ears flicking as it assesses Azure's outstretched hand. Though it doesn't move closer, it remains still, unafraid, simply observing the giant who towers over its world.

"I wonder what makes you different from the others," Azure murmurs to himself, captivated by the creature's composure.

Azure nods, still watching the small creature. "It's like it knows I'm not here to hurt it."

"Indeed," Nexus agrees. "Such advancements in behavior suggest that this creature may be among the first to evolve higher intelligence, a crucial step towards becoming a tier-1 life form."

Azure's eyes light up at the thought. "So, this little guy could be the key to the next stage of evolution for this world?"

"It is possible, Host," Nexus replies. "Given time, this creature may lead its species to greater adaptation and survival on land."

As he continues to observe, a deep sense of responsibility settles over him. This world, though small, is filled with potential, and he realizes that his role as its creator is more important than ever. If these creatures are to evolve and thrive, he must nurture and protect them.

The creature twitches its nose once more before running away, disappearing into the foliage with a grace that belies its size. Azure watches it go, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. The future of this world is unfolding right before his eyes, and he can't wait to see where it leads.

As Azure stands, his mind races, reflecting on the delicate ecosystem unfolding before him. Suddenly, a thought strikes him, and he glances up at the endless, translucent sky surrounding the miniature world.

"Wait a minute, Nexus," Azure says, his brow furrowing. "When we accelerate time like this, does that mean millions of years are passing with constant daylight, and then millions more in total darkness?"

There's a brief pause before Nexus responds. "Yes, Host, that is correct."

Azure's concern deepens. "Isn't that bad for them? A world that never experiences natural cycles of day and night? How can life evolve properly like that?"

Nexus's voice remains calm, but thoughtful. "For now, Host, it is not a major issue. These creatures are still in the early stages of their evolution, and the artificial conditions are sufficient for now. However…" Nexus pauses slightly, as if processing further information. "In a few days of real-time, which would equate to millions of years for the creatures, some creatures might need continuous day or night cycles."

Azure folds his arms, looking up at the sky again. "So, we'll need something like a sun, right? Something to give them a natural rhythm, a day-night cycle?"

"Indeed, Host," Nexus confirms. "A proper source of light and darkness will allow for more natural environmental conditions. As the creatures progress, they will require these cycles for optimal growth, adaptation, and rest."

Azure begins pacing, his mind working quickly. "What kind of sun do we need? Can we create one, or is there something we can use?"

Nexus answers smoothly. "We can either create an artificial light source within the dome or adapt an external mechanism to provide a rotating day-night cycle. The choice is yours, Host."

Azure paces on the balcony, his eyes wandering as he tries to think of a solution. Suddenly, his gaze falls on an old lamp near the edge of the railing, its warm light barely flickering to life in the evening breeze. An idea strikes him, although he's not sure if it's the best one.

"Nexus," Azure says, stopping in his tracks. "What about a lamp? Could we use the light from that old thing?" He gestures toward the lamp, still unsure. "You know, make it so twelve hours pass in the mini world, and then adjust the light to resemble moonlight? I mean, you can do all sorts of things, right?"

He scratches the back of his head, realizing how simple his idea sounds in comparison to Nexus's advanced capabilities. But he's always been more of a hands-on thinker than a genius strategist.

There's a moment of silence before Nexus responds. "It should be possible, Host," Nexus says, sounding almost amused. "I would need to block the sunlight from the outside world, allowing only the lamp's light to pass through the dome. This way, even if it's morning in your world, it can be night in the miniature world. I can easily manage the transition between day and night using the lamp as a source of light."

Azure blinks, surprised that it's actually a workable plan. "Wait, seriously? Just like that?"

"Yes, Host. The lamp can serve as a manageable proxy for the day-night cycle within the mini world," Nexus confirms.

Nexus replies. "Shall I proceed with implementing the lamp-based day-night cycle?"

Azure looks at the old lamp again, now feeling a strange fondness for the object. "Yeah, let's go for it. It's a little weird, but if it works, that's all that matters."

"As you wish," Nexus responds. "I will adjust the light accordingly and ensure that a day and night cycle is maintained. You will notice changes soon."

He glances at the miniature world below, imagining the creatures adapting to a more natural rhythm of life. It's a small step, but it feels like progress.

"Well, I guess I'll just keep watching over them," Azure says, more to himself than to Nexus. "Let's see how this little world grows with a proper day and night."

He settles back onto the balcony, his eyes drifting between the old lamp and the vibrant, evolving miniature ecosystem below.