Chapter 12: Mastering the Echo of Eternity
Jax Ryker sat alone in the dimly lit room, the sound of wind howling outside like a distant memory of the world that once was. The flickering light from the small fire danced on the rough stone walls, casting eerie shadows that seemed to move with a life of their own. But Jax wasn't focused on the shadows or the wind; his attention was entirely on the strange, pulsing energy within him—the Echo of Eternity.
This power had been with him since the beginning, a gift—or perhaps a curse—that set him apart from the other transmigrants. At first, it had been nothing more than a whisper, a subtle nudge guiding him through the perils of this new world. But now, it was evolving, growing stronger, and demanding his attention.
Jax took a deep breath, closing his eyes and focusing inward. The Echo responded almost immediately, a surge of energy flooding his senses. His heart pounded in his chest, and his skin tingled as if charged with electricity. He could feel the power waiting, begging to be unleashed.
He opened his eyes and looked around the room. A small, broken piece of metal lay nearby, remnants of some forgotten tool. Jax focused on it, reaching out with his mind, willing the Echo to take control. Slowly, a tendril of blue energy extended from his hand, wrapping around the metal. Jax concentrated, his brow furrowing as he lifted the object into the air. It hovered there, wobbling slightly as if uncertain of its newfound freedom.
Telekinesis. The realization hit him hard. This was no longer just a passive ability—it was something far more powerful, something that could change everything. But with that power came a cost, a drain on his energy that left him feeling dizzy and weak.
Jax lowered the metal piece back to the ground, letting out a slow breath. His muscles ached, and his mind felt foggy. The Echo of Eternity was incredible, but it was also dangerous. If he wasn't careful, it could consume him.
He glanced at the Transmigrated System's interface that hovered before him, a constant reminder of the strange new world he found himself in. Jax hadn't used the Trade Center much, but with the Echo evolving, he knew he needed to be prepared for whatever lay ahead. Supplies were running low, and the dangers they faced were only growing.
With a few quick swipes, Jax accessed the Trade Center. He scanned the available options, his eyes landing on a set of energy cells in exchange for some of the remaining food rations. It was a tough choice—one that could mean the difference between survival and starvation. But the energy cells were essential, especially with the new abilities he was unlocking.
Jax hesitated for a moment, then confirmed the trade. The food rations disappeared, replaced by the energy cells. He pocketed them, feeling a mixture of relief and unease. Every decision carried weight here, and there was no room for mistakes.
As the hours passed, Jax pushed himself harder, training with the Echo of Eternity. He practiced lifting objects, generating small bursts of energy, and even attempting to manipulate the temperature around him. Each new ability was a revelation, but each one also took its toll, draining his strength faster than he had anticipated.
By the time the first light of dawn crept into the room, Jax was exhausted but determined. The Echo of Eternity was more powerful than ever, but it was also more difficult to control. He knew he had to be careful—this power was both a gift and a curse, and he couldn't afford to let it take over.
Jax stood up, stretching his sore muscles. He had learned a lot during the night, but there was still so much he didn't understand. The Echo of Eternity was evolving, and so was he. But with that evolution came a growing sense of unease, a nagging fear that he was losing control.
He looked out the small window at the barren landscape beyond. The world was harsh, unforgiving, and full of dangers he couldn't even begin to comprehend. But Jax knew one thing for certain: he couldn't afford to stop. The Echo of Eternity was awakening, and if he wanted to survive, he had to master it—before it mastered him.