The Void-Train barreled ahead, not bothering to slow as it cut through the wasteland between the Eastern Jade Sector and the fog-shrouded North. Inside, the lead-lined carriage felt claustrophobic, the air heavy with ozone and the sharp tang of Carter’s own blood cooling on his skin. The rush from the New-Tokyo duel was gone, replaced by a deep, bone-level exhaustion that made him feel hollow.
“Status: Level 26. Mana: 12/165 (Regenerating). System Integrity: 38%.”
Carter slumped by the viewport, watching the static blur of gray outside. In his hand, the Architect’s Coin had started to pulse—golden 02 flickering in an erratic dance against the stubborn silver 01. It reminded him of two hearts fighting for space in his chest.
“It’s getting louder,” he muttered, voice dry and worn out.
“T
