The Forge's power burned inside Alex like a second sun.
He stood on the ridge overlooking the facility, his body crackling with energy. The power of creation itself flowed through his veins, raw and untamed. He could feel the universe bending to his will, reality shaping itself around his thoughts.
But there was a price.
The darkness inside him had grown. The hunger was stronger than ever. He could feel it pressing against his consciousness, demanding to be fed. Demanding to be released.
Elena appeared beside him. "You've been out here for hours. What's wrong?"
Alex didn't turn to face her. "The power. It's changing me. I can feel it."
"Changing you how?"
Alex finally turned. His eyes glowed with a faint golden light. "I can feel the universe, Elena. Every atom. Every thought. Every
