Time had passed, and Axel had made this alien world his home—or rather, his battlefield. Nearly two years had gone by since Astrais had descended onto the surface, finding itself stationed near the wreckage of the Engineers' spacecraft. The derelict vessel, once a testament to a civilization far beyond humanity's reach, had now become a treasure trove of technology and knowledge.
Axel had wasted no time in making Astrais stronger. Scavenging through the remains of the Engineer's ship, he had acquired numerous components that would take his ship beyond its original design. New weapons, shields, and even a space jumper for quick travel had been integrated into Astrais' systems. Every piece of technology he salvaged was analyzed, repurposed, and rebuilt with the help of Chamber's advanced AI. The war machine was invaluable, assisting him in both technical modifications and security measures.
"CHM-002, system diagnostics."
"All systems operating at peak efficiency. Defensive capabilities increased by 450%. Offensive armaments upgraded with unknown energy-based weaponry. Space-jump drive operational."
Axel smirked. Every ounce of effort was paying off. This ship was no longer just a means of escape—it was becoming a fortress. A battleship capable of surviving whatever hell awaited him in this universe.
However, it wasn't just technology that had changed.
Among the countless bodies of the Engineers scattered across the ruins, Axel had uncovered something far more valuable—their genetic material. With Chamber's assistance, he had decoded their DNA structure, analyzing the unique biological advantages they possessed. Through careful extraction and modification, he had developed a serum that enhanced his own physical capabilities.
The results were undeniable.
His strength, speed, endurance—everything had increased beyond human limits. His body healed faster, processed information more efficiently, and adapted to stress in ways he had never imagined. But he was careful. He tested each modification meticulously, ensuring that the changes did not spiral beyond his control.
Yet, there were things even he would not touch.
Among the wreckage, he had found the Stone Cylinders.
Dark, mysterious, and pulsating with an ominous presence.
Axel knew exactly what they contained—the black liquid, the horror that had doomed the Engineers. The catalyst for the nightmares that would eventually unfold in this universe.
He didn't just avoid them—he sealed them away.
"Chamber, reinforce all containment protocols. No one should be able to open those cylinders—not now, not ever."
"Affirmative. Locking down all access. Additional security measures installed."
Axel exhaled. He was playing with forces beyond his understanding, and he knew it. While his upgrades and research gave him an edge, one mistake could undo everything. The Engineers had fallen despite their advancements. He would not make the same mistake.
Standing on Astrais' command deck, Axel gazed at the horizon. The planet, with all its secrets, still had much to offer. But soon, it would be time to move.
He was stronger now, better equipped for the unknown. But the galaxy was vast, and this was only the beginning.
Soon, he would leave this world behind. And whatever lay ahead—he would be ready.