Alex stumbled through the trees, the world spinning around him. His body felt...different, stronger. He glanced down at his hands and gasped. They were no longer human—they were armored, glowing with faint blue energy. His whole body had transformed into a powerful warrior.

"What is happening?" Alex muttered, flexing his new, armored fingers. His voice sounded different, deeper.

Suddenly, there was a rustling from the trees. Alex turned to see a strange creature emerge from the shadows—a tall, reptilian alien, its eyes glowing with malice.

"So, you're the new Chrono Bearer," the creature hissed, unsheathing a blade that crackled with electricity. "Hand over the watch, kid, and I might let you live."

Alex's heart raced. "What do you want with this thing?"

The alien sneered. "It's not for you to understand. Just give it to me!"

Without thinking, Alex raised his arm, and the Chrono Shift responded. A pulse of energy shot from his hand, knocking the alien back. Alex's eyes widened.

"Whoa...did I just do that?"

The alien growled, lunging at Alex, but the Chrono Shift seemed to move on instinct, guiding Alex's movements. With newfound strength and agility, Alex dodged the attack, countering with a powerful strike that sent the alien flying.

Panting, Alex looked at his hands again. "I've gotta get this thing off..."