Yes, the part where you delve into another character's past is also part of the Echo. Someone will have to find the quote Minfilia says about how to control the Echo, but I'm pretty sure she implies or outright denies being able to control it.
I know there are plenty of characters that ICly have the Echo, but I've never actually RP'ed it out, so you'll have to ask someone else.
NOTE: A very important aspect of the Echo is that it allows your characters to fight Primals without being Tempered.
If your character does not ICly possess the Echo and goes off to fight a Primal, odds are, he or she will become enslaved in body, mind, and spirit, to that Primal.
I know there are plenty of characters that ICly have the Echo, but I've never actually RP'ed it out, so you'll have to ask someone else.
NOTE: A very important aspect of the Echo is that it allows your characters to fight Primals without being Tempered.
If your character does not ICly possess the Echo and goes off to fight a Primal, odds are, he or she will become enslaved in body, mind, and spirit, to that Primal.
