The reclaimed shard pulsed faintly in Aloysius's palm, a steady heartbeat against the rising tide of unease that crept through his mind. As they traveled back through the shattered realms, the lingering shadows whispered faint voices tempting him with promises of unmatched power.
Kaelis noticed the change immediately. "The shards are affecting you. Their power is intoxicating."
Elyon nodded, concern etched across his face. "It's not just power, Aloysius. The corruption tied to these fragments grows stronger with every claim."
Aloysius clenched his fists, fighting the subtle poison in his veins. "I won't let it control me. The veil must be restored, no matter the cost."
But late at night, when the world was quiet, the whispers grew louder echoes of ancient gods, secrets of the veil, and offers of transcendence that threatened to unravel his resolve.
The journey ahead would test more than his strength. It would test his very soul.