Julian reached out and gently touched the Aetherium Eye, its cool, smooth surface vibrating faintly under his fingertips. He felt its vast knowledge, its power of perception, but also its slight vulnerability, the energetic wound left by Master A's theft. He knew he had to integrate it, to absorb its power into his Seal, to prevent any further loss, any further corruption. But it wouldn't be the same. It wouldn't be whole.
"We need to secure it, Elara," Julian said, his voice grim. "And then we need to understand what they intend to do with what they stole. What new horror they're planning."
Elara nodded, her tablet still clutched in her hand. Her face was pale, reflecting the gravity of the situation. "You mean… integrate it now, Julian? Even with its energy matrix compromised?"
Lyra,
