Aria's control over the power was tenuous at best. She could feel its presence within her, waiting to be unleashed.
Elijah's eyes never left hers, his gaze burning with intensity. "We need to find a way to stabilize your power," he said.
Aria nodded, knowing he was right. She couldn't keep living like this, constantly on edge.
Together, they delved into ancient texts and sought out wise sages, searching for answers.
But the more they learned, the more Aria realized the true extent of her power. She was a Catalyst, a being capable of harnessing the ancient magic.
And with that power came consequences.
Aria began to experience strange and terrifying side effects. Her dreams were filled with visions of destruction, and her waking hours were plagued by an insatiable hunger for more power.
Elijah stood by her, steadfast and true, but even he couldn't hide his fear.
"Aria, what's happening to you?" he whispered.
Aria's eyes locked onto his, filled with a desperate plea. "I don't know," she admitted. "But I think I'm losing myself."
As the days passed, Aria's transformation accelerated. Her eyes turned a piercing shade of green, and her skin took on an ethereal glow.
Elijah's concern deepened. "Aria, we have to find a way to reverse this," he urged.
But Aria was torn. A part of her reveled in the power coursing through her veins, while another part screamed in terror.
One night, as they walked through the deserted streets, Aria felt the power surge within her. She raised her hands, and a blast of energy illuminated the darkness.
Elijah's eyes widened in awe. "Aria, you're getting stronger."
But Aria knew the truth. With each use of her power, she felt herself slipping further away.
"I'm losing myself, Elijah," she whispered.
Elijah's arms wrapped around her, holding her close. "I won't let that happen," he vowed.
But as they stood there, wrapped in each other's arms, Aria felt the power's presence growing stronger.