The voices returned, their tone final. "You have made your choice. The path to the sacred temple will reveal itself when the time is right. Until then, prepare yourselves for what lies ahead. The future will not wait, and neither will the forces that seek to destroy it."
The world around them shifted once more, and they found themselves standing on a rocky shore. The air was thick with salt, and the ocean roared in their ears, its waves crashing with a ferocity that mirrored their inner turmoil.
In the distance, the sacred temple stood silhouetted against the horizon, its spires reaching into the heavens like jagged fangs. The journey to its gates would not be simple. The Stone in Sia's hands pulsed faintly, its light steady but ominous.
Sia looked out at the vast expanse of water, her heart heavy but resolute. "We'll do this, Anthony. Not just for the Merclan or the Stone—but for our future. For him."
Anthony nodded, his arm wrapping around her shoulders. "And we'll face whatever comes next. Together."
As they began their journey toward the temple, an eerie stillness settled over the waters. Shadows stirred beneath the waves, unseen eyes tracking their every move.
Far away, in a realm that existed beyond time, a figure stood watching. His lips curled into a smile that didn't reach his eyes. He was a man who wore the mask of a savior but harbored the heart of a villain.
The battle for the future was just beginning, and the stakes were higher than they could ever imagine.