As the shadowy figure emerged from behind, the atmosphere in the temple grew tense. Anabella and Thiên Phong turned around to see a man dressed in ancient attire with a threatening gaze.
"You shouldn't be here,"
the man said coldly.
"This temple is protected by secrets you cannot comprehend."
Thiên Phong stepped forward to shield Anabella. "We mean no harm. We're just trying to resolve the curse."
The man raised an eyebrow.
"A curse? You don't understand. This curse is maintained by a very delicate balance. If you don't handle it correctly, you'll only create more trouble."
Anabella felt anxious but tried to stay calm.
"We found a document that says we need an artifact from this temple to complete the ritual."
The man scrutinized the gemstone in Anabella's hand.
"That gem… How did you get it?"
"We performed a ritual to obtain it,"
Thiên Phong explained.
"We need to complete another ritual to resolve the curse."
The man thought for a moment and then nodded. "If you know about this ritual, I might help. But first, you must prove that you're trustworthy."
He raised his hand and made a strange symbol in the air.
"There is a test to prove your sincerity. If you pass, I will assist you. If not, you will face dangers beyond your imagination."
Anabella and Thiên Phong agreed.
"We're ready to face the challenge,"
Anabella said with determination.
The man began the test. The symbols on the walls started to shift, creating a challenging trial. Anabella and Thiên Phong had to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles to prove their capabilities.
After passing the test, the man smiled.
"You've demonstrated your sincerity and intellect. I will help you complete the ritual."
He led them to a secret area of the temple containing crucial information about the additional ritual.
"Prepare thoroughly,"
he warned.
"This ritual is not easy and requires absolute precision."
Anabella and Thiên Phong felt relieved to receive help but knew that the greatest challenge was still ahead. They prepared for the additional ritual, determined to complete their mission and resolve the curse once and for all.