The sensation of passing through the space-time portal was indescribable.
For Yeh Yao, that moment felt stretched into eternity, yet also like a mere instant. He felt his body disintegrate into countless particles, only to reassemble again, his consciousness adrift in the river of time, witnessing countless possible pasts and futures flicker by. Around him was a chaotic whirlpool of colors, with no sense of up or down, left or right—only an eternal flow and transformation.
Then, suddenly, everything stopped. He felt his feet touch solid ground, and the gasps of the other four reached his ears.
"Is everyone alright?" Yeh Yao asked, his voice trembling slightly as his eyes adjusted to the surroundings.
"I think so," Michelle replied, steadying herself with Nasser's shoulder. "That was... beyond words."
"Did we really make it to the future?" Eunice asked, her eyes filled with curiosity and wariness as she scanned the area.
They found themselves standing on a massive metal platform surrounded by towering structures of bizarre shapes, made of what appeared to be some translucent metal or crystal. The sky was an unnatural shade of purple, with no sun in sight, yet the entire city was bathed in a soft blue glow. Various aircraft zipped through the air, their designs varied and silent except for a faint hum.
"It certainly looks like the future," Kristina remarked, her soldier's instincts immediately assessing the environment for potential threats. "And a very distant one at that."
"We need to determine the exact time," Yeh Yao said, "and our location. Most importantly, we have to find Alicia."
Carefully stepping off the platform, they found themselves in what seemed like a park—except the plants were unlike anything they knew. The leaves had a metallic sheen, the flowers changed color as they approached, and the tree trunks were semi-transparent, revealing a flowing liquid inside.
"Are these genetically modified plants?" Michelle wondered aloud, her scientific curiosity piqued.
"Most likely," Eunice replied. "Given that we may have traveled hundreds, if not thousands, of years forward, technology and biology must have advanced beyond our imagination."
They continued forward, reaching a wide street. Surprisingly, there were almost no pedestrians—only strange robots performing cleaning and maintenance tasks. The skyscrapers stretched endlessly into the sky, their surfaces shifting with intricate patterns and colors as if alive.
"This city seems almost empty," Nasser observed. "Isn't that strange? Such an advanced civilization, yet so few people."
"Maybe they live underground or inside the buildings," Kristina speculated. "Or... perhaps some disaster drastically reduced the population."
The thought sent a chill through them. They remembered the vision Michelle had seen through the Dragon's Wrath—the future catastrophe, the underground shelters, the terrible plague. Perhaps that scientist's "inevitable future" was this very world.
"We need information," Yeh Yao decided. "We have to understand what happened in this era and where that scientist and Alicia might be."
They approached the nearest building, its door sliding open automatically. Inside was a spacious hall with walls and floors of the same translucent material, emitting a soft glow. At the center stood a circular console, resembling some kind of information terminal.
Michelle stepped forward, hesitated, then placed her hand on the surface. The console lit up instantly, projecting a holographic image of a woman dressed in a simple white uniform, her expression calm and friendly.
"Welcome to the New Era City Archives," the hologram spoke in a pleasant, mechanical voice. "I am Assistant Aisha. How may I assist you?"
The five exchanged surprised glances. They hadn't expected to find a source of information so easily—one that even spoke a language they understood.
"Can you tell us what year it is?" Yeh Yao asked cautiously.
"The current date is New Era 132, May 15th," Aisha replied, "corresponding to Old Calendar 2157, May 15th."
"2157!" Michelle repeated in shock. "We've jumped 132 years forward."
"What does 'New Era' refer to?" Eunice asked, her archaeologist's instincts drawn to historical shifts.
"The New Era began after the reconstruction following the Great Cataclysm," Aisha explained, "when human civilization was nearly destroyed, and survivors established a new social order."
"What was the 'Great Cataclysm'?" Yeh Yao pressed, a sinking feeling in his chest.
Aisha's hologram shifted, displaying a series of horrifying images—cities in ruins, the earth splitting apart, oceans flooding inland, followed by a devastating plague that decimated the global population.
"The Great Cataclysm refers to a series of natural disasters and the subsequent global plague that occurred in Old Calendar 2025," Aisha stated matter-of-factly, as if recounting ordinary history. "Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis destroyed most coastal cities, and the outbreak of the 'Red Death' wiped out 90% of the world's population. The survivors were primarily those with specific genetic resistance or isolated communities."
The five listened in heavy silence. 2025—that was just a few years after their own time. If they didn't change anything, this catastrophe would soon befall their world.
"What's the current human population?" Kristina asked.
"Approximately 500 million globally," Aisha answered. "Most reside in 12 major cities and surrounding agricultural zones. New Era City is the largest, with a population of around one million."
"This city seems almost empty," Nasser pointed out. "Where is everyone?"
"Most citizens live underground or within the buildings," Aisha explained. "The surface environment remains unstable, with high radiation levels. People only come above ground for special occasions."
That explained the lack of pedestrians. But more questions arose.
"Can you tell us about a scientist named Alexander Morris?" Yeh Yao asked, guessing that the future scientist might bear that name.
Aisha's hologram changed, displaying the image of a middle-aged man in a white lab coat, his expression stern and determined—the very scientist they had seen in their shared vision.
"Dr. Alexander Morris is one of the most renowned scientists of the New Era," Aisha replied. "He pioneered temporal physics and developed the first functional time-transportation device. His research provided critical insights into understanding and preventing the Great Cataclysm, though ultimately, he failed to stop it."
"Where is he now?" Yeh Yao asked urgently.
"Dr. Morris currently works at the Time Research Laboratory in the New Era Academy of Sciences," Aisha answered. "The lab is located in the Science Tower at the city's central district."
"Can you tell us about a young woman named Alicia?" Yeh Yao continued, his heart pounding. "She may have arrived in this era recently."
Aisha paused briefly, as if searching her database. "There are no public records of an individual named Alicia," she finally replied. "However, there is a security alert regarding a 'temporal anomaly'—a young woman discovered near the Science Tower three months ago, currently detained at the Academy's secure facility for study and questioning."
"That must be her!" Yeh Yao exclaimed. "We need to get to the Science Tower—now!"
"Can you tell us how to reach the Science Tower?" Michelle asked Aisha.
"The Science Tower is located in the city center, approximately 10 kilometers from here," Aisha replied, projecting a detailed map. "You may use the public transit system—the nearest station is just outside this building."
"Thank you for your help, Aisha," Eunice said politely.
"You're most welcome," Aisha responded. "Have a pleasant day in New Era City."
The hologram vanished, and the five exited the archive, finding the transit station Aisha had mentioned—a small circular platform surrounded by control panels.
"This must be their public transportation," Michelle mused, studying the controls. "Some kind of instant teleportation—far more advanced than anything in our time."
"But we don't know how to use it," Kristina pointed out. "And we don't have this era's identification or currency, if that's required."
"Maybe we should walk," Nasser suggested. "Ten kilometers isn't too far, and it'll give us a better look at the city."
"Or we could use the relics' powers," Eunice proposed. "Nasser's Earth Shatterer can create underground passages, and Kristina's Angel's Blessing could let us fly."
"Flying might draw attention," Yeh Yao considered. "But underground tunnels could work. Nasser, what do you think?"
"I can try," Nasser nodded. "But I'll need the exact direction and distance."
Michelle memorized the map Aisha had shown and pointed toward the Science Tower. Nasser found a secluded corner, summoned the Earth Shatterer, and lightly struck the ground while visualizing the tower's location.
The earth trembled as a spacious tunnel formed beneath them, stretching toward the city center. The walls were smooth, illuminated by a soft glow from above.
"It worked!" Nasser said, surprised. "Much easier than I expected. Maybe the geological structure here is more malleable, or the Earth Shatterer is stronger in this era."
The five entered the tunnel and began their journey. It was wide and level, making for easy travel. Occasionally, they spotted strange mechanical devices embedded in the walls—likely part of this era's infrastructure.
"We need a plan," Yeh Yao said as they walked. "Once we reach the Science Tower, how do we find Alicia and get her out?"
"First, we locate her exact position," Kristina said, her military training kicking in. "Then assess security measures and potential resistance."
"We also need to consider how to handle Dr. Morris," Michelle added. "He may be the reason Alicia's detained, but we can't assume he's purely an enemy. His intentions might be good, even if his methods are wrong."
"Agreed," Eunice nodded. "If possible, we should try talking to him, understand his plan—maybe find a better solution."
"But what if he refuses?" Nasser asked. "What if he insists on his path, releasing monsters and creating hybrids?"
"Then we stop him," Yeh Yao said firmly. "Whatever it takes. But our priority is finding Alicia and ensuring her safety."
After about an hour, the tunnel began sloping upward. Nasser signaled for them to stop and used the Earth Shatterer to create a small opening to peek outside.
"We're beneath the Science Tower," he reported. "I see some corridors and labs, but not much activity."
"We need more intel," Yeh Yao said. "Eunice, can you use the Whispering Gale to listen for sounds?"
Eunice nodded, summoning the relic. Closing her eyes, she focused, letting the wind carry voices to her.
"I hear conversations," she said after a moment. "Scientists discussing experiments. And... wait, someone mentioned the 'temporal anomaly' and a 'secure containment cell.' They said it's on the top floor, heavily guarded."
"That's where we need to go," Yeh Yao decided. "But we'll have to move carefully—avoid drawing attention."
Nasser widened the exit, and the five climbed out into what appeared to be a storage room filled with strange equipment and materials.
"We need disguises," Kristina noted. "Our clothes stand out too much here."
They found white lab coats and ID badges meant for maintenance staff or assistants. Once dressed, they blended in better, though still not perfectly.
"These badges might have trackers," Michelle warned. "We should avoid security checkpoints."
Stepping cautiously into the hallway, they marveled at the tower's interior—more magnificent than its exterior, with translucent walls and ceilings glowing softly. Labs and offices lined the corridor, scientists visible through transparent walls conducting complex experiments.
They moved naturally, avoiding patrols and cameras. Michelle noted that despite the advanced tech, security seemed lax—perhaps due to low crime rates or more sophisticated surveillance methods.
"We need an elevator or stairs to the top," Yeh Yao whispered.
They found an elevator bay, but the panel had no buttons—just a smooth surface. As they approached, a holographic interface appeared, listing floor options.
"The top level requires high-level clearance," Michelle observed. "Our badges won't be enough."
"Maybe the relics can help," Eunice suggested. "Michelle's Dragon's Wrath can influence electronics, or Kristina's Angel's Blessing could fly us up."
"Flying's too conspicuous," Kristina shook her head. "But maybe a service stairway?"
They searched and found a small door labeled "Maintenance Only." It was locked, but Nasser tapped it with the Earth Shatterer, and the lock clicked open.
Inside was a narrow, rarely used staircase. They began climbing, but the tower was hundreds of stories tall—an exhausting trek.
"Maybe we can teleport," Yeh Yao suggested. "The Phoenix Blade can briefly tear space-time, creating portals."
"But you'd need to know the exact destination," Michelle reminded him. "And it's draining."
"I'll try," Yeh Yao said firmly. "I'll visualize the lab where Alicia's held."
He summoned the Phoenix Blade, focusing intensely on the tower's peak. The blade glowed red, and with a slash, it ripped open a spatial rift—a portal to another location.
"It worked!" Yeh Yao exclaimed. "Quick—it won't last long!"
The five rushed through, finding themselves in a vast laboratory. At its center was a massive machine resembling a time portal, surrounded by complex consoles. Along one wall were transparent containment cells—one holding a familiar figure sitting on a simple cot, deep in thought.
"Alicia!" Yeh Yao cried, rushing to the cell.
She looked up, her eyes widening with shock, joy, and worry.
"Yeh Yao? How are you here?" she asked, her voice muffled by the transparent barrier.
"We came to save you," Yeh Yao replied, examining the cell door for a way to open it. "We gathered all the relics and created a portal to this time."
"You shouldn't have," Alicia shook her head, her expression grave. "Dr. Morris... his plans... you have to stop him."
"We will," Yeh Yao promised. "But first, we're getting you out."
He tried forcing the door with the Phoenix Blade, but it didn't budge—the future material resisted the relic's power.
"Let me try," Nasser said, summoning the Earth Shatterer to strike the cell floor, attempting to tunnel beneath. But the ground remained unyielding.
"These materials... they're designed to counter our abilities," Michelle realized. "As if Dr. Morris expected us."
"He did," a calm voice spoke from the lab entrance.
They turned to see a middle-aged man in a white lab coat—Dr. Alexander Morris, the scientist from the future.
"I've been waiting for you," Dr. Morris said, stepping inside. "Though you arrived later than I anticipated."
"You knew we'd come?" Yeh Yao asked warily, gripping the Phoenix Blade.
"Of course," Dr. Morris smiled slightly. "I've studied time for decades. I know every turning point in history. Your arrival was inevitable—just like the Great Cataclysm."
"Then why take Alicia?" Michelle demanded. "Why send monsters to attack our time?"
"Because it's necessary," Dr. Morris replied, a hint of sorrow in his voice. "You've seen this world—what remains after the Cataclysm. We were nearly wiped out, less than a tenth of humanity survived. Even after generations, we've never fully recovered."
"So you're trying to change the past to save the future?" Eunice guessed. "By releasing monsters and creating hybrids?"
"Not just save," Dr. Morris corrected. "Evolve. Ordinary humans couldn't survive the Cataclysm—only those with specific genetic resistance endured the Red Death. My plan was to begin humanity's evolution early, creating a stronger species capable of surviving any environment."
"By unleashing monsters to kill innocents?" Yeh Yao said angrily. "That's not evolution—it's slaughter!"
"Sacrifices are necessary," Dr. Morris said calmly. "The deaths of a few to ensure the survival of the species. Simple mathematics."
"You have no right to make that choice!" Kristina snapped. "No one gets to decide who lives or dies."
"As one who's seen the future, it's my responsibility," Dr. Morris insisted. "If you'd witnessed what I have—billions dying in agony, civilization collapsing—you'd do the same."
"There has to be another way," Michelle said. "We could warn people, prepare for the disasters, develop a vaccine for the Red Death."
"You think I haven't tried?" Dr. Morris laughed bitterly. "I went back, warned scientists and governments—no one believed me. Even when they did, preparations were always too little, too late. I've tried hundreds of methods—the outcome never changes. The Cataclysm is inevitable."
"So you resorted to extremes," Nasser summarized. "Creating a new human race."
"Yes," Dr. Morris nodded. "A species that can survive any environment, immune to disease, adaptable to any climate. Humanity's only hope."
"But your methods are wrong," Alicia spoke from her cell. "You can't build a better future through fear and bloodshed. That only breeds more suffering."
"I understand your moral objections," Dr. Morris sighed. "But survival outweighs ethics. I've seen too much death. I won't let it happen again."
"Then help us find another way," Yeh Yao offered, lowering the Phoenix Blade. "We have the five relics—their power is immense. Maybe together, we can find a solution without innocent deaths."
Dr. Morris fell silent, considering.
"Perhaps... you're right," he finally said, a glimmer of hope in his voice. "I've tried hundreds of times—but never with all five relics. That's a new variable."
"Then release Alicia," Yeh Yao urged. "Let's work together."
After a pause, Dr. Morris entered a code into the console. The cell door slid open.
Alicia rushed out, embracing Yeh Yao tightly. After so long, feeling her warmth, hearing her heartbeat—he knew this wasn't a dream. She was really back.
"I thought I'd never see you again," Alicia whispered, her voice trembling.
"I'd never stop searching," Yeh Yao replied, equally emotional.
The others welcomed her back warmly. Though they hadn't known each other long, their shared trials had forged them into a true team—a family.
"Now, we must discuss stopping the Cataclysm," Dr. Morris interjected. "Time is short. You have less than 24 hours here before the portal closed, trapping you in this time."
"Then we move fast," Yeh Yao decided. "Doctor, tell us everything about the Cataclysm and what you've tried. Maybe we'll spot something you missed."
Dr. Morris led them to a large central display, projecting a holographic Earth marked with hundreds of red dots—the disaster sites.
"The Cataclysm began in March 2025 with a series of mega-earthquakes," he explained. "They triggered volcanic eruptions across the Pacific Rim, causing abrupt climate shifts. Rising sea levels drowned coastal cities. But the true killer was the Red Death—a virus released from thawing ancient ice, dormant for millennia."
"What are its traits?" Michelle asked, already analyzing.
"It attacks the immune system, causing multi-organ failure," Dr. Morris replied. "95% mortality. Only those with a specific genetic mutation survived—less than 5% of the population."
"Did you try developing a vaccine?" Eunice asked.
"Of course," he nodded. "I brought samples and data to virologists. But the virus is incredibly complex, mutating rapidly. Even cutting-edge science would take years to create a vaccine—we had months at best."
"What about the earthquakes and eruptions?" Nasser asked. "Can those be prevented or mitigated?"
"Theoretically, yes," Dr. Morris said. "But it requires global cooperation and massive resources. Governments I warned were too divided by politics and economics to act."
"So you concluded the only solution was a new human species," Kristina summarized. "One that could survive post-Cataclysm conditions."
"Yes," Dr. Morris confirmed. "By merging human DNA with creatures from the hellgate dimension—beings capable of enduring extreme environments."
"But the risks are enormous," Michelle pointed out. "Genetic engineering in our time is still highly experimental. How could you ensure control?"
"The risks were worth it," Dr. Morris said. "Compared to certain extinction."
"Wait," Alicia suddenly spoke up. "You said the Red Death came from ancient ice. What if we destroy or isolate the virus before it's released?"
Dr. Morris considered this, then shook his head. "I've tried similar approaches. The virus is scattered across Arctic and Antarctic ice—finding and eliminating all traces is nearly impossible."
"But we have the relics," Yeh Yao pointed out. "Their power surpasses technology. Maybe they can detect and purify the virus?"
"That... could be a new approach," Dr. Morris said slowly, hope dawning. "I never considered applying the relics' powers this way."
"Michelle's Dragon's Wrath can see past and future through water," Eunice added. "Maybe it can pinpoint the virus locations?"
"Nasser's Earth Shatterer can create tunnels to reach those sites quickly," Kristina continued. "My Angel's Blessing can purify—perhaps it works on the virus?"
"Eunice's Whispering Gale can control wind, preventing airborne spread," Nasser added excitedly. "And Yeh Yao's Phoenix Blade can create portals for instant travel."
Dr. Morris's expression shifted from skepticism to hope, then resolve.
"This might actually work," he said, revitalized. "If we can locate and neutralize the virus using the relics, we might prevent the Red Death entirely."
"What about the earthquakes and eruptions?" Yeh Yao asked.
"More difficult," Dr. Morris admitted. "They're releases of Earth's internal forces—even the relics can't stop that. But with advance warning, evacuations could minimize casualties."
"We need a detailed plan," Michelle said. "Assigning roles and timelines."
Over the next hours, they worked with Dr. Morris to devise a strategy combining the relics' powers and his temporal technology to avert or mitigate the Cataclysm. The plan included:
Using the Dragon's Wrath to locate virus-laden ice.
The Earth Shatterer and Phoenix Blade for rapid travel.
The Angel's Blessing to purify the virus or the Whispering Gale to contain it.
Leveraging Dr. Morris's technology to send precise disaster warnings to the past.
Coordinating global evacuations and preparations.
"This could actually succeed," Dr. Morris said finally, hopeful. "But we must act now. You have less than 12 hours left here."
"Then we begin," Yeh Yao declared. "First, pinpoint the virus locations."
Michelle summoned the Dragon's Wrath, dipping its tip into a special liquid—an enhancement medium Dr. Morris created to amplify its power.
She closed her eyes, focusing on the past, seeking the ancient virus. The staff glowed blue, the liquid rippling before forming images—seven sites across the Arctic and Antarctic, each with ice emitting a faint red glow.
"I see them," Michelle said, opening her eyes. "Seven primary virus sources—three Arctic, four Antarctic."
Dr. Morris recorded the coordinates.
"Consistent with my research," he confirmed. "But your relic provided precise locations. Now, we must decide how to neutralize them."
"I can try purifying them with the Angel's Blessing," Kristina offered. "But I'd need direct contact."
"The Earth Shatterer can create tunnels," Nasser said. "But spanning such distances would drain energy."
"The Phoenix Blade can open portals," Yeh Yao added. "But that's also energy-intensive, and I'm not fully skilled yet."
"Perhaps a combination," Eunice suggested. "Using the doctor's technology to enhance our abilities."
Dr. Morris approached his time-transportation device—the massive machine at the lab's center.
"This can amplify your powers," he explained. "By tapping into the time stream itself, providing near-limitless energy. But it's a one-time use—the machine will be destroyed afterward."
"A worthy cost," Yeh Yao said firmly. "If it saves billions."
Dr. Morris activated the machine. The air distorted as if time itself bent around it.
"Ready," he instructed. "At maximum power, focus your abilities—visualize all seven sites, attempt simultaneous purification."
The five formed a circle, summoning their relics. As the machine's energy surged, the relics shone brighter than ever, their colors intertwining into a complex energy field.
"Now!" Dr. Morris shouted.
They concentrated, channeling energy toward the virus sites. A brilliant beam shot upward, splitting into seven strands—each arcing toward a different part of the globe.
The process lasted minutes before the light faded. Exhausted but fulfilled, they lowered their relics.
"Did it work?" Yeh Yao asked, looking to Dr. Morris.
The doctor checked his monitors, his expression shifting from focus to astonishment, then joy.
"Yes," he confirmed, awed. "All seven virus sources are purified. The Red Death is gone."
"What about the earthquakes and eruptions?" Michelle asked.
"I have an idea," Dr. Morris said, moving to another console. "Using my temporal broadcast, we can send precise warnings to the past—exact timings and locations. Even if we can't stop the disasters, evacuations could save countless lives."
"But how do we ensure they'll believe the warnings?" Eunice asked.
"We'll include verifiable information—upcoming events or discoveries only they would know," Dr. Morris explained.
"Then let's begin," Yeh Yao decided. "Time's running out."
As Dr. Morris prepared the broadcast, he also monitored the timeline's changes.
"It's working," he suddenly said, amazed. "The timeline is shifting. A new future is forming—one without the Cataclysm."
A hologram displayed a different world—thriving cities, a flourishing population, advanced yet harmonious technology.
"We did it," Dr. Morris breathed. "We've truly changed the future."
"But what does that mean?" Alicia asked. "For this timeline, this future?"
"Everything changes," Dr. Morris explained. "This future—New Era City, the post-Cataclysm world—will cease to exist. A new timeline will take its place, where civilization continues unbroken."
"What happens to you?" Yeh Yao asked, concerned.
"I... don't know," Dr. Morris admitted. "In theory, I should vanish—my original future erased. Or perhaps I'll be integrated into the new timeline, or lost in time's flow."
"I'm sorry," Yeh Yao said sincerely. "Despite our disagreements, I know you meant well. You wanted to save humanity."
"No apologies needed," Dr. Morris smiled. "This is a worthy trade. Knowing billions will be spared is worth any fate."
Suddenly, the tower trembled. Cracks spread across walls and floors as if reality itself was unraveling.
"The timeline is rewriting," Dr. Morris said calmly. "This future is disappearing. You must return to your time now—or be trapped in the void between."
"But how?" Michelle asked urgently. "We'd need another portal."
"Use my machine," Dr. Morris pointed to the time transporter. "It has enough energy for one more jump. I've set the coordinates—it will return you to your exact departure point."
"Come with us," Yeh Yao urged. "In our time, you could continue your work peacefully."
Dr. Morris shook his head. "Thank you, but my place is here. I must ensure the timeline's transition. And in your time, a younger Alexander Morris already exists—one who may now choose a different path."
The tremors worsened. Equipment exploded; fires erupted.
"Go," Dr. Morris urged. "Step onto the platform—I'll activate it."
The six hurried onto the transporter.
"Thank you, Doctor," Yeh Yao said finally. "Despite everything, you made the right choice."
"No, you taught me the power of hope," Dr. Morris replied, initiating the sequence. "Now go—build that better future."
The machine flared to life, the air warping into a vortex. Once more, they felt themselves dissolving, pulled into the stream of time.
Their last sight was Dr. Morris at the controls, smiling as he waved farewell—just before the lab collapsed into nothingness.
The journey through time was smoother this time, more directed. Their consciousnesses drifted, yet remained tethered together by an unseen force.
Then—sudden stillness. Solid ground beneath their feet. Familiar voices—Li Qingyun and Xiao Long's exclamations.
They were back. Back at Five Elements Peak, at the exact moment they'd left. And this time, Alicia was with them.
"You succeeded!" Li Qingyun exclaimed, overjoyed at their safe return—especially Alicia's.
"Yes," Yeh Yao smiled, holding Alicia's hand. "We found her, changed the future, and stopped a catastrophe."
"But what does that mean?" Xiao Long asked curiously. "How will the future change?"
"We're not certain," Michelle admitted. "But we know it'll be better—a future without the Cataclysm."
"Our work isn't over," Eunice added. "We must warn governments, help prepare for natural disasters. The Red Death is gone, but earthquakes and eruptions may still come."
"The Watchers can assist," Nasser suggested. "They have global connections."
"We'll do everything we can," Kristina vowed. "Using our powers and knowledge to protect this world."
"But for now," Yeh Yao said, gazing at Alicia with love and relief, "let's celebrate our victory—and her return."
The six shared a smile as they descended the peak, returning to Dragon Spring Village. Their journey wasn't over—there was still work to be done, challenges to face. But now, whatever the future held, they would face it together—as a team, a family.
This was the continuation of the Gaia Expedition—a journey of hope, courage, and friendship.