The morning mist of Huangshan enveloped the Five Elements Peak like a fairyland, adding an ethereal aura to this mystical place.
The six stood on the stone platform, breathing in the crisp air, feeling the warmth of sunlight filtering through the thin fog. The exhaustion and tension from their time travel gradually dissipated, replaced by a deep sense of peace and fulfillment. They had succeeded—Alicia was back, the future catastrophe had been averted, and the world had gained new hope.
"It feels like a long dream," Alicia murmured, gazing at the familiar peaks and trees around them. "In that future world, I was trapped for three months, thinking every day about how to return, how to stop Dr. Morris's plan."
"For us, it was only a few days," Yeh Yao replied, holding her hand. "But it felt like an eternity. I was so afraid I'd never see you again."
"Time is relative," Michelle said with a smile. "Einstein once said that two hours with a beautiful girl feel like two minutes, while two minutes on a hot stove feel like two hours."
"I think we've all had our share of the 'hot stove' part," Nasser chuckled. "But now, the good times begin."
Li Qingyun and Xiao Long approached, their faces filled with respect and curiosity.
"Your journey must have been extraordinary," Li Qingyun said. "Would you share what you saw in the future?"
The six exchanged glances, then began recounting their experiences—the nearly empty city, the underground survivors, Dr. Morris's plan, and how they had altered the future.
"So, the Cataclysm has been prevented," Xiao Long summarized, his eyes shining with excitement. "You saved humanity's future."
"We hope so," Eunice said cautiously. "We eliminated the Red Death, but earthquakes and eruptions may still occur. We need to warn the world and help people prepare."
"That will be a monumental task," Kristina pointed out. "How do we convince governments to trust warnings from unknown sources?"
"The Watchers can help us," Yeh Yao suggested. "Marcus Chen has global contacts who can assist in disseminating information and organizing preparations."
"And we have the relics," Michelle added. "Their power can serve as proof that our warnings are real."
"Speaking of the relics," Li Qingyun interjected, "now that you've gathered all five and completed your mission, you should consider their future. These relics hold immense power—they shouldn't be used or displayed lightly."
"What do you suggest?" Alicia asked respectfully.
"Traditionally, once a mission is complete, the relics are sealed until the next time they're needed," Li Qingyun explained. "This prevents misuse and protects the bearers from unnecessary attention and danger."
"But what if we need them to help prevent disasters?" Nasser asked, reluctant to relinquish the power he'd only just acquired.
"You can retain your connection to them," Li Qingyun replied. "Summon them when truly needed. But in daily life, it's best to seal them away and return to normalcy."
The six pondered this advice. The past weeks had changed their lives, exposing them to unimaginable experiences. But now that their main mission was complete, perhaps it was time to consider the future.
"I think Master Li is right," Eunice finally said. "We can't live in constant adventure and danger forever. Each of us has our own lives and responsibilities."
"And wielding such power comes with great responsibility," Michelle added. "If it's not truly necessary, it's best not to use it."
"I agree," Kristina nodded. "As a soldier, I understand that power must be controlled and used appropriately."
"Then where should we seal the relics?" Nasser asked, accepting the decision.
"The Dragon Spring Cave is a suitable place," Li Qingyun suggested. "Its ancient energy field can safely contain and protect them. And only you, the true bearers, can awaken them again."
"That sounds like a good plan," Yeh Yao agreed, looking at Alicia. "What do you think?"
"I trust Master Li's wisdom," Alicia replied. "Besides, we've already proven that we don't need the relics' power to make a difference. True strength comes from our determination and unity."
With the decision made, the six followed Li Qingyun and Xiao Long back to the Dragon Spring Cave on Tiandu Peak—this time not to seek the relics, but to seal them until the world needed them again.
Deep inside the cave, Li Qingyun prepared a simple yet solemn ceremony. The six formed a circle, each summoning their relic—Yeh Yao's Phoenix Sword, Alicia's Phoenix Sword, Michelle's Dragon's Wrath, Nasser's Earth Shatterer, Eunice's Whispering Gale, and Kristina's Angel's Blessing.
"Channel your will into the relics," Li Qingyun instructed. "Thank them for their aid, but tell them it's time to rest. When the world needs them again, you will call upon them."
Closing their eyes, the six focused, conveying their gratitude and intent. The relics began glowing softly, then floated toward a stone platform at the cave's center. As they touched the platform, a brilliant flash of light erupted—then vanished, leaving only six marks etched into the stone.
"The ritual is complete," Li Qingyun announced. "The relics are now dormant, but their power remains tied to you. In times of true need, you may awaken them again."
Leaving the cave, the six felt a strange mix of relief and loss. The relics had become part of their lives, and suddenly severing that connection left a void. Yet, there was also liberation—a chance to return to normalcy.
"So, what now?" Nasser asked as they returned to Dragon Spring Village. "We still have a world to save, remember?"
"We need to contact Marcus Chen," Yeh Yao replied. "Tell him what we've learned and ask for the Watchers' support."
"We also need more detailed data on the predicted earthquakes and eruptions," Michelle added. "Dr. Morris gave us clues, but we need specifics."
"I can reach out to my military contacts in Russia," Kristina offered. "They have advanced seismic monitoring systems."
"My archaeology network might help too," Eunice said. "Many archaeologists also study geology and volcanology."
"We need a base—a place to coordinate all this," Alicia mused. "Maybe return to Malaysia and use the university's resources?"
"Or Hong Kong," Yeh Yao suggested. "Marcus has an office there, and it's Asia's financial and information hub. Easier to connect globally."
After discussion, they decided on Hong Kong as their base for disaster prevention efforts. Li Qingyun and Xiao Long provided them with ancient herbs and talismans for protection in perilous times.
"Remember," Li Qingyun advised before their departure, "true strength comes from within—from your unity and resolve. The relics are merely tools. The real heroes are you."
With these words of wisdom, the six left Dragon Spring Village and embarked on their journey to Hong Kong.
Along the way, they had more time to bond and share. Alicia recounted her experiences in the future—how she'd been captured by Dr. Morris, learned of his plans, and clung to hope during her imprisonment.
"The hardest part was not knowing if you were safe or even looking for me," she told Yeh Yao. "Every night, I imagined you searching, and that gave me strength to resist."
"I never lost hope," Yeh Yao replied. "Even in the darkest moments, I believed we'd meet again."
The others shared their own stories. Michelle spoke of her transformation from a lab-focused scientist to someone willing to risk everything for a greater cause. Nasser recounted his adventures in Hawaii and how he'd discovered his passion for protecting the Earth. Eunice reflected on how her studies of ancient civilizations helped her understand present challenges. Kristina shared her military experiences and how she now applied those skills to peaceful purposes.
Upon arriving in Hong Kong, they immediately contacted Marcus Chen. He listened in astonishment as they detailed their journey, especially their glimpse of the future and the impending disasters.
"This is grave news," he said gravely in his luxurious Central office. "If your predictions are accurate, we have less than a year to prepare."
"We need the Watchers' full support," Yeh Yao said. "We must relay these warnings to governments worldwide and help them prepare."
"That won't be easy," Marcus admitted. "Most governments are skeptical of such alerts, especially from unofficial channels."
"But we have evidence," Michelle pointed out. "We can provide exact dates, locations, and scales. If the first few predictions prove accurate, they'll have to take the rest seriously."
"And we have your influence and resources," Alicia added. "The Watchers have global contacts, don't they?"
Marcus pondered, then nodded. "Yes, we can leverage those. But we'll need a detailed strategy to persuade governments."
Over the next few days, with Marcus's help, they devised a comprehensive plan:
Compile and organize all data on predicted earthquakes and eruptions, including dates, locations, and magnitudes.
Use the Watchers' network to disseminate warnings to governments and agencies worldwide.
Provide smaller, accurate predictions first to build credibility.
Assist in evacuation and disaster preparedness, especially for high-risk areas.
Monitor global geological activity and adjust warnings accordingly.
"This is a good start," Marcus said. "But we'll need more specifics and proof."
"I can help gather geological data," Michelle offered. "Leverage my scientific contacts."
"I'll liaise with military and security agencies," Kristina said. "They're more receptive to such information, especially when national security is involved."
"I'll research historical disaster responses," Eunice added. "Learn from the past."
"I can organize field assessments," Nasser suggested. "Identify the most vulnerable areas and best evacuation routes."
"Alicia and I will coordinate overall efforts," Yeh Yao said. "Ensure everything moves toward the same goal."
With the plan set, they sprang into action. Marcus provided office space, equipment, and resources. He also arranged meetings with other Watchers and external experts.
The following weeks were a whirlwind of challenges and progress. They successfully predicted minor earthquakes, boosting their credibility. Some governments began taking their warnings seriously, drafting response plans.
Yet, skepticism persisted. Some officials dismissed their alerts as fearmongering. Scientists questioned their methods. Some even suspected ulterior motives—market manipulation or political schemes.
Facing these hurdles, the six remained united. They knew that even saving a fraction of lives would be worth it.
One evening, over a simple dinner at a Hong Kong eatery, they allowed themselves a brief respite.
"Sometimes I wonder," Nasser said, sipping beer, "where we'd be and what we'd be doing if we hadn't encountered those monsters or received the relics."
"I'd still be in a lab, studying obscure chemical reactions," Michelle smiled. "Completely unaware of what the world was facing."
"Digging up ancient pottery shards at some excavation site," Eunice said. "Trying to reconstruct history from dust."
"Deployed in a warzone, maybe," Kristina mused. "Or training recruits to survive and fight."
"Surfing on Sabah's beaches or exploring jungles," Nasser grinned. "Chasing the next thrill."
"And Alicia and I would still be on campus," Yeh Yao said, glancing at her. "Living ordinary, happy student lives."
"Fate works in strange ways," Alicia mused. "Bringing six people from different worlds together, giving us the power and duty to change everything."
"I don't believe it's coincidence," Eunice said. "Many ancient cultures speak of 'chosen ones'—heroes summoned in times of crisis. Perhaps that's us."
"Fate or not," Yeh Yao raised his glass, "I'm grateful to have gone through this with you. To friendship, courage, and hope."
"To a better future," the others echoed, clinking glasses.
In that moment, despite the enormity of their task, they felt a profound bond and purpose. They were no longer just six individuals but a team, a family, facing one of the world's greatest crises together.
The next morning, they returned to work. Marcus brought good news—several major governments had begun heeding their warnings, drafting evacuation plans.
"It's a start," he said. "But we need more nations onboard, especially along the Pacific Ring of Fire."
"We need stronger evidence," Michelle said. "Perhaps a field expedition?"
Nasser agreed. "Theories are good, but firsthand observations might convince more people."
They decided on an expedition to Indonesia, one of the first predicted eruption sites. Marcus arranged permits and gear, and a week later, the six flew to Jakarta.
Indonesia, an archipelago straddling the Pacific Ring of Fire, was home to some of the world's most active volcanoes. According to Dr. Morris's predictions, it would be one of the Cataclysm's epicenters.
In Jakarta, they met with local geologists and volcanologists. Initially skeptical, the experts grew attentive as the team presented detailed data.
"These predictions align with our recent observations," one volcanologist admitted. "We've noted increased activity but hadn't considered simultaneous eruptions."
"That's our concern," Michelle explained. "Our models suggest these won't be isolated events but a chain reaction with global consequences."
With local help, they organized an expedition to Mount Merapi, Java's most active volcano and one of the first predicted to erupt.
Merapi loomed majestically, its peak shrouded in clouds. Revered by locals, it was both a giver of fertile soil and a bringer of destruction.
Guided by locals, the six ascended its slopes to the edge of the safety zone. Even there, they could feel the heat and power beneath, hear the deep rumbles, see sulfurous fumes seeping from cracks.
"Activity here is indeed higher than usual," a volcanologist confirmed, checking readings. "But not yet at evacuation levels."
"Our models predict a major eruption in three months," Michelle said. "But precursors will increase."
"We should start evacuation planning," Kristina urged. "Especially for villages closest to the volcano."
"But if we're wrong, we'll cause unnecessary panic and economic loss," a local official worried.
"Compared to potential lives lost, that's a risk worth taking," Yeh Yao said firmly. "We're not urging immediate evacuation—just preparedness."
After further discussion, officials agreed to draft detailed plans. A small victory, but it meant their efforts were bearing fruit.
Over the next days, they visited other volcanic regions, gathering data and assisting with preparations. Each success bolstered their confidence.
But as they prepared to return to Hong Kong, alarming news broke—Merapi was showing abnormal activity, far sooner than predicted.
"This can't be right," Michelle said, reviewing fresh data. "Our models indicated major activity in three months."
"Maybe our timeline is off," Eunice speculated. "Or Dr. Morris's predictions weren't precise."
"Whatever the reason, we must return to Merapi," Yeh Yao decided. "Assess the situation and help."
They diverted their helicopter back to Merapi. From above, they saw thick smoke billowing from the crater—far more than days prior. Villages were already evacuating, roads clogged with fleeing families.
On the ground, they joined emergency responders. The situation was dire—seismic activity had spiked, magma was rising, and an eruption seemed imminent within days.
"We need to accelerate evacuations," Kristina said, surveying the chaos. "Especially in the highest-risk zones."
"But roads are jammed," an official fretted. "And many refuse to leave, fearing loss of homes and livelihoods."
"We need more transport and clearer routes," Nasser suggested. "Maybe military assistance?"
"I'll contact my Indonesian military colleagues," Kristina said, pulling out her phone. "Request emergency aid."
"We also need better predictions," Michelle said. "Determine how much time we have."
"Perhaps... we should consider using the relics," Alicia said softly but firmly. "If things are this dire, it may be necessary."
The others paused, considering. They'd sealed the relics for all but the most critical needs. Now, facing potential disaster, that moment seemed to have arrived.
"You're right," Yeh Yao finally said. "If the relics can mitigate this and save lives, it's our duty to use them."
"But we sealed them in China," Nasser pointed out. "How do we awaken them here?"
"Master Li said the relics' power remains tied to us," Michelle recalled. "In true need, we can summon them."
"Then let's try," Kristina decided. "If ever there was a time to need them, it's now."
Finding a quiet spot, the six formed a circle, closed their eyes, and focused, seeking their connection to the relics.
At first, nothing. But as they concentrated, visualizing the relics and their power, a familiar energy stirred within them. Then, a brilliant flash—the six relics materialized before them, hovering midair, pulsing with light.
"It worked!" Nasser exclaimed, grabbing the Earth Shatterer, reveling in its familiar weight.
The others reclaimed their relics, feeling joy and strength in the reunion. The relics seemed even more potent, as if they too had grown during their dormancy.
"Now, let's see what we can do," Yeh Yao said, gripping the Phoenix Sword. "First, we help evacuate the highest-risk areas."
They split into two teams—Yeh Yao, Alicia, and Michelle aiding evacuations, while Nasser, Eunice, and Kristina headed toward the crater to mitigate the eruption.
The first team used the Phoenix Twin Swords, and Dragon's Wrath to create safe passages and shelters, guiding villagers to safety. The blades could briefly tear space-time, creating portals, while the staff manipulated water to clear obstacles and form makeshift bridges.
The second team faced greater peril. Nearing the crater, they wielded the Earth Shatterer to stabilize the ground, the Whispering Gale to divert toxic gases, and the Angel's Blessing to shield against lava and debris.
It was a race against time, a battle against nature's fury. The six pushed their relics to the limit, knowing they might not stop the eruption entirely but could save countless lives.
As hours passed, the situation worsened. Tremors intensified, the air grew thick with sulfur. Yet evacuations progressed, with most villagers reaching safety.
Just as hope flickered, Merapi roared to life—not a mere eruption, but a cataclysmic explosion that could reshape the region.
"We need to combine our power!" Yeh Yao called through the relics' bond. "Form a unified barrier to contain the blast!"
Rallying, the six joined forces, their relics converging into a massive energy shield enveloping the danger zone.
The eruption's force collided with the barrier, unleashing deafening noise and blinding light. The six strained under the pressure, as if bearing the weight of the world. But they held firm, pouring every ounce of will into the shield.
Finally, the eruption's fury was redirected toward uninhabited areas, its worst effects contained. As the initial blast subsided, the six gasped for breath—but knew this was only the beginning.
"We've succeeded—for now," Michelle panted. "But data suggests more eruptions are coming."
"We need backup," Eunice said. "Even with the relics, we can't hold this forever."
"I've alerted the Watchers and governments," Yeh Yao said. "Help is coming. Until then, we hold the line."
For days, the six rotated shifts, using the relics to suppress volcanic activity and protect evacuees. They snatched brief rests between efforts, but their work paid off—despite ongoing eruptions, casualties and damage were far lower than feared.
At last, international aid arrived—experts, rescuers, and equipment from across the globe. The Watchers coordinated the response.
With reinforcements in place, the six finally stepped back, retreating to a command center to debrief with international teams.
"You've done the impossible," a UN official praised. "Without your warnings and actions, casualties could've been far worse."
"But this is just the start," Yeh Yao cautioned. "Our models predict this eruption is the first in a global chain. More challenges lie ahead."
"Global monitoring and preparations have begun," the official assured. "Your warnings have proven accurate—governments are now taking the rest seriously."
It was a turning point—their efforts had gained recognition. Yet the road ahead remained fraught. The Cataclysm's shadow lingered; their mission was far from over.
As they prepared to depart for the next predicted hotspot, shocking news arrived—Marcus Chen had been attacked in Hong Kong and hospitalized.
"We must return immediately," Yeh Yao declared. "Marcus isn't just our ally—he's the key to the Watchers' resources. We need him."
The six rushed back to Hong Kong, minds racing with worry and questions. Who would attack Marcus? Why? Was it tied to their mission? Answers awaited them in Hong Kong.