Preparing for the Final Battle

The air was thick with tension as we stood together, dust and adrenaline still clinging to us from our escape from the temple. The artifact pulsed gently in Felix's hands, a reminder of the power we had fought so hard to secure. Around us, the fading light cast long shadows on the landscape, mirroring the shadows that loomed over our hearts as we prepared for what lay ahead.

“We can’t let them take it,” I said, my voice steady despite the fear gnawing at the edges of my resolve. “The artifact is our only chance to turn the tide against the puppeteer.”

Marcus nodded, his expression one of unwavering determination. “We’ve faced impossible odds before and triumphed. We can do it again.” His eyes met mine, and I saw the trust and confidence he placed in me. It bolstered my spirits, reminding me of the journey we had undertaken to reach this point.