> Place our hand onto it.
You place your hand onto it... It doesn't react, but the thing feels pretty cold, now that you think of it.
> Ponder if the temple always was alive.
> Ponder if this thing is causing the illusions.
> Ponder if this thing is a living mimic of the shrine and it is trying to eat us....
You're almost certain this is a recent addition, and isn't really connected to the temple.
You think whatever is behind these illusions... Well, they're somewhat aware of you. This thing isn't paying attention to you.
Nah. That'd be silly.