The Eternal Journey

Chapter 6: The ascent

Aric awoke to the bitter cold of the highlands, the thin air making his breathing shallow and rapid. The fire had long since burned down, leaving just a faint glow from the embers. The sky remained dark, with the stars disappearing as the first indications of dawn appeared on the horizon. The great solitude of the mountains surrounding him, punctuated only by the odd murmur of the wind through the jagged cliffs.

Selene was already awake, packing their gear quietly and efficiently. Her breath became foggy in the chilly air, and her attitude was one of focused determination. Aric rubbed his hands together, attempting to dispel the chill that had sunk into his bones throughout the night. He could feel the weight of the climb ahead, the intimidating heights that loomed over them, still cloaked in shade.

"Good morning," Selene said softly yet steadily. "We'll need to start early if we want to reach the temple by nightfall."

Aric nodded, his determination strengthening. He hurriedly packed his possessions, the cold making his fingers rigid and slow. The terrain they had traversed yesterday was difficult, but today's ascent would be even more treacherous. The way ahead would lead them into the heart of the mountains, where the air would be thinner, the cold would be harsher, and the dangers would be far higher.

As they headed out, the first rays of dawn began to illuminate the summits, casting a delicate, golden tone across the snow-covered slopes. The climb began almost immediately, with the path steep and tight, forcing them to go with caution. The pebbles were slick with frost, and each step had to be precise to avoid slipping on the icy surface.

As they ascended, the wind became stronger, ripping through their garments and stinging their faces. Aric tightened his cloak around himself, his breath coming in short bursts that hung in the cold air. Despite the cold and difficulties of the climb, he felt exhilarated. The sheer magnitude of the mountains, their ancient and immovable presence, was breathtaking.

Selene led the way with elegant, precise motions. She appeared undeterred by the height, her steps firm and steady despite the hazardous terrain. Aric followed closely, his body throbbing from the exertion but his spirit unwavering. He had come this far, and he was not going to give up now.

As they climbed, the scenery surrounding them changed. The scant flora on the lower slopes gave way to barren rock and ice, making the land more uneven and unstable. As they climbed higher into the mountains, the air thinned and each breath became more difficult. The sun, having completely risen, provided little warmth, its brightness stark and chilly against the white expanse of snow.

Around midday, they reached a tiny ridge with a route no bigger than a few feet. On one side, a vertical cliff plunged into a frightening abyss, while on the other, the mountain wall looked steep and formidable. The ridge was exposed to the full power of the wind, which howled around them like a live creature, tearing at their clothes and threatening to knock them off balance.

Selene paused, turning to face Aric. Her expression was serious, and her eyes scanned his face for any signs of hesitation. "This is the most dangerous part of the climb," she remarked, barely audible through the wind. "A misstep here might be deadly. Take your time and remain close to the wall.

Aric gulped hard, the weight of her words sinking in. He looked down the sheer drop to his left, his stomach lurching at the prospect of the emptiness below. But there was no other option: they had to traverse the ridge to reach the temple.

"I understand," he said, his voice firm despite the anxiety gnawing at his insides. "I'll be careful."

They began the crossing, with Selene leading the way in cautious, deliberate strides. Aric followed, his pulse thumping in his chest and every muscle in his body tensed in concentration. The wind screamed about them, pushing at his cloak and making it difficult to keep his balance. He kept his gaze set on the ground, concentrating on each step, the weight of the drop beneath him weighing heavily on his thoughts.