When Tarik emerged from the trial by the cliff, his gaze had changed. No longer did fear or doubt dwell in him—only clarity and focus. Ayna watched him, and for the first time during their journey, she smiled openly.
“You’re ready,” she said.
“I can feel it,” he replied, surveying the mountains, which now seemed closer and more majestic than before.
The path leading to the mountains was narrow and winding. The stones beneath their feet occasionally shifted, and the cold wind grew stronger, as though testing their endurance. But Tarik and Ayna walked in silence, understanding that something greater than yet another trial awaited them.
When they finally reached the base of the first mountain peak, Ayna stopped and raised her hand.
“Listen,” she said.
Tarik froze, listening. At first, he heard only the wind howling through the crevices. But soon, another sound joined—the deep, rhythmic rumble, as though the heart of the mountains was beating far beneath their feet.
“What is that?” he asked, his voice barely a whisper.
“The mountains are breathing,” Ayna replied. Her voice was quiet but filled with reverence. “It’s a sign that we are on the right path. But we must be cautious: the mountains sense everything. They will test us just as the cliff did.”
Tarik sighed, trying to gather his thoughts. It seemed that with every step, the path was becoming more difficult. Yet, at the same time, he felt his resolve growing stronger.
They continued on, the path now climbing more steeply. The rumble from the depths grew louder, almost threatening. The stones beneath their feet became slippery, and several times, Tarik nearly slipped, but each time Ayna extended her hand, helping him regain his balance.
At last, they reached a vast plateau, covered in a thin layer of snow that sparkled under the moonlight. In the center of the plateau stood an ancient altar, framed by stone statues depicting mysterious beings—half-human, half-animal.
“This is a place of power,” Ayna spoke solemnly. Her voice was deep and reverent.
“What are we supposed to do here?” Tarik asked, feeling the air around them charged with strange energy.
“Here, we will uncover the next truth,” she replied. “But for that, you must make a choice that will affect not only you but all the worlds that need protection.”
Tarik approached the altar. His heart was racing, but now he was ready. He knew that the most important trial of his life awaited him.