After hours of traveling through the dense forest aboard Rokan, the group finally reached the foot of the twin mountains. The journey had been surprisingly smooth, unmarred by any beastly encounters, thanks to their formidable guide. As they dismounted, the sight before them was awe-inspiring—a flight of ancient stairs carved into the mountain, stretching upwards toward the sky and disappearing into the mist at the apex.
Rhox slid off Rokan's back and patted the beast's sturdy flank. "Thank you, Rokan," she said, her voice filled with genuine gratitude.
Joize, taking note of the name for the first time, raised an eyebrow. "Oh, Rokan is its name?" She approached and gave Rokan a friendly pat on the back, adding, "Thanks, Rokan. We owe you our lives and then some!"
The rest of the group followed suit, expressing their thanks. Morn, with a respectful nod, said, "Appreciate the safe passage, big fella." Nira, always practical, added, "You saved us a lot of trouble out there. Thanks."
The group then proceeded to what appeared to be the entrance to the twin mountains, where the first steps of the stairs were located. The stairs were inscribed with symbols unfamiliar to most of them. Rhox, however, recognized the symbols as they matched those she had seen on the stone tablets in the ruins with Vekx.
A whisper echoed inside Rhox's head, Vekx's voice, saying, "You tread upon hollow grounds, child."
Rhox responded in her mind, "On whose hollow ground exactly?"
Vekx replied, "Ayema, god of the earth and skies."
With this knowledge, Rhox and the rest of the group proceeded cautiously. They knew they were not merely climbing a mountain but entering sacred ground. Their goal was to eventually meet an individual named "Kahrin," who would lead them to the "lands in between," thought to contain the relic that Joize had been searching for.
Rhox took the first step onto the ancient stairs, feeling a strange mix of anticipation and reverence. She looked back one last time towards Rokan, waving goodbye.
"I await the time when the great fleet will fly upon the astral sea once more...till we meet again...Rhox," Rokan said telepathically to Rhox before his massive form faded into mist, leaving them behind.
After a few moments of preparation, ensuring their gear was secure and taking a final breather, the whole group began their ascent. The climb was steep and challenging, each step feeling heavier as they progressed.
"Anyone else feel like these stairs are never-ending?" Lox joked, trying to lighten the mood as he adjusted his pack.
Brek, always one to join in the banter, replied, "Just think of it as leg day, every day!"
Joize, walking alongside Rhox, remarked, "Let's hope this 'Kahrin' is worth the climb. If not, I'm throwing him or her down these stairs myself."
Vincent, scanning their surroundings with his helmet, said, "Stay alert, everyone. Sacred grounds or not, we don't know what we're walking into."
As they continued their ascent, the air grew thinner, and the symbols on the steps seemed to glow faintly in the dim light. The higher they climbed, the more the group felt the weight of the journey, both physically and spiritually.
Morn, ever the realist, commented, "Feels like we're climbing to meet the gods themselves."
Nira, her eyes fixed on the path ahead, added, "Let's just hope they're in a welcoming mood."
Despite the fatigue setting in, the group pressed on, driven by the promise of answers and the determination to uncover the secrets that lay at the mountain's peak. Each step brought them closer to their destination, the anticipation building with every breath they took.
Still climbing and nowhere near the summits of the twin mountains, the group grew exhausted after a few hours. The air grew colder, and their breaths became labored as they ascended higher. As night fell, the decision was made to set up camp and rest for the night. The rocky terrain provided little comfort, but the group made do with what they had.
"Damn, this is one tall mountain, I tell ye," Morn said, lying down on his makeshift bedding, his voice echoing his fatigue.
Joize chuckled, her laughter a welcome sound in the otherwise silent night. "You meant twin mountains, lad?" she corrected, her tone teasing yet encouraging.
"We've been climbing these steps for exactly 891 steps. We've got a long way to go," Vincent stated matter-of-factly, sitting on a stone and meticulously wiping his rifle with a rag. His precision and calm demeanor were a stark contrast to the weariness in the camp.
Sounds of amazement and shock filled the camp as the others processed Vincent's words. "You've been counting all your steps?" Joize asked, raising an eyebrow in surprise. "That's damn impressive if you tell me."
Vincent nodded at Joize, a hint of pride in his eyes. "Yep, it's my own way of staying focused," he replied, his tone steady and resolute.
"I respect that," Joize said, her voice carrying genuine admiration. She knew the climb was as much a mental challenge as it was a physical one, and Vincent's method of coping was commendable.
Rhox, on the other hand, was lost in concentration. She sat slightly apart from the group, peering upwards at the skies, her eyes reflecting the stunning stars and galaxies. The vastness of the universe was a comforting constant amidst their perilous journey. As she absorbed the celestial beauty, the rest of the party talked about different topics in front of a crackling bonfire, the warm glow providing a semblance of normalcy.
Nira, always practical, was tending to the fire. "This climb better be worth it," she muttered, her hands busy arranging the wood.
Brek, trying to lighten the mood, joked, "Hey, if nothing else, we can say we climbed a mountain that's taller than our will to quit. That's gotta count for something."
Lox, ever the optimist, added, "Think of the view from the top! I bet you can see the whole universe from up there."
Morn, chuckling, said, "Or at least we can see where we tripped on the way down."
Joize, smiling at their banter, said, "Alright, lads. Let's get some rest. We have a lot more climbing to do tomorrow." She glanced at Rhox, noting her distant expression. "You okay over there, Rhox?"
Rhox turned her gaze back to the group, a small smile playing on her lips. "Just taking in the view," she replied softly. "It's beautiful up here."
Joize nodded, understanding the need for a moment of peace amidst the chaos. "It is. But don't forget, we've got a mission. Let's get some shut-eye. We need to be at our best for whatever's waiting for us at the top."
As the group settled down for the night, the air filled with the soft sounds of their breathing and the occasional crackle of the fire. Despite the exhaustion, there was a sense of camaraderie and determination that bound them together. The climb was far from over, but they faced it with resolve, knowing that each step brought them closer to their goal.
The murmurs from the background started to fade as Rhox slowly drifted to sleep, knowing that she would have a visitor—the dark beast. The soft conversations of her companions and the crackling of the fire seemed distant as she surrendered to the inevitable darkness.
Whistling winds echoed faintly in Rhox's ears, and as the cold crept in, she opened her eyes to find herself standing in a world filled with darkness, emptiness, and an overwhelming sense of dread. The void was palpable, a tangible presence that weighed heavily on her.
As Rhox looked around, she noticed a dim light in the distance. Drawn to it, she walked towards the glow. As she approached, the light intensified, illuminating her surroundings so blindingly that she was forced to shield her eyes with her arms.
When she finally uncovered her eyes, she was met with an astonishing sight. Countless destinations, each with stunning landscapes and breathtaking sights, stretched out before her. She saw diverse civilizations and their inhabitants, their faces carefree and joyous. She could see the horizon she had always admired from afar, a world she wished to explore without the burden of vengeance.
Yet, deep inside, Rhox knew she could never rest until she avenged the death of her brother. The fire of revenge burned bright within her, overshadowing her desires for peace and exploration. She was willing to give her life or abandon her ambitions to see justice served.
As the scenes of beauty and happiness began to fade, the surroundings darkened once again. The cold breeze settled in, and the oppressive void returned.
"Such beauty... such tragedy... A tribulation of all your sufferings... A collection of all your dreams... your destiny... awaits... Rhox," the voice of the dark beast resonated through the void.
"Destiny, huh..." Rhox replied, her voice tinged with both curiosity and defiance.
"A destiny... bound by revenge... bound by blood and fire... intertwined with the fate of everything... you shall understand in due time... stay your course... and everything, including your dreams... shall come true," the voice continued, its tone haunting and prophetic.
"Don't worry, dark beast... the emperor's fate is already written in blood," Rhox declared, her resolve unwavering.
After what seemed like mere moments, Rhox awoke to find it was already morning. Her companions were busy preparing to resume their climb. Feeling well-rested, Rhox stretched her body and donned her long coat, ready to face the day's challenges.
Morn noticed her stirring and grinned. "You look like you've seen a ghost," he joked, trying to lighten the mood.
"More like a nightmare," Rhox replied with a wry smile, her eyes reflecting the weight of her dreams.
"Ready for another day of endless steps?" Joize asked, her tone cheerful despite the daunting climb ahead.
"Let's get to it," Rhox said, her determination clear. She glanced one last time at the sky, the memory of her dream lingering as they began their ascent once more. The group, united in purpose, resumed their journey up the twin mountains, each step bringing them closer to their goal.
Rhox continued to follow behind Joize until she suddenly stopped in her tracks, sensing something amiss. Joize looked back at her, concern evident in her eyes. "What's wrong, Rhox?"
Rhox closed her eyes and touched the ground they were stepping on, focusing on the vibrations beneath. She felt a faint rumble growing stronger, and her eyes snapped open in alarm. Looking up, she saw the shadow of massive rocks tumbling down the mountainside towards them.
"Falling rocks!" Rhox shouted, her voice urgent.
"Shit!" Vincent yelled, his reflexes kicking in. "Dodge away! Move!"
The group scrambled to avoid the oncoming avalanche of rocks. Joize, Vincent, and Rhox managed to dodge the boulders, but the chaos claimed one of Joize's crew members. Lox, who had been caught in the wrong place at the wrong time, was struck by a massive rock and crushed instantly.
"NOOOO!!" Joize's anguished cry echoed through the mountains as she saw Lox's lifeless body pinned under the boulder.
Joize ran towards Lox, her heart pounding with fear and anger. The rest of the crewmen gathered around, trying to assess the situation. One of them, Brek, looked up at Joize, his face pale. "N-No good, captain," he said, his voice trembling.
With anger and sorrow etched on her face, Joize punched the ground, her frustration boiling over. "Damn it!" she exclaimed, tears of rage and grief in her eyes. "Let's bury him before we continue..."
The group solemnly set to work, digging a grave for Lox beside the steps. The air was heavy with grief and silence as they laid him to rest. Joize took a keepsake from Lox's belongings—a small, worn compass he always carried. She held it tightly, her knuckles white with emotion. "We won't forget you, Lox," she whispered, her voice choked with tears.
As they finished the burial, Morn placed a hand on Joize's shoulder. "He wouldn't want us to stop, Captain. We have to keep going."
Joize nodded, her eyes red but determined. "I know," she said, her voice resolute. "Let's move on."
Vincent, his face grim, added, "We'll honor his memory by finishing what we started."
Rhox, feeling the weight of the loss, looked at Joize. "Are you ready?"
Joize took a deep breath, her grief transforming into steely determination. "Yes. Let's go."
The group continued their climb, each step heavier with the memory of their fallen comrade. Despite their sorrow, they pushed forward, united in their resolve to reach the summit and complete their mission.
After a few more grueling hours of climbing, the group had surpassed half the steps, their path growing dangerously steep as they neared the peak. The terrain was unforgiving, each step a challenge. As if the treacherous incline wasn't enough, they were suddenly greeted by a terrible storm, the skies darkening as great winds howled around them.
Joize's voice fought against the roar of the storm, her words nearly lost to the sounds of rain and powerful gusts. "We must push on! We are almost at the peak!"
The group pressed forward, knowing they had no choice but to keep moving. The path had become too steep to make camp, leaving them with no option but to endure the storm and continue their ascent. The steps grew muddy and slippery, each one a potential deathtrap.
"Is that all you got!? Come on, mates, this storm ain't nothing!" Joize shouted, her voice a beacon of determination. Her crewmen echoed her spirit with cheers and shouts, rallying themselves against the tempest.
With ropes tied to their waists and arms linked for safety, the group climbed as one. Every step was a battle against the elements, their bodies straining against the harsh conditions. The rain pelted them relentlessly, and the wind threatened to tear them from the mountain.
Morn, panting heavily, grumbled, "I've seen easier hikes on jungle planets. This is brutal!"
Nira, ever the practical one, shouted back, "Keep moving, Morn! We didn't come this far to get swept away!"
As they neared the apex, the rumblings of a landslide reached Rhox's ears. She looked up to see a cascade of rocks and debris tumbling down towards their group.
"You've got to be kidding me!" Vincent shouted, his voice a mix of disbelief and fear.
The group's faces mirrored Vincent's dread as they realized the impending doom. Without hesitation, Rhox severed her rope and dashed to the front of the group, her determination unwavering.
"I'm assuming you have something up your sleeve, Rhox!" Joize yelled, trying to keep the panic from her voice.
Rhox wasted no time. She deployed her energy sword and began charging it with greater force, the blade humming with power. The landslide was closing in fast.
"We believe in you, Rhox!" Vincent called out, his voice filled with hope.
Brek, trying to lighten the mood despite the danger, quipped, "If she can handle those bugs back on Lavina, she can handle this!"
As the landslide bore down on them, Rhox completed the charge and swung her blade with all her might. The energy sword cleaved through the mass of rocks and debris, splitting the landslide in two and diverting it away from the party.
"HELL YEAH!" Joize shouted, her voice filled with elation. The rest of the crewmen joined in, their cheers echoing through the storm.
Their victory was short-lived, however, as a stronger rumble heralded an even larger landslide descending upon them. The group's joy turned to despair.
"I-I can't charge my blade anymore!" Rhox exclaimed, panic creeping into her voice.
Joize's face was a mask of frustration and fear. "D-Damn it!"
The crew felt the weight of impending doom settle over them. Rhox, however, knew she had one more option. She closed her eyes, focusing her thoughts, and murmured, "Vekx...heed my call...in time of great peril."
"My child, I have come...yet I do not understand why you have called for me when you are already saved," Vekx's voice echoed in Rhox's mind, calm and serene.
"What do you mean by that?" Rhox asked, confusion coloring her tone.
"Look, my child…she has come…the herald of Ayema," Vekx replied.
Rhox opened her eyes and looked upward. Through the black storm clouds, a sliver of light pierced the darkness, illuminating a figure at the peak holding a staff. Shouts could be heard from the apex, though Rhox couldn't make out the words.
"Who is that?" Morn shouted over the storm, trying to see through the downpour.
The storm and landslide continued to rage until the figure at the peak slammed their staff onto the ground. The impact caused the symbols on the stairs to light up, shining with an ethereal glow. Within moments, the landslide faded into dust, and the ferocious storm was pierced repeatedly by rays of light, until it eventually dissipated, replaced by a serene, almost divine brightness.
The group stood stunned for a split second, then erupted into joyous cheers as the storm and landslide subsided.
"I-I D-Don't know what happened, but we're alive!" Joize exclaimed, her laughter ringing out loudly and contagiously.
Nira, catching her breath, added, "I thought we were goners for sure! This is nothing short of a miracle!"
Brek, always quick with a quip, chuckled, "I don't care what just happened; I'm just glad I get to keep breathing!"
Following a few moments of applause and laughter, the group resumed their climb, spirits buoyed by their miraculous survival. They continued up the stairs, the weight of their exhaustion lightened by the recent events, until they reached the summit of the twin mountains.
At the top, an individual with a wooden staff sat behind a stone tablet inscribed with unknown symbols, seemingly waiting for them. The air was still, charged with an almost palpable sense of significance.
The figure rose gracefully and approached the group, focusing particularly on Rhox. With a deep bow, they spoke in a voice that carried both strength and warmth, "Herald of War…I am Kahrin…it is nice to meet you finally…"