The ascent into the Shadowed Mountains felt like an eternity. The narrow path twisted and turned, hemmed in by jagged cliffs on one side and a sheer drop on the other. The air was thin, and each breath felt like a laborious task as they climbed higher into the darkness. The cold gnawed at their bones, but none of them spoke; their focus was solely on the path ahead.
Elara led the group, her eyes constantly scanning the terrain. Every step felt heavy, not just from the physical exertion but from the weight of what they were about to face. Behind her, Morgana walked with a determined stride, despite the exhaustion evident in her every movement. The others followed closely, each of them silent, their minds set on the mission at hand.
