Further along the path, as the terrain grew more arduous, Argolaith encountered more travelers.
Some were young, brimming with the raw energy of untapped potential; others were older, their faces lined with the wisdom and scars of countless trials.
A few of these individuals radiated magic as if it were an intrinsic part of their very being. In hushed tones, they exchanged greetings and words of encouragement, forming a temporary bond in the shared struggle against the mountain's relentless challenges.
At one such juncture, Argolaith paused near a narrow ledge where an elderly mage with silver hair and deep-set, wise eyes was carefully inscribing runes on a flat stone.
"Keep your focus," the old mage advised in a gravelly voice.
"The mountain's trials will test your mind as well as your body. Let the ancient knowledge guide you, but do not be distracted by vanity or fear."
