Chapter 58: The Mystery of the Mountain

The base of the mountain loomed ahead, imposing and rugged, casting deep shadows across the landscape. The team stood in silence, taking in the sheer scale of the task before them. It was one thing to plan an expedition in the safety of New Haven, but quite another to face the raw, untamed wilderness of the mountain itself. George felt the weight of responsibility settle over him, but as he glanced around at his friends, their determination bolstered his resolve.

With a steadying breath, he led the way, carefully picking a path up the steep incline. The air was crisp and thin, carrying the scent of pine and earth, and every sound seemed amplified, the crunch of boots on rock, the soft rustle of leaves in the wind, the distant call of a bird echoing through the trees.