Rough descent

As they resumed their descent, the mountain revealed more of its nature.

The once relatively smooth paths gave way to steep, treacherous slopes and narrow passages where the wind howled like a chorus of ancient spirits. 

At times, they had to scramble over fallen boulders slick with ice, each movement a careful negotiation with gravity and nature. 

In these moments, the two warriors would exchange quiet words of encouragement, drawing strength from one another.

"Argolaith, remember the runic arrays we studied?" Kaelred asked as they clambered over a particularly dangerous section.

 "They taught us that even in chaos, there is order. Let that order guide your steps."

"Indeed," Argolaith replied, adjusting his footing on a narrow ledge. "Every tremor, every gust of wind, is part of the mountain's will. We must learn to move with it, not against it."

Days passed as they slowly made their way down, every hour a test of endurance.