The climb was slow, hard work. The air grew thinner with every foot they gained. Joel moved with practiced ease, his long career as a mercenary king teaching him how to find purchase on even the smallest bumps in the rock.
He used his tools, hammering small metal spikes called pitons into cracks, then looping rope through them to make sure they wouldn't fall far if they slipped.
Reyes followed, his powerful build and quick mind making him a perfect second climber. He often found a better way up, sometimes passing Joel to take the lead on a difficult section.
Hours passed. The sun climbed high, beating down on the red rock, making it hot to the touch. Sweat beaded on their foreheads, stinging their eyes. Their muscles burned.
Below, Viana, Rayne, Arden, and Kaley watched, their necks aching from looking up. They were just tiny specks against the massive cliff face, moving like slow insects.
