Part I: Six Packages, Six Journeys, One Big Wooden Door

52 53 The Chosen: Battle with a Cerberosian Prince The Summit “That’s cool. That’s one place I’d like to visit one day.” “It’s overrated. Nothing to write home about really.” “Everyone says that about their hometown, though.” “Well, one great thing about LA… A handsome young man, who is extremely athletic, and is quite articulate and intelligent, can be found there.” “Wow. Well, that’s officially my cue,” she said, starting to get up. “Later, Tumi.” He stayed out on the rooftop for a little while longer. Between the refreshing, scenic experience, and the lighthearted conversation with Tumi, TJ thought he’d attempt to get some sleep. It was successful. Despite his night-time sleeping struggles and his sluggish starts to his days, TJ somehow always had energy to get through the day like any other person. Today was no different. Making his way to the conference room, he felt ready for the challenge ahead. He wanted to prove his athleticism. Not to anyone else, self-proof. He knew this would be a demanding experience, but he had no doubt in his mind that he would conquer the mountain that had defied many. Let’s get this, TJ! he said to himself. As he entered the conference room, he wasn’t late, nor was he the last one like last time. In the room was Dorjee and his team of sherpas. Fang was standing by his sherpa, expressionless as always. Ana was talking to her sherpa, oozing with enthusiasm in everything she said and did. TJ walked over to Dorjee and greeted him, turned to Fang, greeted him, and before he could greet Ana, she ran up to him and said hello. This early in the morning, he expected to be annoyed by her, but the adrenaline running through him made him feel untouchable. He went over to his sherpa, greeting him, too, and waited for the others to arrive. Pippa and Tumi followed shortly after. Ethan was the last to arrive, only a few minutes late. “Sorry, everyone,” Ethan said as he hurried across the room. Dorjee addressed them, recapping what they had discussed the previous evening, and covering what they didn’t get through. The morning incorporated both information briefing and pre-climbing training. Dorjee handed over the remainder of the session to his team of sherpas. Each lead sherpa had their own group of porters and sherpas who would be dedicated to each individual climber. They took some time discussing food, diets, clothing, gear, oxygen, communication, and climbing terminology. Without their sherpas, the inexperienced climbers had no chance of success. They were as much of a lifeline as their oxygen tanks. Once the final touches of their preparation were complete, they were ready to leave. Rounding everyone together, Dorjee gave this announcement: “A final reminder. There is no cell phone coverage up in the mountains. So, this will be your last chance to communicate with family, and anyone else of importance in your life. You will be disconnected for the next two months.” “What!” Pippa exclaimed. “What about my streaks?” Dorjee and the rest of the sherpa crew had befuddled expressions on their faces. The climbers were shaking their heads, with combinations of laughter and exclamations of frustration.