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

68 69 The Chosen: Battle with a Cerberosian Prince The Summit “Thanks, TJ,” Ana said with a wide smile on her face. She then turned back and yelled at Fang and Ethan, “I haven’t forgotten about you two. We’ll continue this tomorrow.” They both continued walking, shaking their heads as they retreated to their tents. At the crack of dawn, Dorjee woke everyone up. It took them all a few moments to get ready. Once they were ready, they all went outside. Their bodies shivered, endlessly. With the heavy clothing and gear on their bodies, they made their way to the meeting point. The rigidity of their limbs, as they walked from their tents was strenuous, yet pain free. As they stood before Dorjee, awaiting further instructions, the whistles of the freezing wind were a taste of the conditions that lay ahead. “You’ve made it to the final leg. All that’s left is the actual Summit. Today marks the beginning of a life-changing experience for you all. As challenging as the past weeks have been, the following days will determine the worth of that pain and sacrifice.” “Finally. Let’s do this,” TJ exclaimed. “Yeah, we’re ready,” Ethan added. Their eagerness was evident. Dorjee was impressed to see their enthusiasm to begin the climb. In most cases the nerves overshadow the excitement. His respect for this group of young climbers continued to increase with every passing interaction. Unbeknownst to him, though, their positive outlook had very little to do with the climb itself. They were looking forward to finally getting answers to the many questions that accompanied their journey. “I’m loving the energy, guys. Before we begin, let’s make a final equipment and gear check with your sherpas. And I would like to remind you all that you have the option of having your sherpa and his team carry your gear. In fact, for the Summit itself, I always recommend that you utilize that option if you can afford it. Which you guys can, so please do.” All the climbers took Dorjee’s recommendation. Except TJ. As soon as Dorjee had finished making that recommendation, TJ had picked up all his gear and stood beside Dorjee, indicating his readiness to begin the hike. “Are you sure about this, TJ?” Dorjee asked. “Yes sir. I’m good.” “OK then,” Dorjee replied. Remembering TJ’s trek to base camp, Dorjee had seen enough to feel comfortable with his decision. He just preferred to err on the side of caution. Not to be outdone, Fang followed suit. “They’re at it again,” Tumi said to Pippa, who rolled her eyes in response. “These two fools,” Ethan said. Ana was preoccupied with getting herself in the right frame of mind. She kept checking and rechecking her equipment and gear with her sherpa. She even had a little mantra that she would say to herself to keep calm: “Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving forward.” Pippa and Tumi walked towards her. “You’ve got this, Ana,” Pippa said.