Author's Note: This first chapter is more of an introduction/prologue.
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Chapter One: The Ascent
It's sunset. I'm at the bottom of an isolated mountain, surrounded by the sea. The atmosphere feels somewhat ominous, perhaps even haunted. I can hear the harsh sea winds gushing past me and blowing my hair all over the place. I'm pacing around trying to find a way to get away from here. But then, I notice a stone staircase that seems to go around the mountain. There is a heavily weathered sign next to it with a faded arrow pointing upwards and some barely legiable text saying 'Summit'. Maybe I'll find someone further up the mountain who'll help me. And so I begin the ascent.
The sky is becoming darker and darker. I feel like I've been climbing these stairs for half an hour at least. I just keep going; it's my only choice. I don't dare look over the edge as I'm of a nervous disposition and the darkness and unfamiliarity of this place already makes me scared. As I've ascended further up this mountain, I can see that this mountain is somewhat forested. Through the sea winds, I hear the rustling of bushes and the snapping of twigs. The scent of burnt wood wafts in the air. Perhaps there are some people camping somewhere around here. Good.
I'm becoming weaker with every step. It's now completely dark; I can barely see my surroundings. How long is this going to take? Where am I even going? Through the wind, I'm hearing some strange, high-pitched growls and they are sounding like they're coming towards me. Not only that but the sounds of twigs and branches snapping is filling the air. My heartbeat is racing. I want to run but I can't; I'm paralysed in fear. Suddenly, a jet of flames burst out a few metres ahead of me. I can only scream...