[MT-2] Mt. Tinder 2

Journal Entry - Ashore

As I stand on the shore of Mount Tinder's island, memories of Vragi's journey flood my mind. He had embarked on this adventure before me, sharing just enough to pique my curiosity. His tales were a blend of mystery and excitement, leaving me eager for my turn. In hushed whispers, Vragi spoke of the island's wild beauty, cliffs reaching for the heavens, and dense forests whispering ancient tales. He carefully chose his words, preserving the thrill of discovery for me. His stories were a gift, igniting my imagination and fueling my longing for adventure.

Now, with each step closer to the heart of the island, Vragi's words echo in my mind. His intentions were pure, his desire to gift me the joy of unspoiled discovery unmistakable. As the sun sets, casting its final embrace upon the shores, I feel a surge of excitement. Tomorrow, I will venture deeper into this untamed wilderness, carrying Vragi's spirit with me.

As Celandine's small boat glided through the crystalline waters, she marveled at the sight before her. The island containing Mount Tinder loomed majestically in the distance, a silhouette of rugged cliffs and lush vegetation against the canvas of the open sea. The sunlight danced upon the waves, casting a golden glow that seemed to beckon her closer.

The anticipation swelled within her chest, her heart pounding with a mix of excitement and reverence. The salty breeze tousled her hair and fur as she gripped the boat's oars, propelling herself forward with determined strokes. As she drew closer, the details of the island sharpened. The cliffs rose dramatically, their formidable stature standing guard over the hidden secrets within. Verdant foliage adorned the slopes, vibrant hues of green painting a tapestry of life against the rugged terrain. Celandine's eyes traced the shoreline, spotting a gathering of fellow participants. As her boat glided to a gentle halt, Celandine paused, taking a final moment to absorb the grandeur of the island. The distant rumble of the volcanic peak reverberated through the air, a reminder of the power and awe that awaited her. With a deep breath, she anchored her boat and stepped onto the edge of the vessel, her paws hovering above the water. With a leap of faith, she hopped onto the shore, toes sinking into the warm sand.

Her eyes scanned the surroundings, taking in the contrasting sights before her. To the east, the trail seemed weathered and worn, marked by the relentless pounding of sea waves. Erosion had left its mark, creating a sense of vulnerability. Yet, the elderly guide assured everyone that the path had been maintained and prepared for the occasion. This assurance provided a glimmer of reassurance to the less confident travelers.

To the west, a different scene unfolded. The air was dry, almost parched, carrying with it fine particles of beach sand carried over from across the water and swirling, dark ash from the caldera. The wind howled against the side of Mount Tinder, whipping up miniature cyclones of sand and ash that danced along the trail. It was a harsh and unforgiving path, a testament to the raw power of nature.

Celandine's keen gaze absorbed the details, analyzing the pros and cons of each route. The East, though weathered, held a sense of resilience, its challenges well-known and potentially more manageable. The West, on the other hand, presented a harsher environment, promising a rugged and arduous journey.

Thoughts raced through Celandine's mind as she weighed her options. The allure of the East's maintained path tempted her with its familiarity and potential ease of travel. But the call of the West, with its untamed wilderness and elemental forces, stirred something within her adventurous spirit. In the end, Celandine's decision was made. She yearned for a challenge, to test her mettle against the relentless winds and the abrasive sands. With a determined glint in her eyes, she stepped forward, choosing the western path that would lead her through the desert-like landscape toward the towering peak of Mount Tinder.

As she took her first steps, the wind tugged at her hair and the grains of sand stung her skin. But amidst the grit and the gusts, Celandine felt a surge of exhilaration. She embraced the untamed beauty of the island, eager to discover what awaited her.