The mountain no longer resisted him the same way.
It had not become easier.
The climb was still harsh.
The cold still bit into his skin.
The air was still thin and demanding.
But something had changed.
It had… accepted him.
Not as a victor.
Not as someone worthy yet.
But as someone who would not turn back.
Karna walked forward with steady steps.
His body was still tired.
Still strained from days of relentless climbing.
His muscles ached.
His limbs carried weight.
But his mind—
Was no longer shaken.
There was no hesitation left in him.
No doubt whispering from within.
Only movement.
Only purpose.
The path had changed again.
The sharp rocks that once cut into his feet—
Slowly gave way to smoother stone.
The ground was still uneven.
Still difficult.
But it no longer felt hostile.
The wind, though still cold—
No longer struck him like an enemy.
It brushed past him.
Circled him.
Moved around him—
Not against him.
As if the mountain itself—
