Havardr was certainly not displeased to see the man return unarmed, though he had wondered if his courage would fail him at what could possibly be the most important moment on his journey to date. He paused and stared deeply at the man as he asked his questions, interesting ones at that, though not what the King would have asked.

“What abilities will you gain?” The King repeated with a throaty chuckle. “I suspect the mountain will teach you her lessons, that the cold is to be weathered and endured and that to stand tall and unshakable is but a matter of perspective. I’m sure you will understand, should you succeed.” Havardr considered the second question, probably the more important at this moment.

“As you may have guessed, this challenge is not like many you have faced. You were supposed to come here now, this is the beginning of the rest of your journey, and as a result you have to be tested… without the powers you have borrowed thus far. If you are worthy, it shall all be returned to you, and with far more.” He shuffled his feet somewhat and bowed slightly.

“Now, the challenge is thus, we will venture you and me to the top of the world, the summit of this mountain, without attacking one another. If you reach the peak alive I will show you the route through the mountain… but to claim my secrets, what you call a ‘Key’ you must reach the summit before me.” The Mountain Goat then strangely began to walk down the mountain towards Kei’taro.

“You should hurry.” He laughed throatily, showing his confidence by providing the challenger with a clear head-start.