Chapter fourteen

Despite the long and exhausting journey, Ryan and Max finally arrived at the foot of the mountain. They looked up at the towering peak, feeling a mixture of excitement and trepidation.

"We made it, boy," Ryan said, patting Max's head. "Now, let's get to the top."

They started the ascent, slowly and steadily making their way up the winding path. The air grew thinner, and Ryan's legs began to ache, but he refused to give up. He had come too far to turn back now.

As they climbed higher, the wind picked up, and the temperature dropped. Ryan pulled his coat tighter around himself and looked up at the peak. It seemed so close yet so far.

Finally, after what seemed like hours, they reached the summit. Ryan collapsed onto the ground, gasping for breath. Max panted heavily beside him, his tongue lolling out of his mouth.

But as they caught their breath, Ryan realized that they weren't alone. A figure was standing at the edge of the peak, looking out over the horizon.

Ryan stood up, squinting t