Silvertip Mountain I don’t see how he can ever finish, if he doesn’t begin

for @Val and @Aventus

Val was well overdue for his last phase of initiation. He had already proven his strength and his bravery; now it was time to prove his allegiance to the bear. 

Arielle hadn't told Val where they were going or what his initiation would entail. She had asked Aventus not to tell him either. He would know when they arrived. Part of this test was whether or not he would follow them with the little information they had revealed, which wasn't much; just that it was time for his final test. 

They had been careful in the mountains when it seemed likely that a few packs had settled there somewhere. She had chosen to move only at night where they could more easily hide themselves. She was not out here looking for a fight, though if it was what the bear demanded then they would have no choice. 

The Journey had taken three days without much stopping—only to sleep and eat. 

As dawn turned the sky pink and lit up the mountain, Arielle stopped in front of the mouth of the cave that held the remains of the bear. Deeper inside would be a very much alive bear readying herself to wake from her hibernation. She might even have cubs. Soon they would know what the bear had planned for Val. 

She turned first to her husband and offered him smile. Then her focus was on Val. You will enter the cave and wait for the bear, however long it takes. If you run, you will be considered a traitor and killed. But if the bear blesses you with her favor and allows you to live, then you will forever be a part of Ursus. The bruin-heart studied Val closely. How he reacted would determine everything about his future. The healer had felt he was meant for more within Ursus, but only the bear could truly determine that.