Note: This is a continuation of a long running story. To start at the very beginning, click here.
By Takeo
Day 4 – Friday June 14th – An Unexpected Morning
I am still on this rock face that seems endless. My harness is a little too tight and is rubbing against my thighs. But I cannot adjust it now, I need both hands to keep climbing. I’m starting to feel my muscles; it must be three hours since I started the climb. The air is hot and heavy, despite the altitude, and I’m sweating profusely. My hands are clammy. I’m no expert climber, but I enjoy it and am starting to gain quite a bit of experience. This route is clearly the most challenging I have tackled so far. Perhaps too challenging. I hope I can make it to the top without too much trouble. There is no escape route on this climb; once you start, you have to continue to the end.
My thighs hurt and I need a break. I fix one last piton, attach my short rope to it with a carabiner and gently let myself sit down in my harness. I shake both arms to relax them. I drink a little and enjoy the landscape. The mountains are magnificent at this time of year. The snow is not far off, and this will probably be the last outing before the start of the ski season. I take advantage of this break to adjust my harness. I place my feet against the wall and stretch my legs to relieve the tension on the thigh straps. I loosen the one on my right leg slightly, then do the same on the left.
