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### Chapter 37: The Journey North
Dawn broke over the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink as Ashfall, Kera, Tides, and the trader set out on their journey to the Lost Clans of the North. The air was crisp, filled with the scent of dew on grass and the promise of adventure. With their spirits high, they followed the trader through winding paths that cut through dense forests and open meadows.
**"Keep your eyes peeled,"** the trader advised, leading the way with a steady pace. **"The northern regions are known for their unpredictable weather and hidden dangers. We'll need to be cautious."**
Kera walked beside Ashfall, her gaze scanning the surroundings. **"What do you know about the clans?"** she asked, curiosity lighting her eyes.
**"They're a proud people,"** the trader replied, glancing back at them. **"They value strength and honor above all. If you want to earn their respect, you'll need to demonstrate both."**
Tides chimed in, **"We've proven ourselves by taking down that wolf. Surely they'll recognize our abilities."**
**"Maybe,"** the trader conceded, **"but don't underestimate their traditions. They've been isolated for generations, and they're wary of outsiders."**
### Crossing the River
As they continued on their journey, they approached a wide river, its waters rushing with the force of the spring melt. A rickety bridge spanned the gap, its wood weathered and worn.
**"This is the River Kalth,"** the trader said, motioning toward the bridge. **"It's our only crossing for miles. Be careful; the currents are strong."**
Ashfall stepped forward, examining the bridge. **"Let's cross quickly but cautiously. We don't want to attract attention."**
They moved across the bridge one at a time, the planks creaking beneath their weight. Halfway across, Kera paused, sensing movement in the water below.
**"Do you hear that?"** she whispered, her keen senses alert.
Suddenly, a shape broke the surface—a massive fish-like creature with iridescent scales lunged at the bridge, its maw wide open. Ashfall barely had time to react as Kera lunged forward, her blades ready.
**"Get back!"** she shouted, striking at the creature. The beast recoiled, thrashing violently in the water, sending splashes of cold water over them.
### A Fight for Survival
**"We need to finish this quickly!"** Ashfall yelled, gripping his sword tightly as he moved to flank the creature.
The trader pulled out a fishing spear, determined to help. **"Aim for its eyes! That's its weak spot!"**
Tides summoned his magic, calling forth a barrier of shimmering energy around them to shield against the water splashes. **"Kera, distract it while I prepare an attack!"**
Kera nodded, darting back and forth, her movements swift and agile. She struck at the creature's head, drawing its attention while Ashfall and the trader moved in closer. The beast snapped its jaws, narrowly missing Kera as she danced out of reach.
With a surge of determination, Tides unleashed a bolt of energy, striking the creature directly in one eye. It let out a deafening roar, thrashing wildly as Ashfall took his chance, plunging his sword deep into the creature's side.
### Victory and Relief
The fish creature let out one final, anguished cry before it sank back into the depths of the river, its scales shimmering as it disappeared. The group stood in stunned silence for a moment, catching their breath.
**"That was… intense,"** Tides said, his chest heaving. **"I thought we were done for."**
Kera wiped the sweat from her brow, a grin breaking across her face. **"We did it! Together!"**
The trader chuckled, shaking his head in disbelief. **"You lot have more fight in you than I expected. Let's get moving before more creatures decide to join the party."**
### Climbing the Mountains
After crossing the river, the landscape began to shift. The flat terrain gave way to rolling hills, and soon they found themselves at the base of towering mountains. The air grew cooler, and the scent of pine filled their lungs.
As they ascended, the trader shared stories of the clans that lived in the mountains—tales of fierce warriors and powerful shamans, of celebrations held under the stars, and the trials they faced to prove their worth.
**"What kinds of trials?"** Ashfall inquired, intrigued.
**"Tests of strength, intelligence, and courage,"** the trader replied. **"Each clan has its own customs, but they all require dedication and skill."**
Kera looked pensive. **"What if we fail? What if they don't accept us?"**
**"We won't know unless we try,"** Ashfall encouraged, determination in his voice. **"We've faced our fears and conquered challenges before. This will be no different."**
### The Summit
After hours of climbing, they reached a high plateau where the wind howled fiercely. The view was breathtaking; valleys sprawled below them, and peaks touched the sky.
**"This is it,"** the trader said, pointing toward a distant cluster of tents nestled against the mountainside. **"That's where the clans gather."**
As they descended toward the encampment, Ashfall felt a mix of excitement and apprehension. They were on the brink of something monumental, yet the fear of rejection lingered.
**"Stay close,"** the trader instructed. **"Let me do the talking at first. They'll be wary of outsiders."**
### Entering the Clan's Territory
As they approached the encampment, they could see the clanspeople bustling about, preparing for what seemed like a gathering. The air was thick with the sounds of laughter and the smell of cooking meat.
Suddenly, they were confronted by a group of warriors, their expressions stern and watchful. One stepped forward, his armor gleaming in the sunlight, an imposing figure with a deep voice.
**"State your business, strangers,"** he demanded, crossing his arms over his chest.
The trader stepped forward confidently. **"We seek an audience with the clans. We come with news of a great threat and wish to unite our strengths."**
The warrior studied them closely, his eyes narrowing. **"And why should we trust you? You are outsiders."**
Kera felt her heart race. **"Because we've faced the darkness and survived,"** she said, her voice steady. **"We're here to protect our lands, just as you are."**
### The Challenge of Trust
The warrior remained silent for a moment, then called out to the others. **"Bring forth the Council. They will decide your fate."**
As the warriors stepped aside, Ashfall took a deep breath, knowing this was their moment. The council would determine if they were worthy of the clans' trust.
They were led to a large central fire, where several elders sat, their faces lined with wisdom and age. The air was thick with tension as they awaited judgment.
**"We have heard your words,"** one of the elders said, her voice resonating like thunder. **"But words alone do not earn trust. You must prove yourselves."**
Ashfall's heart sank, but he stood tall. **"We are ready to face any challenge."**
The elder regarded them for a moment, then nodded. **"Very well. We will test your strength, courage, and wisdom. Only then can you hope to gain our allegiance."**
### The Trials Ahead
As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the encampment, Ashfall felt a renewed sense of determination. The path ahead was fraught with challenges, but together, they would rise to meet them.
**"We've come this far,"** Kera whispered, her eyes shining with resolve. **"We won't back down now."**
Tides nodded, a determined grin on his face. **"Let's show them what we're made of."**
With the Council watching closely, they prepared for the trials that would test their limits and determine their fate among the Lost Clans of the North. The stakes were high, and the shadows loomed ever closer.
Status Power Mingguan
-- Peringkat
Power 
-- Power
stone