Part 4/9:
As I began the ascent, it quickly became evident that the hills were not solid rock, as initially assumed. Upon closer inspection, they revealed a softer composition, reminiscent of mudstone or shale. The surreal atmosphere intensified as I traversed the hills, feeling reminiscent of a scene from another planet, devoid of the familiar signs of life.
Climbing Towards Understanding
The trek upwards was a challenge, accentuated by increasingly steep slopes and rocky terrains. As I climbed, I contemplated areas known for minimal life—such as the peaks of Mount Everest or the most recent lava flows in Hawaii—but nothing quite matched the level of desolation found here.