Sumerian Mythology

*The sun was barely rising over the tall cedars, and the forest seemed to hold its breath. Gilgamesh, king of Uruk, looked at his friend Enkidu with determination. "Today we will face Humbaba," he said, his voice as firm as bronze. "There is no other way." Enkidu nodded, his wild gaze recalling his days among the animals of the desert and the forests. "His strength is immense, but his pride is his weakness. If we work together, we can defeat him." They advanced among the gigantic trees, each step a rustling of dry leaves. Suddenly, a roar that seemed to split the earth resounded around them: Humbaba, the guardian of the forest, was near. His face, a mask of terror and power, was glimpsed through the morning mist. "Who dares to profane my forest?" —Humbaba thundered, making the roots of the cedars tremble.

Enkidu stepped forward, facing the guardian with courage:
—We are Gilgamesh and Enkidu. We have come for glory, and no one will stop our destiny.

Humbaba laughed, a sound that chilled the blood.
—Insolent ones! The forest obeys me; every branch and root will rise up against you.*