I liked the imagery involved, and the detail that you put into it. I like how, in the first two paragraphs, the tone is one of expectation and anxiety...which changes authentically to confidence and certainty in the last. It's a good piece :)

"; their reddish hue reminding him only of the hell he had endeavored to get to where he now stood, and of how small he really was."

I don't know why, but that part gave me the most imagery in the entire piece. I really like it. Then again, the entire piece isn't bad. It's pretty and flows, not sounding awkward.