The frost-covered platforms overlooking the starting line sparkled like diamonds under the pale mountain sun.
Each breath came out in visible puffs, and the air bit at any exposed skin.
Below them, the roar of the crowd echoed like a thunderstorm, spectators bundled in furs and magical warming cloaks as they cheered for their favored teams.
Rui and Shen emerged from the tunnel together, and she immediately felt grateful for Shen's insistence on the extra layers.
He'd wrapped her in a thick winter cloak over her racing leathers, added fur-lined gloves, and even procured a warming charm for her boots.
"It'll increase drag," she'd protested.
"Better slow than frozen," he'd replied firmly, adjusting her hood with careful hands.
Now, feeling the brutal mountain cold, she silently thanked him for his foresight.
Lady Qian glided toward them across the platform, her movements as fluid as flowing water despite the treacherous footing.
