By the time the first qualifying race began, the Skyyard had attracted nearly everyone in the Sanctuary.
People crowded the observation decks wrapped around the upper half of the tower. Others gathered on rooftops or along the hills beneath the course. Food stalls had appeared near the base of the lifts, and several innkeepers had placed tables outside so their customers could watch the glowing checkpoints from around the Sanctuary.
Max stood on the official platform beside Captain Brakka. From there, he could see the starting docks and most of the first half of the course. Dungeon projections hovered above the railing, showing the sections hidden behind the forest and hills.
Eight miniature airships floated beside the tower. Their balloons and hulls were identical, but the crews had covered them with temporary flags, ribbons, and painted party symbols.
One vessel had so many silver streamers tied to its rigging that Max was surprised it could still move.
