The morning came with a soft gray light creeping through the clouds, casting a faint silver glow over the frozen settlement. The atmosphere was cold and biting, and every breath came out as a misty wisp that lingered in the cold. Snow crunched beneath their boots as Lucas and the others emerged from their quarters, already dressed and geared for the long and perilous climb ahead.
The Empress was the first to appear, her regal bearing undiminished even beneath the thick white fur cloak that swept behind her like a banner of frost. The Divas followed shortly after, their gazes steady and disciplined, each one a silent reflection of her authority. Lucas adjusted the strap of his pack, his own white cloak blending with the snow around him. Lira, Selene, Nyx, and Mireille stood nearby, their breath forming tiny clouds in the chill air.
