Spectral hooves thundered against the crystal track as they bounded forward in perfect unison.
Rui led Moonbeam and Stardust through the first stretch as Shen fought to maintain his position beside her.
"A banking turn is coming up," Shen called, his voice carrying over the wind.
Rui leaned into the curve, feeling the forty-degree angle pull at her chariot.
The spectral horses responded beautifully, their ethereal forms flowing like liquid stars around the bend.
"Good! But watch your inside wheel," Shen shouted, noting how close she'd come to the barrier.
They completed the lap, pulling their chariots to a gentle stop at the starting line.
Both were breathing hard, adrenaline crashing through their veins.
"Again," Rui demanded, eyes bright with competitive fire.
"I want to shave seconds off that turn."
Shen nodded, admiration flickering in his expression.
