A Spark in the Frost

Silence. Cold air. My fingers tightened beneath the heavy hem of my mantle. I could feel the stone beneath my boots. Beside me sat an armored figure carved in ice, entirely still. Beside it, a mechanical frame held a glowing red sphere, pulsating with faint warmth. I extended a gloved hand and gently pressed the dark metal clasp holding the orb. A subtle click echoed across the ridge. Warmth radiated into my palm. I remained seated at the precipice, watching the horizon.