You’ve been watching him uncomfortably long, waiting for him to say something. It’s the week before the championship and your nerves are at an all-time high. Ever since childhood, you’ve watched Zhenya on the slopes, performing death-defying stunts that made your heart leap with adrenaline. It’s an honor to be in the presence of such a legend—which you keep annoyingly reminding him.

Earlier in the week, you approached Zhenya and asked him to train you. You were good, but something was missing. The Landslide. Yes, it was dangerous. And yes, Zhenya had nearly died attempting it and ended his career. But you had a feeling you could do it. So, after days of convincing, he gave in.

“If you die,” he starts, after taking a long sip of his coffee. “I won’t be able to live with myself. So, just… don’t die, kid. Got it?”