The desert sun burned high above, casting long shadows over the shifting dunes. A mischievous smirk curled on his lips as he adjusted the golden scarf wrapped around his head, shielding his eyes from the glaring light. The wind howled, whipping up a flurry of sand, but he stood firm, fists clenched and ready for action.

"Hope you've got quick feet," he teased, flashing a confident grin.

"Because I don't plan on losing this race."

With a burst of speed, he dashed forward, the heatwaves distorting his figure as he vanished into the horizon. But was this just a friendly competition—or was something much bigger at stake?