The long-range private jet finally touched down on the snow-dusted runway of an isolated airfield on the outskirts of Reykjavik.
The moment the heavy cabin door disengaged and swung outward, the biting Icelandic air hit Arora straight in the face. It was a sharp, sub-zero chill that cut through her clothes, carrying the crisp scent of volcanic stone and ocean frost. She pulled the collar of her dark wool coat tighter around her throat, her boots crunching against the thin layer of ice as she descended the airstrip steps.
Near an idling fleet of heavy, blacked-out off-road vehicles, a burly local man was waiting for them in a thermal parka.
The moment he saw Arora, his weathered face broke into a warm, respectful smile. He stepped forward quickly, bowing his head slightly.
"Welcome to Iceland, Leader."
Arora offered a polite, dignified nod. "Thank you for securing our arrival on such short notice."
