Xavier adjusted his gloves, his expression grim but focused, while beside him, Alvin lifted his hand slightly, the faint glow of magic running along his fingertips like molten threads. The two stood just beyond the mansion's gate, their silhouettes half-obscured by fog, framed against the rising sun that looked like a dull red wound in the sky.
"Ready?" Xavier asked, checking the magazine of his gun.
Alvin gave a quiet hum, though his eyes flickered with restrained frustration. "As ready as I can be with only half a working soul."
Xavier smirked. "You're still stronger than anyone I know."
"Flattery won't make me forgive you if I end up fainting again," Alvin muttered, brushing his dark hair back. A faint blue aura shimmered around him, then faded.
Xavier stepped closer, pressing a quick kiss to Alvin's temple. "Then I'll make sure you don't."
Alvin rolled his eyes but didn't pull away. "Just don't be stupid out there. You're not immortal either."
