Alvin tightened the strap on his shoulder bag and looked back at the small group trailing him through the cracked city street.
Behind him walked Xavier, his partner, his anchor ,short black hair swept to the side, red eyes faintly glowing beneath his hood. He moved like a shadow given purpose, every step measured, every glance fixed on Alvin. The black flame that clung to his palms simmered low, like a pet beast waiting for command.
Daniel came next, dark hair, darker eyes, temper to match. His jacket was half-zipped, soot-stained, and he carried the easy swagger of someone who thought rules were optional.
Beside him, humming softly, was Luis, long golden hair pulled into a messy braid, bright golden eyes sparkling with mischief. The outfit was ridiculous for a hunt: a ruffled skirt over combat leggings and a pink scarf fluttering in the breeze. But Luis wore it like armor, and somehow, it worked.
And finally, there were the little ones.
