"Stay in the car," Xavier said, his voice calm but absolute as he stared at the two. "I'll return shortly."
Angel frowned, crossing her arms. "Not a chance. You're walking into that thing alone?"
Lyra, still flushed and breathing unevenly, shook her head weakly. "I'm coming too…"
Xavier's gaze cut to her — serious, and concerned. Then to Angel. "No, you're not." His tone carried a finality that silenced the both of them. "Lyra's not in good shape. She needs rest — control — whatever it takes to cool her down before it gets worse."
He stepped closer, lowering his voice just enough for them to hear over the hum of the hovercar. "Angel, you stay with her. Don't let her strain herself, and keep her in front of the AC. I'll handle this and be back before either of you can argue again."
