Xavier Valentine ran his thumb across the seams of his new jacket, feeling for imperfections that weren't there. The garment was better crafted than anything he'd owned in either life—black leather with silver threading that hummed faintly when he channeled his Essentia through it. The enchantments were subtle but unmistakable, designed to amplify his abilities while providing protection against both conventional and magical attacks.
Hearthome's armory smelled of volcanic stone, oiled leather, and the faint ozone scent of magic. Dawn had barely broken, painting the eastern windows in hues of orange and gold, but the five of them had been awake for hours.
"Stop fidgeting," Naomi said, adjusting her own equipment. She wore dark purple leather armor, form-fitting yet practical, with dozens of hidden pockets for her various tools. Her daggers—three visible, likely more concealed—gleamed in the early light. "You look like you've never worn decent gear before."
