The Ghost's Shadows

Chapter 1

I can remember that time so long ago when I had no control over my gifts. I can remember little Ajax hanging out in the garden. 

The day began to turn tonight. While I was sitting on the swing, my mother hung on a giant tree in the garden. Even though I could see the shadow on the tree grow more prominent due to the moonlight, I didn't want to leave. I remember that, unlike my classmates, I was never afraid of darkness; I can almost say I've always felt more comfortable in it. Dusk became night, and I stared quietly at the starry night sky, which a mysterious fog would soon cover. I could smell my mother's special roasted chicken; it tempted me to return home, but I wanted to stay a little longer. 

My mind wandered as I thought of what had happened earlier that day. My thoughts were suddenly interrupted by a muffled yet unmistakable sound of footsteps, and they were getting closer and closer to me. That moonlight barely made its way through the thick fog and stars hid behind the clouds, this made seeing the way back home tricky but I couldn't be bothered because I realized the footsteps were following me. What began as faint, slow footsteps grew louder and more rapid as I began to hurry back home faster with every step I took, and I felt my chaser near me even more. My breath grew heavier; my steps became clumsier as my body crumbled to the fear. With every step I took, my house seemed to gain more distance. 

"Don't look back, don't look back, don't look back."

So close yet so far from the kitchen door, and then, I tripped. With adrenaline rushing through my veins, I tried to stand up. As I was doing so, I turned around, fearing my chaser being extremely close. 

"There is nothing. Nothing but fog and shadows." 

But how? I was sure I had heard footsteps. I was sure I was being followed. Although all that had occurred, I saw nothing but shadows and darkness. I walked home, thinking of what had just happened. I came in nauseous and dizzy, not knowing where to look or what to feel. There was nothing, but I still looked back in case something or someone was still there. Goosebumps ran through my whole body at the thought of this. My mom, setting the plates on the table, looked at me worried. 

"Is everything okay, Jaxy?" She asked with concern. My mother, Luna Ghost, is of average height and has long, wavy brown hair and bright green eyes. She has a slender build with delicate features and high cheekbones. Her complexion is pale, with a few freckles. I always admired her. I looked up at her with admiration and hope that I would one day become the huntress she was. 

I couldn't muster a word, and tears burst out from my eyes. She gasped and ran up to me. She kneeled in front of me and engulfed me in a hug. Little did I used to know, that feeling wasn't for nothing...

People tend to be afraid of ghosts—not me, though. But that day was something entirely new—well, almost. My mom, after consoling me, offered me her special roasted chicken. Still sobbing, I managed a weak smile. I was happy to have someone there always to make me feel better. 

Dinner was amazing. That chicken flavor is unforgettable, though the chicken wasn't enough to make me forget about what had just happened outside. The footsteps were so real—a presence staring at my soul with a penetrating sight. 

I shook my head, trying to forget that moment for at least a second. 

"My little Ghost..." My mom played with my hair a little bit with a smile. 

"Tomorrow, we'll work on your semblance..." I stared at her in confusion, and after a brief moment of thinking, I finally understood. 

I knew my father's bloodline carried a powerful semblance I would soon acquire. My semblance... It was time to become the hunter I always aspired to be.