The Ghost's Shadows

Chapter 39

Third Person POV

The next morning. 

After an impressive yet painful breakthrough, Ajax and Jester decided they had had enough of their experimentation with his newly acquired power. With blood dripping from his eyes, Ajax knew continuing his endeavors would do more harm than good. To pass the time and stay in shape, Ajax ran into the deep woods searching for Grimm who would soon fall victim to his scythe and claws. 

Common Grimm aren't a match for him. He knows the majority of weaknesses of each species. The soft spots where a simple slash or stab would end their sinful life. Of course, some species are more dangerous than others and pose a challenge, but nothing he can't handle. It also serves as a way to funnel and transfer emotions. Memories of the recently occurred wash over him repeatedly. What better way to help cope with those foul emotions than to rend apart Grimm? The anger for being outraged by his brother and losing an eye. The grief of losing his girlfriend. The now-fading jealousy he has been battling for a long time. Emotions that are familiar, yet unwelcome. 

Panting, Ajax looks around. He was so enthralled by his need to calm down that he hadn't noticed that dawn had risen. The appearance of light had made his shadows less effective. But most importantly, he knew that Zack was soon to rise. After his therapeutic session of massacring Grimm, he calmly returned to the inn where Zack rested, occasionally killing Grimm who were unfortunate enough to be found by him. No need for a portal.

As he finally approached Zack's room, he saw that the door was already open. Curiosity got the best of him and he peeked his head. Zack could be seen with only his jeans and no shirt on checking out his toned and well-earned muscles in the mirror. 

Ajax smiles softly. "Got your daily ego check?" 

He jumps in surprise at his sudden tease but is quick to recover. "Damn right! Another day, another reason to keep going!"

Ajax couldn't help but visibly cringe at his extreme positivity.  "No. Just no."

"Okay, Depresso," Zack responded, returning the teasing at him. 

"Fair." Ajax shrugs. "So, I've had enough of nightclubs and parties. Today we continue our journey to my house."

"Sounds good to me."

"I'll see you outside the inn. Put a shirt on," Ajax jokingly commanded as we walked away. Zack chuckles, slightly amused, not before checking himself one last time in the mirror. 

Ajax made his way out of the inn and looked around. He hoped to see some peace and calm at dawn. 

Boy was he incorrect...

People were still partying and various nightclubs were still booming their respective music.  Drunk people were still a common sight as they stumbled around trying to stay upright. He visibly cringed but continued onward, not before summoning his cloak to remain hidden.

Zack wasn't one to take long to ready himself. Some minutes passed after their morning conversation and he walked out of the inn shortly. He recognized Ajax's signature cloak and approached him, catching Ajax's attention in the process. They both looked at each other and nodded. No words needed to be said. They both knew that they must continue their journey. 

...

Hana had found herself back in Mistral, where she would use her semblance to heal and power up people in need. She was always a caring soul, one that wouldn't falter easily despite the recent tragedy. She managed to keep her head up high and continue forward. And what better way to do that than using her blessing to bless others?