Lost Saint

The trust between Ajax and Emy had deepened over time. She revealed her affinity—she had an affinity for wind. Unlike Ajax, her control over her magic was blunt; she struggled to control it and barely understood her mana core.

Ajax patiently explained the magical principle, lent her books to study and often read to her himself when the lessons became too frustrating.

Despite the longevity, Alex was yet to return from his quest. He's been sending messages of his well-being and activities, but the task had long overlapped the time they anticipated.

It was a bit later in the day when Ajax and Emy strolled into the alleys. They spotted a large tree by a stream, and it was warm and comforting.

Ajax suggested they train and relax there whenever they meet. Close by, there was an elderly couple. They lived in a small house.

Ajax didn't want their presence to be an intrusion. In respect, they approached the elders, introduced themselves, and asked if they could use the tree as their spot. 

The elders were gracious enough to allow them. It suddenly became their meeting spot, and their relationship with the elders grew amicably. The elders couldn't stop themselves from teasing.

"Make sure to invite us to your wedding—if we're still alive by then." They often said.

Just when everything seemed perfect, Emy stopped showing up.

Time flew by as days turned into weeks. Ajax waited at their usual spot, hoping she would return, but no luck.

Worry gnawed at him, but there was nothing he could do—he didn't even know where she lived.

After three long weeks, she finally appeared.

She seemed tired. Ajax was glad she came back, but when he asked where she'd been, she only gave a vague answer. She barely met Ajax's gaze as she answered, her voice distant.

Lucius urged Ajax to press for answers, but Ajax refused. The presence of Emy was enough for him.

Whatever happened during her disappearance, Ajax knew cheering her up would be better than doubts.

They continued their training and normal activities. Before long, Emy's control over her wind magic strengthened.

Ajax was prouder than Emy was. He never thought he could teach anyone, and yet he's taught Emy something older people would struggle with.

He refused to accept the possibility that perhaps Emy was just smart. "No…No," he often said; he's just an outstanding teacher.

They wished their time together could last longer than it did, but unfortunately, Ajax turned seven, and he had to leave for the academy.

It was getting a bit late in the evening; it was their last time together.

They sat in their usual spot and watched as the wind blew the stream.

"You are lucky, Ajax." Emy said calmly, hugging her knee, "You get to leave for an academy."

"Lucky?" Ajax asked, his voice wavering slightly. "I don't think so; I will miss you and this place."

Emy turned to him, her expression serious and threatening, "Don't forget about me."

Ajax grinned, "I couldn't even if I wanted to."

"Better." She said, 

A comfortable silence settled in, sounds of crickets filling the air from a distance.

"You've been good to me. Thank you." Emy admitted it calmly.

Ajax, wanting to avoid any uncomfortable situation, got up and asked Emy to follow him to the elders.

It was sudden and sad to hear of their departure. The sadness on both of their faces spoke enough words for the elders. There wasn't much they could do to cheer them up, so they assured them their place would also be their second home.

The wind blew softly as they stood by the stream for the last time. 

"It's getting late," Ajax said, calmly.

There was an awkward sadness after the question. 

Without a word, Emy pulled Ajax into a tight hug.

Ajax stiffened for a moment, then gave in to the embrace.

"Take care of yourself," she whispered.

"You too," Ajax murmured.

Reluctantly, they pulled apart. Then, without another word, Emy turned and ran off.

Ajax stood there with a smile and watched her as she ran. Then, with a heavy heart, he made his way home.

The night was heavy on him; he lay flat on his bed. Reminiscing over his time at home and the small time he had with Emy.

He couldn't care less about academics, but the thought of the presence of others overwhelmed him.

"Someone save me from this nightmare." 

He blinked, and suddenly it was morning. The Romanov family, along with Athena and Arrow—who had returned home on a break—met and bid farewell to Ajax.

On his way, he gathered his thoughts and courage to face whatever lay ahead.