Jackson's eyes hardened as he replied, "Well, I've been running my whole life. I think I'll be fine."

Ethan nodded, understanding the weight behind Jackson's words. "I get that. But running can only get you so far. Sometimes, you have to stand and fight."

Jackson glanced at Ethan, a mix of defiance and curiosity in his eyes. "And what makes you think you can help me?"

Ethan took a step closer, his gaze unwavering. "Because I've faced them too. And I know their weaknesses. Together, we can take them down."

Jackson hesitated, then finally gave a small nod. "Alright. But remember, I don't trust easily."

Gerard sneered, "Jackson Whittmore or Hale, which one do you go by these days?"

Ethan looked at Jackson, his eyes filled with determination. "You're a Hale," Ethan said firmly.

Jackson took a deep breath. "Peter's my dad,"

"Peter's my dad," he said to Ethan.

Ethan nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "

"You know, there was a time you were my little puppet," he snickered. "That ended after I killed Matt."

Jackson's eyes narrowed,

"I guess it's good Matt didn't live to see you like this," Gerard sneered. "He'd be ashamed."

Jackson's anger flared, but he took a deep breath, focusing on the fight ahead.

"Matt was always the better fighter, but he took pity on you," Gerard said.

Jackson's fists clenched, his eyes burning with intensity.

Gerard barely had time to react as Jackson's fists connected with his jaw, sending him staggering backward.

Jackson sprung out, attacking Gerard with a fierce determination.

Jackson and Ethan were forced to run as the hunters' bullets whizzed past them. Gerard and his hunters managed to escape, slipping away into the darkness.

Later that day, Jackson and Ethan found a quiet spot to talk and drink. They reflected on the intense events, sharing their thoughts

"So, who was Matt?" Ethan asked.

"He was my best friend," Jackson responded, a hint of sadness in his voice.

"He was the Kanima master," Jackson said, his voice tinged with both bitterness and nostalgia, "but he was also my best friend."

Ethan took a deep breath, his eyes clouded with a mix of sorrow and anger. "Aiden's death... it still haunts me every day. He was more than just my twin; he was a part of me."

"Danny was my number one, always. He was like my brother," , "But Matt... Matt just felt everything I felt. I could feel everything he felt."