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In a field surrounded by trees, a young man with a boyish face, a slightly tan complexion, a punkish hairdo with his bangs partially covering his eyes, and the eyes so blue that they seemed to glow, awakened. He wore a long, black hooded cloak that was unzipped, a blue T-shirt beneath that, a pair of black jeans, and sneakers. Despite the winter air and his light clothing, it didn't bother him.
...

Where am I?
He tried to sit up, but his entire body screamed in protest.What happened to me? Did I fall out of the sky or something? I feel like I had the great idea of going skydiving without a parachute.He grit his teeth and sat up, despite his body's reluctance to cooperate.
It...hurts to even breathe.
He looked down at his blue T-shirt, noting the bloodstains. In his hand was a mobile device of some sort.A Scroll. Wait, there's something on the screen.
'I'm sorry. Good luck.'
... Did I write this? Seems a bit odd.He closed the Scroll, the screen collapsing between the upper and lower half. He made to pocket it, and pain wracked him.I think I broke something. Or several somethings...He then looked at his surroundings, but nothing struck him as familiar. The only thing that he felt he recognized was an oversized sword, single edged sword stuck into the groundSeriously, where am I? Okay...let's just try and remember what I was doing last, and work from there.As he tried to recall what had happened, he found nothing came to him. He tried harder, and suddenly, his head seared painfully, making him groan.What the fuck?! Why can't I remember anything?!He sighed softly.Okay...what can I remember? I...I remember my name. I remember my date of birth. And...I'm going to Camp Half-Blood.He frowned.
Why?
He attempted to remember but was rewarded with another painful headache.Ugh, I'm not going to get anywhere like this! I should just try and find Camp Half-Blood. I feel like it shouldn't be far.The young man pulled up his hood and zipped up his cloak, and a shadow darkened to obscure the upper portion of his face. He then stood.
No point in staying here.
He walked up to the large sword and grabbed the handle with both hands before pulling it from the ground. The blade would definitely be heavy for a regular person, but he didn't find it to be.
Well, let's get going.
PercyYou know, I thought that being able to talk to Annabeth would make me happy. I remember a time when it did. Now, I just use it as an excuse to take a break from studying... Gods, I'm terrible.In his room, the son of Poseidon was currently sitting at a desk, trying to compose a letter for his girlfriend, who had left on a family emergency. Though she sometimes carried a cellphone, a risky thing for a demigod, electronic communication had become completely unreliable as of late. Percy tapped his pen, or sword when he left it uncapped, on his desk.'Dear Annabeth, I'm fine. How are you? 'That was all he had managed to write, and he didn't feel like putting in the effort to finish, something that made him feel guilty. However, what bothered him more was that it didn't make him feel as guilty as it should've. Instead, he let his mind wander to other things.I wonder how Jason is doing... I still can't believe that he broke up with Piper. Well, Jason is a great guy, I'm certain that he'll find someone. It's just a shame that he missed that opportunity... It's a good thing we kept in touch and that I stepped in when I did, like any good bro should.Percy smirked as he thought he put a tied up, kicking, and screaming Jason atop Blackjack, in order to bring him to Camp Half-Blood.I might've gone a tad bit too far with that. Just a tad, though. Besides, he wouldn't listen to reason. I had no choice.Jason had screamed at him that kidnapping wasn't okay and locked himself in the Zeus cabin, though he had eventually forgiven him. Percy's eyes drifted towards Annabeth's most recent letter. He had opened the envelope but hadn't read it. Again, he felt like he should at least read it, but he didn't. Part of the reason was because he didn't want to; however, the bigger reason was because he was scared of what it might say. He dreaded reading the letter and finding the words 'What's wrong?'. Once more, he let his mind drift.Nico and Will started dating last month. On the one hand, I'm happy for him, but on the other...it kinda bothers me. Not that he's dating, no, but I thought that since he decided to stay at Camp Half-Blood, I'd have the opportunity to be a better friend and hang out. Now, most of his time is spent with Will (which is totally understandable), but...I'm kinda jealous. Plus, I had tried to set Nico up with Jason. I think they would've made a great couple, nothing against Will. I suppose that it could be worse. When I first tried to spend time with him, Will didn't like it...and I didn't like that Will was all Nico talked about. Well, Will and Jason. It's gotten better. Will and I are cool now…I hope. Jason, on the other hand... I'm worried about him. Maybe I should invite him over, have him meet my mom and Paul."Hey, sweetie," Sally said, walking into the room with a smile on her face, and pulling Percy from his thoughts. "Writing a letter to Annabeth?"Percy put on a fake smile. "Yep. I miss her.""I'm certain that you do," Sally replied. "What are you gonna do when you finish?"The son of Poseidon sighed. "You know. The usual."Homework... Ugh."I know that it's not easy, but I'm very proud of you," Sally commented, making Percy slightly happier."Thanks, Mom."I'll do what I can tonight and get a bit more studying in the morning. I wonder if I'll have nice dreams tonight? They've certainly been...surprisingly normal since the war. You'd think that I'd have some dreams about Annabeth, but they're pretty mundane.
You know, I get the feeling that I have been in this sort of situation before, but I can't remember.
In a forest, in the dead of night, the young man stood surrounded by men armed with assault rifles and equipped with night-vision goggles. Despite his situation, he didn't exactly feel threatened, more focused on his own wounds.Shit... I'm badly injured. It's probably worse than what I thought.He carefully observed his company.Who the fuck are these guys? Are they gonna try and stop me? Even in my current condition, they won't pose much of an issue...hopefully. They might be well trained, but the way they move indicates that they're not anything other than human."Is this the one we're looking for?" one of the men asked. A young man with dark curly hair and a face littered with scars stepped out from among them.He answered, "Yeah, he's the one. His ancestor is one of the greatest heroes in all of history."I am? Which one? There are so many 'great heroes'. Many aren't even all that great."Do I...know you?" the hooded man asked.It's hard to say. He appears to be close to my age. I really don't remember...well, much of anything. I know my name and that I have to reach Camp Half-Blood, but that's about it. Oh...there's also a certain someone that I think I might find there, but...is he more than just a dream?The other young man shook his head. "No, you don't know me personally, but perhaps you've heard of me. I'm Lityerses. My friends call me Lit, but my enemies call me Death."Oh yeah, I've heard of him. The Reaper of Men, deadly with a blade, blah blah blah.Next, the hooded man asked, "Are we enemies?"Lityerses raised an eyebrow. "Are...Are you serious?""Oh, quite serious, I assure you," the hooded man replied.Lityerses rolled his eyes and snapped, "No, we're not friends! What kind of question is that?! What kind of person asks that when he's about to be executed?!"The hooded man shrugged. "I do. I'm guessing that these men are my...what? Execution squad?""Oh, my gods, yes!" Lityerses answered, quite clearly vexed. "Don't you recognize danger when you see it?!"I'm in danger? I suppose that most people would find this situation threatening.The hooded man shrugged again. "See, that would be intimidating if you were…well, intimidating."Lityerses' eye narrowed. "What? Are you insane? Do you have not have a shred of survival instinct? Need I remind you of who I am?"
I'm quite sane, I just don't remember anything.
"I'm sorry. I don't see anyone here who poses in viable threat to me. And you..." the hooded man said, planting the oversized sword into the ground, "...you are not worthy as my opponent.""Kill him!" Lityerses ordered.The hooded man ran up to one of the men and threw a kick into his side, knocking him several yards away, while the others began to fire at him. He moved with godlike speed, performing a quick series of rolls and flips, knowing exactly where to dodge in order to avoid fire, despite being surrounded. As he turned, he noticed something — the bullets flying passed him.Can I actually see them? How fast is my perception and reaction time? Maybe this is all part of some fever dream.As the enemy continued to try and hit him, they started to hit each other with their own bullets."We're in each others' line of fire!" one of them shouted."You useless idiot!" Lityerses barked. "Switch to close-quarters-combat!"The remaining men dropped their assault rifles and drew long, glowing bronze swords from their backs.
Celestial Bronze.
As one of the men charged, the cloaked man jumped over over him before kicking him in the head as he dropped back down to the ground. Two more men rushed towards him, and he went into a handstand and kicked both of in the torso, as they had been low to the ground.
This is too easy.
Another man approached from behind, and the hooded figure ducked a slash before standing and elbowing the enemy in the face. As another came at him, he used his opponent's momentum and threw him over his shoulder and into a nearby dead tree, breaking it."H-He's too strong!" one of the men shouted."Stop attacking him one at a time, morons!" Lityerses ordered.
He's got a point. Why do people do that? This isn't a movie or videogame.
Another shouted, "Retreat!" And then, the men scattered. As one passed by Lityerses, the demigod drew his sword and decapitated him.Harsh. Also, that'd make that unfortunate soul a demigod."That was uncalled for," the hooded man commented, though Lityerses only grinned."I have no need for a fucking waste of space. I'm more than enough to kill you.""I already told you..." the hooded figure said as a purple Xiphos with a golden edge appeared in his hand, "...you are not worthy as my opponent.""We'll see about that," Lityerses said before quickly closing the gap between them. The hooded man brought up his sword in time to block a strike.He's not too bad, though I don't think he deserves his title.The hooded figure quickly countered, striking several times in quick succession, though Lityerses managed to hold his ground."Your swordsmanship isn't too bad," the demigod commented as they began to trade blows with increasing speed."Funny, I was going to say that yours isn't all that great," the other taunted, sparks beginning to fly from their clashes.Lityerses scowled, a feat that impressed the hooded man more than his swordsmanship due to the number of scars upon the demigod's face. "You're going to regret having said that when your head leaves your shoulders!" The two locked blades."I don't believe your blade is sharp enough to even nick me," the cloaked figure retorted, angling his blade upwards to end the bind and cutting Lityerses in the face, adding another future scar and causing him to quickly back up. The cloaked man then grimaced, tasting blood in his mouth.Yeah, I know, I'm bluffing. I'm kinda at my limit! Wait…what the fuck am I doing?The handle of the Xiphos extended and part of the blade collapsed inward, changing quickly into a rifle, which he promptly aimed at Lityerses. The demigod seemed unfazed."Do you really think you can intimidate m-…" he was cut off as a shot was fired, though unlike a regular bullet, it froze his hand to his sword. "What the?!""Dust," the young man answered. "Nature's wrath crystallized." As Lityerses moved, he proceeded to shoot both feet and sword arm, freezing his feet to the ground and his arm at an awkward angle to his body. "You're quick, but you're not that quick.""Coward!" Lityerses growled, clearly furious.The young man raised an eyebrow. "I'm the coward? You're the one who came with a group.""Release me at once!""That's…not really possible at this point. This is where we part ways," the young man replied. He then looked towards where he had planted the absurdly large sword, only to find, to his amusement, one of those who had accompanied the demigod struggling to even budge it. He walked over towards the sword, causing the other person to take a step away from the weapon, before drawing the weapon from the ground.The lackey backed up further, his hands raised. "S...sorry.""Leave."The lackey turned and bolted, and the hooded man place the sword over his shoulders."Hey! Hey, get back here! Get me out of this, you idiot!" Lityerses called after his lackey.Just a bit further... Then I'll rest.PercyThe son of Poseidon found himself a forest, surrounded by seemingly unconscious people. From their positioning, it looked like there had been a fight of sorts.Who or what could've done this to them? Do I even want to know?Percy stepped closer to one of the people, and he groaned slightly.This couldn't have happened that long ago. Furthermore...I don't think I'm actually here. Meaning that I'm dreaming.Percy sighed.
Oh, what horrible vision awaits me this time?
The dream instantly shifted as if in reply, and he now found himself staring at a hooded figure walking through the forest. Every now and then, the figured faltered slightly in his footing.Is he okay? Maybe he's drunk?Percy then heard something — panting.Or maybe, this is the guy who did that to those other guys. He doesn't seem to be doing very well right now. That ridiculously large sword he's carrying probably isn't helping The hooded figure stumbled again and began to fall, dropping the sword behind , despite not actually being there, tried to catch him. Of course, the figure passed right through him, hitting the ground with a pained grunt.
Seriously, what in the world did I think that'd do?
The hooded figure continued to lie on the ground for a moment before pushing himself back up. Slowly, he stood, the task seemingly a Herculean one, before lifting the sword and continuing to walk, this time dragging the sword along.Percy shook his head and spoke, "Geez, just watching you is making me tired. You should take a break."The hooded figure suddenly tensed and turned towards Percy with more speed than he would've expected. "Who's there?""Wait, you can hear me?" Percy asked, only to be met by the figure looking around and not replying.Right...demigod dreams are weird. Sometimes, people know you’re there. For all I know, this entire thing might not actually be happening, but based on experience...it probably is.Something then occurred to the brunette.
If that's the case, maybe I can help.
"You should take a break," Percy suggested.The figure shook his head and replied, "Must be my head. No...gotta keep going. I have to reach Camp Half-Blood."If I knew where this guy was, I'd offer him a ride ...That's probably why I keep getting in trouble. For all I know, he could be plotting to destroy the place.Deciding to continue (and to trust his gut), Percy tried, "Camp Half-Blood isn't going anywhere. Just rest for a few moments. You'll feel better if you do."The figure seemed to consider the suggestion. "Yeah...Camp Half-Blood isn't going anywhere, and I'll do better if I can recover some of my Aura."Percy frowned. "What in the world is Aura? In that some sort of Yoga-thing?"The hooded figure didn't provide an answer as he slowly sat on the ground, frustrating Percy quite a bit, considering that he had a lot of questions.It's like selective hearing, but worse. Who is this guy? Did he fight those other guys? What's wrong with him? Why is his face hidden? Why is he going to Camp Half-Blood? And what the fuck is Aura?!Percy sighed his frustration. "Seriously, who is this guy? Can I at least get a name?" Who he was asking, he had no idea."My name is-...," the hooded figure started to answered, much to Percy's surprise."Percy?" a voice called, interruptingHuh? Who's talking? Who else is here?"Percy?" the voice repeated.
Wait a second...is that...Mom?
The hooded figure started to fade, causing the son of Poseidon to panic a bit.No! No, not now! I didn't hear his answer!Percy then felt someone shaking him, and he woke with a start, finding his mother looking a bit concerned.She asked him, "Percy, are you okay?"Percy sighed. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just...a weird dream.""Something related to you or Camp?" Sally inquired."It does involve Camp, but as for myself?...I don't know," he admitted, wanting to be honest with his mother."Well, we can hope," Sally replied with a smile. "Anyways, there's someone here to see you."Percy sat up. "Wait, really? Who's here to see me?"
What are the chances that's it's that hooded guy?
"Some guy..." Sally started, making Percy worry with anticipation.
Is it him?
"...saying that he's Apollo," she finished, instantly souring his mood.
Apollo?
He sighed.
Why?
Everything still hurts. I was hoping some rest would help ... This is what I get for listening to disembodied voices.That was all he could think as he walked towards the place from his dreams.Camp Half-Blood. I have to get to Camp Half-Blood...He didn't let any of his pain show as he calmly strode to his destination. There was an orchard next to him, but he paid it no thought. He was rather thankful that he could obscure his features.I don't want anyone to stop me, but, so far, m y luck doesn't seem to have a great track record.He sighed.Maybe I should stop by the infirmary if they have one. It's a camp, they'd have an infirmary, right? I don't see why they wouldn't. Maybe someone will even be able to tell me...well, about me.He shook his head in frustration and continued forward. Suddenly, he heard a car swerving, and instinctively, he dodged out of the way of a Prius; it crashed through the fence and between the trunks of two trees.Damn, my day just keeps getting better and better. I should probably make sure that the driver is still alive.JasonIn the Sword Fighting Area, the son of Jupiter stood, watching as Jake came over and presented him with a blade with a smile.Jake proudly said, "I just finished it."Jason took the weapon and studied it, then raised an eyebrow. "A gladius? This is a Roman weapon.""Yeah, some of my Vulcan brothers showed us how to 'properly' make them," Jake replied. "In return, we showed them how we forge Greek weaponry. I offered to show them more modern swords, but they didn't seem that interested."
It's good that we're exchanging information.
Jason tested the weapon's grip and commented, "My coin was a Greek weapon. A Xiphos and a javelin. I think you saw it. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to get a replacement.""Aw, sorry, man," Jake offered his condolences before nodding towards the gladius. "Well, try it out. You might like it."Jason gave the weapon of few swings.
It's pretty well made.
"Sure, but it'd be better if I had a sparring partner," Jason replied. "When's Percy supposed to get here?""This weekend," Jake replied, and if Jason was being honest with himself, he was upset by the answer. He sighed as he walked over to a training dummy, Jake following. "Something on your mind, dude?"
Well...
"I just..." he said, hacking at the dummy's left arm, "...wish that my friend's had a little more time for me. I mean, I get that Nico has a boyfriend and Leo still hasn't come back, but Percy is on Winter Break. He could do more than his usual, 'visit on the weekends'!" On that last note, Jason sliced the dummy's head off, the helmet clattering on the ground.Jake nodded. "I see. Why not visit his apartment?""Because I can't spar with him outside Camp..." Jason mumbled.Jake frowned and asked, "So, the only reason you want to see Percy is to have a sword fight?"Jason shook his head. "No, I mean that I can't just go and bother him when he's not here. That'd be incredibly rude, especially since I've never been there before, and he has a girlfriend. Not to mention that he'd probably tease me a lot for it. 'Hey, bro! Did you miss me that much. I knew you couldn't get enough of me.'"Jake snorted. "So, instead, you're just going to gripe about it? It's obvious that Percy misses this place when he's not here. He says so every time he comes here. He might even appreciate you visiting. I doubt anyone he knows besides Annabeth visits."Jason huffed. "What, I'm not allowed to gripe? But you know that I'm right about the teasing...Sometimes, I swear that he's flirting with me." The blonde then thought of the times Percy seemed to push the boundaries of their bromance, which given his touchy-feely nature, was already pretty thin.
I've even had people flat out ask if we're in a relationship.
As Jason returned his focus to the training dummy, Jake stared at him as if he'd grown a second head."Gods, you're dense," he said as Jason struck the dummy."What was that?" the blonde asked, not having heard Jake."I said, you seem tense," Jake replied."Yeah, a little," Jason said with a shrug, handing back the weapon to Jake as Nico approached. "It's good, just...not for me.""Hey, guys," the Italian greeted them, causing Jason to smile.Jake, on the other hand, jumped and exclaimed, "Holy fuck!" He dropped the gladius, which narrowly missed his foot. "Sorry, I just...I'm not used to you being around, Nico."Nico rolled his eyes. "That sounds like a you-problem.""We'll talk later, Jake," Jason said to the nervous looking son of Hephaestus. Jake nodded, picking up the sword before leaving. Jason then returned his attention to Nico. "Damn, you don't even have to try to startle someone."Nico sighed. "I'm not trying to startle people.""So, what's up? Anything I can do for you, Neeks?" Jason asked, knowing that there probably wasn't any request Nico could make that he'd say no to.The brunette raised an eyebrow. "Neeks? Still?"Jason frowned. "Do you not like it when I call you that?"Nico quickly shook his head. "No, no, it's okay. It just seems a bit...childish coming from you. It's something that I expect from Percy."
Oh, so true.
Jason smirked. "What, I have to be formal and serious all the time? And speaking of, he's probably the reason that I've learned to lighten up. He's a good influence." He then shrugged. "Or a bad influence."Nico chuckled, shaking his head. "No, definitely a good influence. Percy is just so...Percy."Jason couldn't help but laugh. "You've described him perfectly. Anyways, is there something you needed?""Just checking up on you," Nico replied. "I know that you're probably bummed about Piper and everything."The blonde suppressed a sigh.
Yeah, I'm a bit bummed, but not because of Piper.
Instead, he asked, "What gave you the idea that I'm still upset over Piper?""I don't know. You just seem..." Nico shrugged, "...somewhat distant."Jason raised an eyebrow. "Distant?""Like...you're here...alone," the Italian replied. "You know, you're always welcome to hang out with me and Will."
That's the problem...you and Will.
Despite his feelings, Jason managed a genuine smile because he was still happy for Nico. "Thanks, but the whole reason I'm here alone is because too many people ask for lessons later in the day. Besides, I wouldn't want to take away any of your focus on Will.""Jason, you're just as important to me as Will," Nico insisted. "It's never an inconvenience."Jason nodded and said, "Thanks, but I'll pass. It just feels...a little awkward."Nico looked as if he was about to say something else, but Will just happened to approach the two of them, smiling brightly at his boyfriend."There you are, cuteness," he affectionately referred to Nico, causing him to blush.
Cute.
"Will~," Nico whined ever so adorably. "I'm the Ghost King, not 'cuteness'."Will shrugged. "Whatever you say...cuteness."Jason looked towards the other blonde and said, "Hey, Will.""Hey, Jason. How's it hanging?" Will asked."Erm...I just woke up not too long ago," Jason replied."Well, you look great, buddy," Will chirped. "Anyways, Nico and I were gonna get some breakfast. Wanna join us?"Jason raised an eyebrow. "Isn't that not allowed?""I can always write you a doctor's note," Will offered, and Jason got the hint.
He's saying, 'It's okay for you to hang out with Nico'.
"I'm fine," Jason lied. "You two enjoy breakfast."Will frowned softly. "Are you sure?"Does he have to insist? I know he's trying to help, but...Jason nodded. "Yeah. Besides, I already ate."
Okay, that's another lie.
"Well...okay," Will relented. "Nico, you ready to go?"Nico sighed. "Yeah...See ya, Jason.""See ya," Jason answered before the two walked off holding hands.
...
The son of Jupiter sighed deeply, feeling both happy and depressed simultaneously.I'm glad Nico's happy. I just wish that I was the one making him that happy...WillThe son of Apollo started to get frustrated with his boyfriend pushing around his food on his plate instead of eating it.
Doesn't he know how important breakfast is?
Having had enough, he called, "Nico?" The Italian didn't seem to hear him, continuing to play with his food.
Yeah, he's definitely upset.
"Nico," he repeated, only to be met by the same result
Oh, for the love of...
"Nico!" he all but shouted, causing his boyfriend to jump slightly. "You okay? You've barely touched your food.""Yeah, I'm okay," Nico replied, obviously lying.Will reached out and grabbed Nico's hand. "Talk to me. What's wrong?""I..." Nico started, then sighed. "I'm worried about Jason. He was pretty upset after he broke up with Piper, and it wasn't easy convincing him not to go to Edgraton. Now...it's like he's acting how he did then."
He's not wrong.
"He's probably still adjusting," Will tried, even though he knew the reason. "It's not easy going through what he did, and people grieve in their own way."Nico gave him a nonplussed expression and asked, "Why do I get the feeling that you know exactly what's wrong?"
...Busted.
Will sighed. "Because I do. Thing is...Jason likes someone. Probably goes a little deeper than that." Based on his expression, Nico was quite surprised to hear that."Really? Why doesn't he tell them?""Because they're already in a relationship."Nico sighed and nodded. "Yeah, I know what that's like. It's rough...Do I know the person?"Will answered, "I would hope so," only to wonder if that gave it away.
Did I say too much?
"I see," Nico replied, worrying the blonde a bit, only to ask, "Who is she?" which immediately relieved him.Safe. Jason should be the one to tell him."You might wanna try again with the gender, babe," Will hinted.Nico frowned. "Try again. What are you...Wait..." A look of realization slowly dawned over him. "Are you saying it's a guy?!""Right on the money," Will answered."But, I thought that Jason was straight," Nico pointed out."Just because someone's dated the opposite gender doesn't necessarily mean they're straight," Will countered. "Hades, people thought you had the hots for Annabeth."Nico slowly nodded. "Alright...fair enough. Oh, a bit of a warning, be careful about invoking my dad's name. He tends to listen in when people do. He might even show up.
Right...
Will winced and said, "My bad. Wouldn't want my first meeting with him to because I used his name like that. Anyways, did you want to try inviting Jason to lunch, or would you rather just talk to him?""If I invite him to lunch, he'll probably just turn it down," Nico answered rather somberly. "I'll just try asking him."Will smiled. "Don't worry too much, Nico. I'm sure he'll stick around. He cares about you too much to leave permanently."Nico finally managed a smile himself. "You really think so?"Will answered, "I know so. Now eat your breakfast.""Yes, Will," Nico replied, starting to eat.
I hope this goes well.
PercyThank the gods that guy dodged. But now, he's in danger. Thanks a lot, Lester.The son of Poseidon popped his seatbelt and looked over his shoulder to check on his passengers and asked, "You guys okay?"One of his passengers, Meg, shoved against her door, exclaiming, "Won't open. Get me out of here!"Great. Just...great.
'Oh, it'll be okay, Percy. You're only driving us to Camp.'
Percy turned around and rolled his eyes.Yeah, right... I should have known better.Percy tried his own door, only to find it jammed against the side of one of the two peach trees.
Fuck!
Suddenly, the person Percy managed to avoid ran up to the front of the car. The son of Poseidon couldn't make out his face, as most of it was hidden by a shadow, but could tell that he was frowning.He is (understandably) not happy. But it's not my fault!Something then occurred to him.
Wait...it's that guy!
"It's you!" Percy shouted, causing the hooded figure to recoil as if taken aback."You know who I am?""Yes!" Percy answered, then realized that he technically didn't. "I mean...no. I mean...it's complicated.""Enlighten me," the stranger replied."Look, I'll explain everything later," Percy assured him. "Just help me get out of here first."The hooded figure seemed to contemplate the request for a moment, then nodded. "Alright. Put the car in neutral."
What's he up to?
Percy decided to do as he was told. "Now what?""Don't brace yourself. Relax," the hooded figure answered, and before Percy could ask why, the car was kicked out from between the trees."Holy shit!" Percy cursed, along with some other choice words from his occupants.
Wasn't expecting that, though to be honest, what exactly was I expecting?
The hooded figure then stepped next to Percy's side. "Cover your eyes." Percy was about to ask why. "Don't ask why, just do it!"
Bossy.
Percy shielded his eyes with his arm, only to hear the sound of glass shattering. The next thing he knew, he was being pulled through the now broken window of the Prius.
Paul's going to kill me...
"Was that really..." Percy started to ask, only for the hooded man to move his head to the left, then the right. "Erm...what are you doing?""Checking for lacerations," the hooded figure replied before releasing Percy and nodding. "You don't seem to have any major external injuries, but you should get yourself checked.""Yeah, I'll do that later. First, I need to..." Percy stopped short when he noticed a frown. "What?""...Percy? Percy Jackson?" the hooded figure asked.The son of Poseidon was taken aback. "Yes...Do you know me?""Yes...I mean, no. I mean...it's complicated," the hooded figure echoed Percy's words from earlier."Okay, we need to sort this out..." Percy said, only to see the reason he had crashed approaching, "...as soon as we're safe."
This is turning out to be more than way more than I bargained for.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

PercyThe three smoky figures stopped by the edge of the orchard…before advancing slowly and taking solid form, gaining arms, legs, eyes, and rather hungry looking mouths.Can't I just have a normal day? A day where something doesn't try and kill me?"STOP!" Lester shouted at the spirits. "I am the god, Apollo!"To Percy's shock, the three spirits actually stopped, hovering approximately forty feet from them.
I doubt it'll last.
"Did…Did this guy hit his head or something?" the stranger asked.Percy sighed, wishing that had been the case. "Yes, but probably not from the accident.""I'm guessing that this sort of thing is normal for you," the stranger noted."You have no idea…" Percy mumbled.Meg tumbled out of the car, and Lester advanced towards the spirits.
Is he crazy?!
"Leave us or be destroyed!" the former god threatened."Can he back that up?" the stranger quietly queried.Percy shook his head and softly spoke back, "Probably not.""BLOFIS!" Lester bellowed.
Blofis? My step-dad?
The figures trembled…before they solidified further into undead like beings with tattered clothes, gaping wounds, and yellow eyes
Nico would probably be very helpful right about now…
"Oh, dear…" Lester said with much less confidence.
Yeah, I figured this would happen.
"I remember now," the former god continued.
I'm guessing we're in for a fight.
Percy drew Riptide and uncapped it; it grew into his signature Celestial Bronze sword. The stranger planted his large sword into the ground, then rolled up the sleeves of his coat, revealing two black bracelets; the bracelets expanded, turning into gauntlets.What kind of weapons are those? They're certainly cool enough. Wait…would those be weapons or armor?"Remember what?" Percy asked. "How to kill these things?"
That would be really great right about now.
Lester shook his head. "No. I remember what they are: Nosoi, plague spirits. Also…they can't be killed."
You've got to be fucking kidding me?!
The stranger smirked and asked, "Oh, really?"
At least he hasn't lost his confidence.
Percy took his fighting stance. "Nosoi, huh? You know, I keep thinking, I've now killed every single thing in Greek mythology. But the list never seems to end.""You haven't killed me yet," Lester noted."Don't tempt me," Percy grumbled."Get in line," the stranger added. "I've got dibs."
Well, at least he isn't blaming me.
The nosoi shuffled forwards, mouths gaped, tongues lolled, eyes glistening with yellow mucus. Percy suppressed the urge to cringe in disgust.
Ugh, these things are gross.
"These creatures are not myths," Lester stated. "Of course, most things are not myths."No, duh. Every demigod learns that if they wanna survive. Is there a story about it? Chances are that it's probably real."Expect for that story about how I flayed the satyr, Marsyas, alive. That was a total lie," the former god continued.Percy spared a glance at Lester. "You did what?""Guys," Meg interrupted, picking up a dead tree branch. "Could we talk about that later?"
Fair enough.
"Why not now? It seems more interesting than those wastes of space there," the stranger commented whilst gesturing to the nosoi.I think this guy is probably the most interesting one here. Also, we both seem to have questions."Apollooooo…" the middle plague spirit said.Geez, it sounds like a seal with bronchitis. Trust me, I would know.It continued, "We have cooooome to-…""Let me stop you right there," Lester interrupted as he crossed his arms.Is he trying to look intimidating? He's really not…"You've come to take your revenge on me, eh?" 'Apollo' asked."They'll have to get in line, too," the stranger muttered softly enough to escape the former god's notice, but not softly enough for the son of Poseidon to not overhear.
I'm starting to like this guy.
Lester turned his gaze towards Percy and the stranger. "You see, nosoi are the spirits of disease."I already figured that. I'm not as dumb as people think. Besides, look at them! The only way it could be more obvious is if they carried a sign saying it!"Once I was born, spreading illness became part of my job," Lester continued.
Gods, I'm shocked…not.
"I use plague arrows to strike down naughty populations with smallpox, athlete's foot, that sort of thing," the former god explained."Gross," Meg commented.
Agreed.
"Somebody's got to do it!" Lester argued, Percy managing to not roll his eyes. "Better a god, regulated by the Council of Olympus and with proper health permits, than a horde of uncontrolled spirits like these.""Oh, yes, that makes me feel so much better," the stranger deadpanned.
I think he and Nico would be along.
"We're trying to have a mooooment here," the nosoi on the left gurgled. "Stop interrupting! We wish to be free, uncontroooo-…""Yes, I know," Lester interrupted.
Rude much?
"You'll destroy me. Then you'll spread every known malady across the world. You've been wanting to do that ever since Pandora let you out of the jar. But you can't. I will strike you down!" Lester threatened.
Yeah, right.
The nosoi on the right bared rotten teeth. "What will you strike us down with? Where is your booow?""It appears to be missing," Lester replied.
Again, no, duh.
"But…is it really?" the former god added. "What if it's hidden under this Led Zeppelin T-shirt, and I'm about to whip out and shoot you all?""You're a terrible liar," the stranger muttered, again, quietly enough not to be overheard by 'Apollo', but not quietly enough for Percy.I agree. I'm a much better liar, and that isn't saying much. Monsters just tend to be…well, stupid.The nosoi shuffled, as if nervous."Yooou lie," the middle spirit stated.The son of Poseidon cleared his throat. "Umm…hey, Apollo-…""I know what you're going to say," the former god cut Percy off. "You, Meg, and Mr. Dark-and-Mysterious have come up with a clever plan to hold off these spirits while I run away to Camp."Percy mentally rolled his eyes.As if. I'm not risking my life for some self-entitled former god. Hell, I wouldn't risk my life to a self-entitled current god!"I hate to see you sacrifice yourselves, but-…" he continued."That's not what I was gonna say," Percy interrupted, raising Riptide. "I was gonna ask what happens if I just slice and dice these mouth-breathers with Celestial Bronze."The center nosoi let out a chortle, his yellow eyes gleaming. "A sword is such a small weapon. It does not have the pooooooetry of a good epidemic.""You'd be surprised at what a sword can do," the stranger growled.Is he referring to that big ass sword? That thing looks like it could do some serious damage."Stop right there!" Lester yelled, seemingly indignant. "You can't claim both my plagues and my poetry!"Percy mentally smacked his forehead.Really? That's the issue? Not un-killable disease spirits?The plague spirits replied, "You are right. Enough wooooords." The nosoi shuffled towards them, and Lester thrust out his arms.Nothing happened.
I'm not surprised.
"This is insufferable!" the former god whined. "How do demigods do it without auto-win power?"
We try very, very, very hard, that's how.
Meg stabbed her branch into the closest spirit's chest: it stuck, and glittering smoke began curling down the length of the wood.
That doesn't seem good.
"Let go! Don't let the nosoi touch you!" Lester loudly warned them. Meg instantly let go of the piece of wood and backed away."Not a problem," the stranger commented. He thrust his hands forward, and the gauntlets made a cocking sound, akin to pumping a shotgun; when he pulled his hands back, the gauntlets expelled (surprise-surprise) shotgun shells.What in the world?! Seriously, I know a lot of people who'd literally kill to have those!Together, Percy and the stranger charged at the nosoi; the son of Poseidon swung his blade whilst dodging the spirits' attempts to ensare him, but his efforts were in vain. For when his sword connected with the plague spirits, their bodies dissolved into glittering mist before reforming.Damn it! I might as well be cutting air! Where's Jason when I need him?!The stranger had yet to strike, but his movements flowed seamlessly, dodging all attempts to harm him with surprising ease and grace.He's good. Very good.As a spirit lunged for the son of Poseidon, the stranger punched in its direction. A shot of air fired from the gauntlet, knocking the nosoi to the ground."Thanks!" Percy shouted.The stranger replied, "Don't thank me yet!" He started punching rapidly at the air, his gauntlets unleashing a barrage of solid air, which began to circle around them. He smirked, held up his left hand, and snapped his fingers. The balls of solid air homed in on the nosoi, consuming them in an explosion of wind.How in the world did he do that? Maybe he's Jason's long lost brother..."I suggest that we run," the stranger noted, picking up his oversized sword.Percy nodded. "Yeah…That's probably a good idea." He, the stranger, and Meg bolted…with Lester in tow. Together, they sprinted through the orchard. The son of Poseidon spotted the Camp border and pointed towards it. "That's the western border of the Camp. If we can just get there…" He then saw and irrigation tank on a tractor-trailer.
Perfect!
As the group passed it, Percy flicked his wrist, controlling the water inside and causing the side of the tank to explode. The subsequent wall of water crashed into the plague spirits behind them.Meg grinned. "That was good." She began to skip in the dress Sally had provided her. "We're gonna make it."Lester was gasping like a fish out of water. "We can't…They'll just-…" Suddenly, three glimmering pillars if smoke rose in front of them; two of the nosoi took solid form, one with a tree branch in his chest. Unfortunately, Percy didn't see the third nosoi in time, running straight into it.
Oh, fuck…
"Don't breathe!" Lester warned. Percy gave him an incredulous look.
Seriously?!
The son of Poseidon fell to his knees, clawing at his throat.Not again. Please, not again.Percy heard talking, but due to his current state, he couldn't make out what was being said.Water! I need water!Suddenly, son of Poseidon found himself doused with water, washing the nosoi off of him.Thank the gods! Wait… I didn't do that.Percy struggled to his feet to find the stranger with a stream of water circling around him, the central bands of the rings on his right hand glowing blue.Okay, who is this guy?…I don't feel so good.The stranger thrust his right hand towards the former god, washing a nosoi off him, as well; he rolled away and gasped for air. The nosoi reformed, dripping wet and looking very annoyed."GET DOWN!" Meg yelled, just as the dead peaches around the orchard began to levitate.Percy and Lester followed her suggestion."Shit…" the stranger cursed as a metallic looking orb appeared in his left hand. He struck it with his right, causing it to glow blue before hexagonal shaped lights completely surrounded him, forming a shield of sorts.
Seriously, who is this guy?
The peaches shot around the orchard before tearing through the bodies the plague spirits; Meg remained unharmed, and the ice around the stranger held firm. The nosoi were less fortunate, collapsing."Whah just happened?" Percy asked, his chest and nose congested.
Just great…
"I don't know," Lester admitted. "Meg, is it safe?"Meg was busy staring in amazement at the barrage of fruit, mangled bodies of the nosoi, and broken branches. "I…I'm not sure."Percy sniffled. "How'd you do thah?"Ugh, this is the worst! I hate it when I have a stuffy nose!Meg shot him a horrified look. "I didn't! I just…knew it would happen!"
Umm…okay?
One of the cadaverous bodies of the nosoi began to stir.
Uh-oh.
It wobbled as it stood on heavily perforated legs, and growled, "But you did doooo it. Yooou are strong, child." The other two plague spirits stood."But not strong enough," the second nosos noted. "We will finish you off now."The third nosos bared his teeth. "Your guardian would be sooooo disappointed."
Guardian?
Meg looked like she had just been slugged in the stomach; her face paled, and she began to tremble.Suddenly, the shield encasing the stranger shattered, and he bellowed, "That's it! I'm done playing games!" He thrusted his left hand to his side, another orb appearing. He crushed it and reopened his hand, a bright blue ball of energy blazing in his palm.
By the gods!
The stranger flung dozens of orbs of bright blue fire into the air around them."What's this?" one of the plague spirits hissed."Your end!" the stranger answered in furious tone."What a usele-…""Shut up!"The stranger's rings on his left hand glowed purple, patterns of the same color appearing along his sleeves. A shot fired from the gauntlet on his right, and it dispersed the nosoi briefly before forming a vortex around a dark center, compressing it. The blue fireballs homed in on one of the nosoi; it shrieked as it was consumed in a large blue blast. When the dust cleared, the plague spirit was gone without a single trace.
Did he…actually kill it?
The stranger's gauntlet expelled the empty shells, while he pulled out a small ammo belt, reloading the weapon. He punched several times at the nosoi, trapping it in the same shield he had used to defend himself from the peaches earlier. He then rotated his hand, causing the shield to compress tightly around it. He then gripped his large sword with both hands, and a blue aura flowed over the blade."You shall die," he said before moving with far more speed than should've been possible with such a weapon towards another of the nosoi and promptly destroyed it, along with the shield, with a mighty swing, the result seemingly more like an explosion as dirt rained down.
Okay, he's really, really good.
The nosos didn't reform. Instead, it dissolved into dust, the golden dust itself losing its luster.
Only one left.
The stranger suddenly wavered and collapsed to his knees whilst planting his sword into the ground and panting heavily."Are you okah?" Percy asked, still congested.The stranger nodded his head. "Yeah…yeah, I'm fine""You sure?" Percy pressed.The stranger coughed a bit and stood, wavering a bit and using the sword for support. "I'm a bit winded."
Not good.
"Goooood. Let us finish this," the remaining nosos said. It pointed at Lester. "Starting with yooou."
Hey, at least it's not me.
"NO!" Meg yelled with a stamp of her foot. More peaches swirled into the air, but this time, they gathered and blurred together in a small fruit tornado until it formed into a creature Percy immediately recognized.Not this thing again. Kapoi suck!"Oh, no," Percy said while shaking his head. "I hate those things.""W-What is it?" Meg asked hesitantly.Lester looked at her as if she'd grown a second head before answering, "It's a grain spirit." His tone wasn't as confident as the former god thought it was. "I've never seen a peach karpos before, but if it's vicious as the other types..."The remaining nosos inched backwards. "Do not interfere. We…I will not alloooow-… The peach karpos launched itself at the corpse and bit his head off in a single bite.
Eww.
Within seconds, it was torn to shreds and devoured. The creature then went over to Meg, howled, and beat its chest."Peaches!"
Fitting.
Percy sniffed and raised his sword. "Meg, don move. I'm gonna-…""No!" Meg exclaimed. "Don't hurt him."Umm…what? Is she defending this…this thing?She carefully put her hand on the creatures curly head. "You saved us…Thank you." The grain spirit hugged Meg's leg and glared at Percy."Peaches," the karpos growled."Oh, yes, it saved you. I did absolutely nothing," the stranger commented in voice dripping with more sarcasm than Percy's nose was running snot.
He's got a point.
"Huh…he likes you," the son of Poseidon noted, finding the situation rather disturbing. "Umm…why?""I don't know. Honestly, I didn't summon him!" Meg exclaimed.
I would correct her and say that she didn't summon it on purpose, but after what it just did, I'd rather not.
"Well, whatever the case, we owe the karpos our lives," Lester said. "This brings to mind an expression I coined ages ago: A peach a day keeps the plague spirits away!"
Wait…what?
Percy sneezed. "Uh…I thought it was apples and doctors." The karpos hissed in reply, and Percy held up his hands. "Or peaches. Peaches work, too."I still don't like these things. Scratch that, I hate them."Peaches," the karpos said, likely agreeing.The son of Poseidon wiped his running nose. "Not to criticize, but why is he grooting?"Meg frowned at him. "Grooting?"Seriously? Has she been living under a rock?Percy nodded. "Yeah, like thah character in the movie...only saying one thing over and over.""I'm afraid I haven't seen that movie," Lester said.Shocker. Probably because he isn't the star."But this karpos does seem to have a very…targeted vocabulary," he continued."Maybe Peaches is his name," Meg commented, stroking through the grain (or fruit) spirit's hair, drawing a creepy purr from it.
That's just disturbing.
"That's what I'll call him," Meg continued."Whoa, you are not adopting thah-…" Percy started before sneezing...and accidentally causing an irrigation pipe to explode behind him; there appeared a row of small geysers.
This sucks…
"Ugh. Sick," Percy lamented."You're lucky," Lester replied. "That strangers trick with the water diluted the spirit's power. Instead of getting a deadly illness, you got a head cold.""I hate head colds," Percy complained. "None of you got sick?"Meg and the stranger shook their heads."I have an excellent constitution. No doubt, that's what saved me," the former god boasted."And the fact that I washed the smoke off of you," the stranger added."Well, yes," Lester replied.Even though Percy couldn't see the vast majority of the stranger's face, he could practically feel him glaring at Apollo.Doesn't Apollo have any manners?… Why am I even asking that question?"Ah…thank you," Lester said after an awkward silence. The stranger scoffed and shook his head."Can we go now?" Meg asked."An excellent idea," Lester replied. "Though I'm afraid Percy is in no condition-…""I can drive you the rest of the way," Percy interrupted. He glanced towards the direction of the car, and Percy felt even more miserable, as he spotted a police cruiser pulling over to the side of the road. "Aww, Hades, no…"
Please, just ignore the car…
The lights of the cruiser flashed on."Great," Percy grumbled. "If they tow the Prius, I'm dead. My mom and Paul need thah car.""Go talk to the officers," Lester said. "You won't be of any use to us in your current condition."
Gee…thanks.
"Yeah, we'll be fine," Meg added. "You said that the Camp is right over those hills?""Right, but…" Percy started, then frowned. "Most people enter from the east, where Half-Blood Hill is. The western border is wilder — hills and woods, all heavily enchanted. If you're not careful, you can get lost…" He sneezed again.
Ugh, I hate this!
"I'm not even sure Apollo can get in if he's fully mortal," the son of Poseidon added."I'll get in," Lester replied. "Go. We'll find our way through the woods. You can explain to the police that you're sick and that you lost control of the car. They'll go easy on you."
Yeah, right.
Percy laughed. "Yeah. Cops love me just as much as teachers do." He then glanced at Meg. "You sure you're okay with that baby fruit demon?"The karpos growled.
That thing is just freaky.
"All good," Meg replied. "Go home. Rest. Get lots of fluids."
How ironic.
Percy's mouth twitched at the comment. "You’re telling a son of Poseidon to get lots of fluids? Okay. Just try to survive until the weekend, alright? I'll come to Camp and check on you guys if I can. Be careful and-..." He sneezed again. Grumbling to himself, he capped Riptide, turning it back to its pen form before pocketing it. He then trudged down the hill, sniffling and sneezing all the while…until he felt a hand on his shoulder."Hold up," the stranger said. Percy stopped to look at the stranger.He's shorter than I am. How the hell can he carry that sword, much less use it? Some sort of magic?Percy raised an eyebrow. "What?""I'm going to Camp Half-Blood, and you're gonna take me there," the stranger answered. "Besides, I want answers."
Well…so do I.
"Okay, but whah about my cold?" Percy asked in a congested voice, turning to face the stranger."They got an infirmary?""Of course they do.""Then there you go. Problem solved."…Percy asked, "What about the car? I need to get it back to my mom and step-dad.""That's not my problem, Percy."
Okay, I really wanna know how this guy knows who I am. Also, what is that accent? I'm having trouble placing it. Seems like English is his native tongue, but…Questions for later.
The son of Poseidon sighed. "Okay, fine. But, how are we gonna get out of this situation? You're pretty suspicious looking. No offense."The stranger shrugged. "None taken. As for the car…I suppose I can take care of it. Just leave it to me." He pulled back his hood, and Percy was quite taken aback. Before him stood a young man, probably close to the same age as either himself, with a face one could only describe as 'boyish' or 'youthful'. His skin tone was the similar to Percy's, though slightly lighter, and he had wild dark brown hair, though it appeared light brown where the sunlight struck it. It was slightly spiked with some bangs that partially covered his eyes, though he made no move to brush his hair away. Though out of all his features, the eyes really stood out.
Whoa…this is one good looking guy.
Percy mentally frowned at his thoughts.
What did I just think? But…he is. If I'm being honest, it's not the first time I thought that about a guy. No big deal. Why I even…
Percy blushed.
Focus, brain. More important things to think about.
"How about some introductions? Name's Samuel Lucis Caelum. Call me Sam," the (no longer) stranger said, then smirked and pointed to his head. "Got it memorized?"Pery nodded. "Sure do. I'm…well, you already know." He then frowned. "How do you know?""One thing at a time," Sam answered. "First, let's take care of the car-situation.""So, whah the plan?" Percy asked."Well, first…" Sam said before grabbing a small rectangular object from the air with a blue diamond in the center. He then pressed the diamond, and the object expanded to reveal a clear, flat surface; the surface lit up, and Percy saw several things on it.
It's a screen?
"What's that?" Percy asked."It's called a Scroll," Sam answered. Percy nodded as Sam started tapping the screen.
Doesn't look like any scroll I've ever seen.
Percy leaned closer. "So…is it a smartphone or something?""I'd say 'or something' is the best answer," Sam replied. "Don't worry, it won't broadcast you to any monsters...at least for five minutes. It's hard to explain. Let's just say that there's an app for that.""Alright," Percy said with a nod. "And…what exactly are you doing with it?""I'm hacking into the FBI's database. There's an app for that, too," Sam answered rather casually.Percy nodded again. "Oh…okay."
Wait, what?!
Percy opened his mouth, but Sam put a finger to his mouth, saying, "Don't shout. You'll give us away." He then nodded, pulling his finger away. "All set. Now for the next part."The Scroll vanished and Sam started speaking in a language Percy didn't recoginize.
Is that more Latin?
Sam's form shimmered, and he changed his cloak changed into what looked like a FBI uniform, and his hair became well groomed as opposed to its punkish look. Meanwhile, the sword took the form of...a briefcase.By the gods… Can I learn that? It'd be very useful."Just follow my lead, and everything will be fine," Sam said. Percy nodded, following after him.
Is this really gonna work?
"Exuse me?! Is there a problem?!" Sam shouted when he got and Percy got close enough.The officer turned his attention towards them. "Umm…who are you?"Sam pulled out a badge from his pocket. "Federal agents! Run my plates!"
He seems to know what do say.
Sam then turned towards Percy. "Special Agent Jackson, please, get back in the car."
Wait…what?!
"Come on, we're burning daylight, rookie! Do you wanna lose your job?! Move it!" Sam ordered as the officer walked over to the cruiser, opened the door, and leaned inside. Percy got into the Prius."Well, I'll be damned…" the officer said. "You're FBI. Didn't know they could start so young…"Well…I'll be damned. It actually worked."Federal agent!" Sam yelled, pointing to himself. "We're looking for a Federal prisoner! You are interfering with a Federal investigation! Move your ass!"Percy supressed a snicker at the over-the-top performance.
He certainly knows how to act the part.
"Sorry! Right away!" the officer replied, hoping into his cruiser before speeding away, relieving Percy immensely.
Really dodged a bullet there.
Sam sighed and his form returned to normal; he wavered slightly."You okay? How did you do that?" Percy asked, feeling rather concerned.Sam nodded. "Yeah, I'm good. Let's just get out of here.""Yeah…let's," Percy agreed.NicoAfter finishing breakfast and asking around, the son of Hades found Jason in the Zeus Cabin along with Malcolm, the two seemingly working on something near a desk.
Why is Malcolm here?
"Hey, guys," Nico announced himself, immediately drawing their attention. "How's it going?""Oh, hey, Nico," Jason replied. "Just working on a new arrangement for temples and shrines.""Oh, yeah? How's that going?" Nico inquired.Jason moved to the side. "Why don't you take a look?"Nico stepped closer to find a diorama of New Rome's temples. "Wow, it looks like…a school project."Jason frowned. "Is that…good?"Nico smiled. "I'd give it an A."Jason smiled back. "Thanks. Anyways, what's up? Did you wanna talk?"Nico nodded and replied. "Yeah, actually. In private, if you don't mind.""Sure," Jason said with a nod before looking to Malcolm. "Could you give us a moment?""Yeah, sure," Malcom replied, starting to leave. "Hey, Nico." He then closed the door.Jason returned his attention to Nico. "What's up?" Nico grew nervous, tensing slightly. "Relax, Nico. You can talk to me about anything."Yeah… this is Jason. He's not going to bite my head off.Nico relaxed, took a deep breath, and asked, "Do you…like someone?"Jason's smile dropped, then he sighed. "Yeah…I do""And he's already in a relationship, isn't he?"Jason blinked, looking a bit surprised. "He…Yeah, he is."
He's taking this well.
Nico smiled a bit. "Y'know…I know what's it like.""I know," Jason replied.
It's Percy.
"I mean, I can see why you'd fall for him. He's brave, funny, really good looking…" Nico continued."I…" Jason started, then looked puzzled. "Wait, what?"Nico nodded. "It's Percy, isn't it? The guy you like?""Percy? No, it isn't Percy. Why did you think I liked Percy?" Jason asked.It was Nico's turn to look puzzled. "It…isn't Percy? But you two seem so close. I mean…all the signs were there."Jason moved his glasses up to rub his eyes. "Nico, trust me, you're not the first person to ask that. In fact, quite a few people have asked if we were secretly seeing each other, and we had a very hard time putting an end to those rumors…Which apparently never stopped. Granted, Percy's behavior certainly didn't help things.""That's…yeah, that's Percy for you," Nico agreed, though feeling beyond embarrassed from the mishap.Oh, gods, I can't believe I thought it was Percy! I'm such an idiot!Nico then asked, "Well, if it isn't Percy, who is it?""It's you."
Did I mishear that?
Nico shook his head. "I'm sorry…what?"Jason sighed. "It's you, Nico."Wait, wait, wait…what?! Me?! But…"Hold on," Nico said, realization slowly dawning on him.
All those time…
"So, those times Percy would suddenly leave while we were hanging out…was he trying to set us up?""Yes," Jason flatly stated."And that time Percy told you to show me the view from the top of your Cabin…was that…a date?""Technically speaking?" Jason asked, and Nico nodded. "Yeah, it was."Needless to say, the Ghost King was a bit overwhelmed by the turn of events.…Holy shit! It's…me!After several moments of awkward silence, Nico finally spoke, "Wow…"Jason raised an eyebrow. "Wow?""I just…really wasn't expecting that," Nico admitted, not quite sure how he was supposed to feel.Jason scratched his cheek. "Well…I didn't want to make you uncomfortable."Uncomfortable? With Jason? I might be many things right now, but uncomfortable isn't one of them. I…I need to assure him."Jason, you're probably the person with whom I'm the most comfortable," Nico stated, then blushed softly. "…That does explain why you kissed me on the during our…date."Jason smiled a tad. "I wanted to kiss you on the lips, but I didn't want to push you.""That's…very sweet of you," Nico replied.
If he had kissed me on the lips then…would I have kissed him back?
Nico mentally shook his head.
That's not important right now.
"You're not going to…leave, are you?" Nico asked. "I don't want you to leave.Jason smiled. "No, I'm not going to leave, Nico." The words relieved the Italian immensely."So, we're cool?"The blonde nodded. "Yeah, we're cool."Nico sighed in relief. "I'm glad." He then looked at the diorama. "Umm…did you need any help? I mean, I'm no Annabeth, but…""Yeah, I'd actually like that," Jason answered.Nico smiled. "Cool. Now, what gods are left?"PercyPercy managed to make it into the eastern border of Camp Half-Blood just before his car broke down.
Thank the gods, we made it.
Percy looked into his rear view mirror, finding Sam with his eyes closed, and said, "We're here." Sam opened his eyes, and Percy breathed a sigh of relief.Thank the gods, my dream guy is still alive… That came out wrong.Percy opened the driver door before opening the passenger door for Sam.The young man stepped out. "So…this is Camp Half-Blood, huh?"The son of Poseidon nodded and sniffed. "Thah right."Chiron approached them. "Welcome to…Oh, it's you, Mr. Jackson. I didn't expect to see you until the weekend.""Change of plans," Percy replied.
Well, it's the truth.
Chiron nodded, then turned his gaze towards Sam. "Who's you're friend?"Percy frowned. "My friend? Who are you…" He followed Chiron's gaze. "Oh, right! Umm…this is Sam."The Activities Director nodded. "A pleasure to meet you, Sam.""Erm…likewise," Sam replied. "You're Chiron, correct?""Yes, that's correct," Chiron replied. "How did you know?"Sam simply shrugged. "Centaur in a place that trains demigods? Seemed like a safe bet."Chiron gave an amused smile. "You're not wrong."Why do I feel like I'm forgetting something? Oh, that's right!"Has Apollo and a girl named Meg arrived here?" Percy asked. "They're coming from the western border."The Centaur shook his head. "I don't believe they have."So, we made it there before them. Well, we did take a car, so it makes sense that we would. I hope they're alright…"Hopefully, they'll arrive here shortly. We'll be sure to have some campers on the look out for them," Chiron stated.
It's the best we can do.
Percy then felt a hand on his shoulder. "Hey…Percy?""What's up?" Percy asked, turning his head towards Sam, finding him wavering again, and for some reason, his hair had lost its punkish style. "You good?""I don't…feel so goo…" Sam didn't finish, beginning to collapse and dragging Percy with him. The son of Poseidon fell awkwardly, somehow ending up beneath Sam, arms wrapped around him."Sam? Sam, are okay?"Sam didn't answer.
Uh-oh.
"Might I suggest going to the infirmary," Chiron…well, suggested."Probably a good idea," Percy agreed."Welcome to Camp Half-Blood!" Will announced his presence.
What good timing.
"That you, Percy?" Will asked, Percy turning his head to face him, only to find the son of Apollo raising an eyebrow. "Erm…what's going on?""What are you…" Percy started, then looked at his position. His cheeks burned. "T-this isn't what it looks like!"Will frowned. "What's it supposed to look like?"The fact that he had immediately jumped to the conclusion only served to fuel Percy's embarrassment.
…I'm an idiot.
"Nothing…" Percy mumbled. "Uhh…we need some help."Will walked over before kneeling down and placing a hand on Sam. "Yeah, that's a definite understatement." He then turned to Chiron. "We're going to need a stretcher.""I'll get to it at once," Chiron said with a nod before galloping towards the infirmary.
Is it really that bad?
"So, can I-…" Percy started to move out from under Sam."Don't move!" Will shouted, causing him freeze. "Just…stay where you are. Your…friend is in really bad condition. Who is this guy, anyways?""His name's Sam," Percy replied."And how did you guys meet?" Will asked.
Guess I'm stuck here for the time being.
"I nearly hit him with the car," Percy answered.Will's eyes widened. "You hit him with your car?!""Nearly!" Percy corrected."Oh, oops…" Will mumbled. "Anything you can tell me about…Sam, was it?"Percy thought about it for a moment, then shook his head. "No, not really. All I know is that he wanted to come here for some reason, and so…here we are."Will nodded and said, "I see."An awkward silence then followed, neither speaking.Well, this is…comfy?… No, definitely not comfy. There's a rock digging into my back!"So…how's Nico?" Percy asked to break the silence."He's happy," Will answered.Percy nodded. "That's good…What about Jason?"The blonde opened his mouth, then sighed. "Honestly, a bit distant. Nico went to talk to him.""That's good. I'm worried about him.""Yeah, you're not the only one."Again, silence followed.Will knows full well that I tried to set up Jason with Nico. That's probably the reason."Umm…" both of them said."You go ahead," Will said next.Percy shook his head. "No, you go. I insist.""Okay. What brings you here so early? Sam?" Will asked.Percy sighed. "No…you're dad showed up at my apartment, wanting to come here, and…well, one thing led to another."Will nodded. "Yeah, that makes sense. You sound a bit congested.""Head cold," Percy answered. "Courtesy of some nosoi that came to kill us.""I've heard of them," Will commented. "Spirits of Disease, right?""That's right," Percy replied.Will then turned his gaze to Sam. "Cute guy.""Yeah, he is," Percy agreed, then blushed at the admission. "Did I just say that out loud?"Will chuckled. "Yes, you did.""I meant objectively," Percy defended himself."Sure you did," Will teased, further embarrassing the son of Poseidon.
Where the fuck is Chiron?!
"Yo, Solace!" a familiar voice called.Is that…Sherman? Oh, gods, not now!"I need a quick stitch, and..." the son of Ares paused as he looked at Percy and chuckled. "Okay, the fuck is happening here?"Will smirked. "It's exactly what you think it is."
Gods damn it, Will!
"No, it's not!" Percy defended himself.Sherman's chuckle became a deep laugh. "Oh, this is just too good!"Percy looked at Will. "Tell him.""Of course," Will replied, looking at Sherman. "Whatever you're thinking happened here? You're correct."Sherman grinned at Percy. "Damn. I always knew you swung both ways, Percy."The son of Poseidon's face had never felt so hot. "Will!"The blonde held up his hands. "Okay, okay. This is Sam, Percy's new…friend?" Percy shrugged. "Friend. He's currently unconscious, guessing he passed out, and we're waiting for Chiron to come back with a stretcher."
You couldn't have explained that sooner?
Sherman frowned. "Well, why don't I just take him. He looks pretty light.""He's…actually heavier than he looks…" Percy mumbled.Will added, "Also, it's not a matter of how heavy he is, it's his condition. Why do you think Percy hasn't moved?"Sherman snorted. "Because he loves it, obviously."Percy looked at the son of Ares. "Hey, Sherman?""Yeah? What's up?" Sherman asked.Percy scowled and shouted, "Go fuck yourself!"Sherman held up his hands and backed up. "Ooo, testy." He walked away, laughing to himself.
Finally.
Percy sighed. "What's taking Chiron?"Will shrugged. "I have no idea. It shouldn't take this long to get a stretcher." He then looked over his shoulder. "Oh, here they come now." Percy followed his gaze to find Austin and Kayla arriving with Chiron, along with a stretcher.."Sorry for taking so long," Austin apologized. "Eris kids…"Will groaned. "Dear gods, what did they do this time?""Threw a golden apple in the dining pavilion. I believe it said, 'For the most badass'," Austin answered."It started a big fight," Kayla added."Fantastic…" Will sighed. "Anyways, get the guy on top of Percy to the infirmary."Austin smirked, approaching them, then laying down the stretcher. "Didn't take you for a bottom, Percy.""Oh, haha," Percy deadpanned.Austin tried to lift Sam, and his eyes widened in surprise. "Oh, damn! Heavier than he looks."Percy looked at Will. "Told you."Austin gestured for Kayla to come closer. "Hey, sis, give me a hand, would you?"Kayla nodded. "Sure." She came over and grabbed Sam's legs."Okay, lift on three," Austin directed. "One…two…three, lift." The two lifted him from Percy and onto the stretcher, and Will stood, extending a hand to Percy."Come on."Percy took it, letting Will help him stand. "Thanks, Will.""No problem," the blonde replied. "Now, let's get you checked out."WillFor the next hour, the son of Apollo had attended to Sam and Percy, listening to Percy recount his day so far. Though he appeared to be out of mortal danger, Will was still checking on Sam, who was lying on a cot."So...you've never met him before?" he asked Percy.The brunette shook his head. "No, we've never met…I think?"Will faced Percy. "You think?""He somehow recognized me, but we didn't get any further than that," Percy elaborated.
Odd.
"How could he recognize you?" Will inquired. "Are you sure you don't remember him? Any info that might help?""Well…" Percy then paused, seemingly mulling over it, "…he said some things in what sounded like Latin. He might be from Camp Jupiter."Will nodded. "Then perhaps Jason will know him. He's been at Camp Jupiter longer than anybody.""Yeah…" Percy sighed. "Where is Jason, anyways?""He's probably still in his Cabin, talking to Nico," Will answered.Percy frowned slightly. "Really? Still? What are they talking about, that it'd take this long?""Jason's feelings."The son of Poseidon looked taken aback. "You told Nico?"Will nodded. "Yeah, he asked.""How much did you tell him?""Jason had feelings for a guy that's already in a relationship. Nothing more."Percy looked at the floor. "Oh…okay.""You okay, Perce?" Will asked, a bit concerned.Percy nodded. "Yeah, I'm just worried about him."Everyone is worried about Jason. Well…those of us who are close to him. Then again, I suppose I'm not all that close to Jason, but…still."Well, why don't you go check on him?" Will suggested. "I'm sure he'll be happy to see you."Percy shook his head. "No, I don't wanna interrupt him and Nico." He then held up his hands. "Not that I'm still trying to set them up."Will smiled. "It's okay, Percy. Anyways, I'm sure they're done talking about what they needed to. Besides, we need to figure out if Sam's from Camp Jupiter."Percy looked at Sam, concern upon his face. "You'll keep an eye on Sam?""Naturally," Will answered."Alright. Be right back," Percy said, taking a few steps before stopping. "Do you hear someone?"Will focused his hearing. "Huh…yeah, I do.""…tried to punch Octavian, but he ducked. Peter punched a tree instead and shattered the bones in his hand," Jason voice came across."How could he miss?" Nico asked. "Octavian didn't exactly seem like the sharpest tool in the shed. He flung himself to his death."They came to us. That's convenient."The guy was actually fairly quick. He just ducked, and bam! Hand broken. I don't think I've ever heard Peter curse so much," Jason explained."I imagine that the dryad from that tree wasn't very happy either," Nico commented."Peter tried to screw her. Don't ask me how it went, I didn't want to know."Nico laughed. "Hey, I just punched you. Wanna fuck?"Jason also chuckled. "I'm pretty sure those were his exact words. Dude's charming, I'll give him that.""Are you saying that they actually…you know?""Let's just say that Peter was forgiven for punching that tree."Nico then came into view. "Yeah…let's just leave it at that."Jason followed. "Thank the gods."Upon seeing him, Percy ran up to Jason and hugged him, burying his face in his shoulder. "Jason! My day's been terrible!""Uh…hi?" Jason replied, clearly not expecting it. He looked to Will, as if for help.Will mouthed, "Hug him!" Jason raised an eyebrow, so Will did the gesture, hoping he'd get the hint. Jason nodded, then hugged Percy.
There we go.
Percy let out a deep sigh.
Aww.
"You alright?" Jason asked.Percy nodded his head slightly. "Yeah…"Will couldn't help but roll his eyes. "Percy, don't you have a girlfriend for this sort of thing?""She's in Boston!" Percy pointed out. "Besides…I like Jason's hug. They're comforting…"Will simply shrugged. "You do seem like a comforting guy, Jason." As for Nico, he gave Jason a somewhat smug look."Don't say anything, I get it…" Jason mumbled.
I'm guessing you had to be there.
Will cleared his throat. "Anyways…we were actually just looking for you, Jason."The other blonde looked at Will. "Really? Why?"Percy pulled back. "Oh, right. We need to see if you recognize someone."Jason nodded. "Alright. Where is this person?"Will gestured to the cot next to him. "Right over here."Jason walked closer and looked at Sam. "This the guy?""Yeah. You know who he is?" Percy asked.Jason shook his head. "No, I don't."
Well, so much for that.
Percy sighed. "Well, so much for that."
Oh, look, an echo.
Jason looked at Will. "What happened to him?""A few cracked ribs, right forearm, shin, and some internal bleeding," the son of Apollo answered.Jason's eyes widened. "Geez, what, did he get into a fight with a god?"Percy shrugged. "We…have no idea. He passed out as soon as we got here."Nico frowned. "We? You guys came together, and you don't know who he is?"Percy shook his head. "No. We just happened to cross paths, though I did have a dream about him the night before. Also…he recognized me.""That's a lot of info real quick," Jason commented. "So, he knows you; you don't know him; you dreamt about him; and you guys meet right after your dream?""Well…" Percy took a moment, then nodded. "Yeah, that about sums it up.""Well then, I think the easiest things is just to wait for him to wake up," Nico noted.Jason nodded. "Agreed."Percy looked at Will, and asked, "Any idea of when that'll be?"Not having an answer, he shrugged. "Could be within a day. Could be longer. His healing rate is quite remarkable, but I can't give specifics. I'll do what I can, but I can't guarantee it'll wake him up any more quickly.""Well, please, let us know the minute he's up," Percy requested."Sure thing," Will replied before Chiron joined them."Ah, good. I just wanted to say that we found Apollo and his companion," he said before leaving."We should probably help with that," Jason said, only for Percy to shake his head."Oh no, I said that I'd take them here, and that's it. This is already way more than I signed up for."Jason frowned. "Then what are you gonna do?""Jason, why don't you and Percy catch up?" Will suggested. "Nico and I will attend to my dad.""Sounds good," Jason replied.Percy smiled. "Great!" He then grabbed Jason's hand and dragged him off.…"And he wonders why those rumors spread," Nico said sarcastically."Oh yeah, I heard about them," Will replied.Nico nodded. "Yeah. So, ready to see your dad."Will sighed. "I suppose.""You don't sound so sure," Nico commented."Let's just get this over with, Nico," Will said a little more harshly than he meant to."Alright..." his boyfriend mumbled, making Will wince."I'm sorry, I'm just…I'm not a fan of my dad, something I'm sure we can all relate to.""Yeah, your dad is kinda…obsessed with himself," Nico agreed."Too obsessed to even say hi to his kids…" Will mumbled bitterly."Well…there's nothing you can do to change that," Nico noted. "Just show that you're better than he is."Will nodded. "Yeah…you're right."His boyfriend smiled. "Then let's go."
I love that smile of his.
Will smiled back. "Yeah. Let's."JasonThe son of Poseidon and son of Jupiter were currently locked in a fast paced duel, the two exchanging blows faster than any regular mortal would be able to perceive. Jason's focus was razor sharp.Block.Parry.Counter.Dodge.Despite seeming evenly matched, it was Percy who held a slight edge in swordsmanship, and that small lead made all the difference when Jason blocked, but Percy slid Riptide down the blade before tapping his arm."Point!" the brunette declared, grinning his cocky grin.
Frank is right, this guy fights like a demon.
"What's the score?" Jason asked."Fifty: twenty," Percy answered, clearly exaggerating. Jason gave him a nonplussed look to show that he wasn't amused. "Okay, it's fifty to forty-five."Jason nodded. "That's better.""You've improved since we last sparred," Percy noted, a look a what seemed to be pride on his face. If Jason was being honest, it did make him feel pretty good about himself. "What are you doing differently?""I've…" Jason stopped short, for he was about to admit that he had been carefully observing how Percy fought.That would either result in a huge ego boost or teasing for watching him.  Probably both…"I've been incorporating the Greek fighting style into my own," he answered instead."Well, it's definitely working," Percy replied. "You're not so…robotic."The blonde frowned in confusion. "Robotic?"Percy nodded. "Yeah, robotic. Your style used to be a lot more straightforward and linear. No feints or anything."Jason shrugged. "Well then, glad I changed it.""Yeah…" Percy said, then frowned."Something wrong?" Jason asked."I heard you had a talk with Nico."Of course he did… Honestly, I'm not surprised.Jason replied, "Yeah, I did.""And…is everything good? Are you okay?" Percy pressed. Jason was a bit touched by the concern."Yeah. We're great, actually.""You're not just saying that, are you?"The blonde shook his head. "No, I'm really not."
Overall, it went a lot better than I expected.
Percy seemingly breathed a sigh of relief. "Oh, good.""What about you and Annabeth? Everything good?" Jason inquired."They're…they're great."
Hold on, what?
"You hesitated," Jason pointed out. "…Why?"Percy nodded. "Yeah, it's just…things are not how I expected."Jason immediately felt concerned, asking, "What did you expect? What is it now?""I don't know…" the son of Poseidon solemnly mumbled. "Maybe having something in common? Our interests couldn't be more different.""But…" Jason nearly objected, then thought better. "I'm sorry. If you don't mind me asking, why did you two get together in the first place?"Percy shrugged in a rather dejected manner. "She has a lot of good qualities, is very pretty, and we've been through a lot together…Those seemed like good enough reasons to me at the time.""Percy…are you happy?"The son of Poseidon averted his gaze, and for what felt like an eternity, he didn't answer. It made Jason feel awful, seeing his friend in such a miserable state."No…I'm not happy," the answer that Jason had been expecting finally came. It was still a harsh blow, nonetheless.Gods, Percy. How could I not see how unhappy you were?"Percy, I know you probably don't want to hear this, but you need to end it," Jason said, and surprisingly, Percy winced upon hearing it. "For both your sakes. Annabeth probably isn't any happier than you are."The brunette huffed. "I'm the one who's supposed to be making sure you're alright right now, not the other way around…"Jason shook his head. "No, Percy, friends look after each other, not take turns. Just because you're worried about me, that doesn't mean you have to ignore your feelings in the meantime.""Always so fucking reasonable…" Percy muttered, making Jason smirk a bit. "Well…how should I handle this?""I suggest that you be honest and straightforward," Jason replied. "It's like ripping off a bandage…which Will advises against, but…you know what I mean.""No, I mean, how should I talk to her? She's not here, and I've heard enough from the Aphrodite kids to know that you shouldn't break up with someone over the phone," Percy clarified."Ah…quite true," Jason agreed. "Did she say when she'd be back?""She didn't give me an exact timeline, no…""Well, what's she doing in Boston, anyways?""Family emergency. Apparently, a lost cousin showed up."
Yeah, that definitely qualifies as a family emergency.
"Lost cousin? Like…kidnapped?" Jason fished for further details."I don't know the details because…I haven't read her letters," Percy replied.Jason was quite taken aback. "You…haven't read her letters? Oh, dude, you gotta end this now if you're doing that."Percy winced again. "Look, I get it, alright?"Jason shook his head. "No, I mean now. Like, right now."Percy raised an eyebrow. "And, how exactly am I supposed to do that?"Jason thought about it for a brief moment."I don't…" he started, when it came to him. "Wait...what's that guy's name. Black hair, lots of scars, total psycho?"Percy frowned. "Total psycho?" A look of realization then came upon him. "Oh, you mean Strife.""Yeah, that guy!" Jason replied with a nod. "Doesn't he live in Boston with his wife?""Yeah. Maybe we should go to the Eris Cabin. He's here right now, isn't he?" Percy asked, Jason nodding in reply. "C'mon, let's go." The two then left the sword fighting area."I really haven't interacted with Strife, but I've heard plenty of stories. Any truth to them?"Percy scoffed. "Trust me, whatever you're thinking, it's probably worse. It's not that he's a bad guy, it's just that he isn't exactly Camp Half-Blood's poster boy for a hero."Jason smirked. "Of course not. That would be you.""What are you talking about?" Percy asked.
Wait, is he serious?
"Dude, haven't you ever stepped inside the Aphrodite Cabin. There's literally a poster of you with the word 'Hero' on it. Also, a cardboard cutout," Jason explained, not exaggerating in the slightest."…I don't know if I should be flattered or horrified," Percy said, a conflicted look on his face."Well, imagine what some of them do to that cardboard cutout," Jason suggested, just to tip the balance.Percy's cringed, from conflict to revulsion. "Okay, horrified. Definitely horrified. Thanks, Jason! Thank you for that oh so lovely image!"Jason couldn't help but laugh. "What are friends for?""Some friend…" Percy grumbled as the two of them approached a large cabin. It appeared similar in design to a cottage, black and gold decorations adorning the exterior. The door was an arch framed by two trees growing golden apples.
Yeah, this is definitely Discordia's…Eris' Cabin.
"Well, here goes nothing," Percy said, walking up to the doors, only to pause before opening them. "Do you hear that?"Jason listened and heard a voice say, "Aaron, Harley, for the last time, we're not sending mail missiles!"That's Strife. Also…mail missiles?"But why nooot?" Harley whined."One, it'd be ridiculously expensive, and while I'm happy to help out with any costs, this would put a serious dent in my wallet. Second, it'd be fucking dangerous," Strife answered."So? You do stupid and dangerous things all the time," Aaron, Strife's youngest brother, pointed out."While you make a fair point," Strife agreed, "long range missiles are complex things, and adding a safety feature of some sort would complicate things even further. Also, if someone saw a fucking missile heading towards them, they'll think we're starting a war. We barely avoided war with both Camp Jupiter and the Amazons, and I don't want to explain why we're sending missiles.""Hylla's got you pretty whipped, huh?" Harley asked."Who told you that?!" Strife demanded to know. "Which one of them was it: Arthur or Simon?""Both," the two boys answered."Remind me to kick their asses later," Strife requested."Okay!" both replied.Percy rolled his eyes and opened the door. "Yo, Strife, I need a…" He stopped talking as Strife threw a knife, the blade embedding itself right next to Percy's head."Gods damn it, Jackson! I told you to fucking knock! Where are your fucking manners?!" Strife shouted, glaring with black irises ringed with gold."My manners?!" Percy shouted back, pulling the knife from the door. "Who answers with a knife?!"Strife opened his mouth, then seemingly bit back a harsh reply. "This is my cabin, and I've told you a thousand times to knock and give your name; otherwise, I'll throw something out of reflex. Is that so ff…" Strife took a deep breath, "…hard to understand?"Percy sighed. "In my defense, the twins don't throw knives at me when I visit.""Your complacency is excused, but let that be a warning," Strife replied before looking at Jason expectantly, as if waiting for something.
Oh, right.
Jason knocked on the door before saying, "Umm…Jason Grace. May I come in?"Strife nodded. "You may. How polite of you to knock.""So…any progress on the communication issue?" Jason asked."Mail missiles!" Harley enthusiastically answered.Percy shrugged. "I've heard worse ideas."
So have I…
Strife scowled at Percy. "Don't encourage them!""See? Percy likes it!" Aaron said."That's because Percy is a fucking idiot!" Strife snapped."I never said that I liked it…" Percy mumbled.Strife looked back to Jason. "Anyways, to answer your question, no, not yet. Anyways, what do you and your boyfriend want?"Percy blushed, and Jason felt his cheeks warming, though he rolled his eyes, saying, "We're not boyfriends.""I'm teasing," Strife replied, though it didn't sound sincere.Jason looked at Percy, who sighed before saying, "I need a favor, and it's important."Strife perked up. "What's up?""I…I need you to get Annabeth. I want to end things."Strife let out a deep sigh and nodded. "I had a feeling this day would come. Just so you guys know, there's nothing wrong with your feelings for each other.""Oh, my gods…" Jason grumbled."I'll make sure that Annabeth doesn't feel any pain. Or, did you want me to strand her on an island?" Strife continued.Percy looked stunned. "What the…Dude! What the hell?! Just find her and bring her here, so I can break up with her!""Ohhhh," Strife replied. "When you said, 'Get her,' I thought you were putting a hit on her. That's quite the relief. I like Annabeth."Percy just shook his head. "Can you do it?"Strife nodded. "Yeah, I can get her, but you gotta give me a better reason to bring her here. I can't just walk up to her and say, 'Hi! I need to bring you to Camp Half-Blood because Percy wants to break up with you in person.' This family emergency of hers is pretty important.""I don't know if I can wait until…" Percy began before an idea seemed to pop into his head. "Tell her I was in a car accident!"Strife grinned. "Now that I can work with. I'll have to…embellish your condition a bit, but it'll convince her."Percy sighed. "Thank you. Seriously, man, thank you."Strife shrugged. "No problem. I'll be sending Amos back with Annabeth." He then looked at Harley and Aaron. "I expect you two to present Amos with a better solution than mail missiles when he gets here. Are we clear?"The two young campers saluted, shouting "Yes, sir!""Well, it's time I left," Strife said as he stood. He walked over and ruffled Aaron's hair before grabbing his coat. Then, he gave Percy and Jason a thumbs up before walking out the door.Jason sighed. "He doesn't actually believe that we're in a relationship, does he?"Percy shrugged. "Never can tell what that guy is thinking. Though, if I had to date a guy…""Don't even finish that sentence," Jason grumbled, walking out the door, with Percy close behind."Dude, it's a compliment! You're excellent boyfriend material!""And yet, I'm not the one who got Nico…" Jason mumbled in a dejected manner.Percy patted his shoulder. "Dude…Look, I know you'll always love Nico, but you'll…""Can we talk about something else?" Jason asked, cutting him off."Alright, what did you wanna talk about?" Percy asked.
What do I want to talk about?
"Strife has really settled down," Percy said after a moment of silence. "Before he married Hylla, and before Clarisse left, they would've thrown an epic party."Jason smirked. "Now that I would've liked to have seen.""Oh, yeah, I forgot, you Romans like parties," Percy noted."We invented them," Jason boasted."In case you forgot, I was there when we celebrated our victory over Gaea. Frankly? Not impressed," Percy said.Jason playfully shoved Percy. "Oh, screw you, dude."Percy shoved back. "In your dreams, bro. Also, the party sucked."Jason huffed. "You don't know parties is all." Percy then grinned his signature grin, and Jason knew he had an idea."Is that so? Well, then, my good bro, I challenge you to throw an epic party."But…I've never planned a party myself. That's usually the Bacchus kids' job. Still, I can't turn down a challenge."You're on!" Jason declared.Percy smirked. "I look forward to it…We should probably grab a change of clothes."Jason nodded. "Agreed."NicoAfter bickering with his boyfriend about what he should call him, the two had told the other campers that dinner would be starting soon. The only two left were Jason, who wasn't in his cabin, and Percy.
That probably means that Jason is in Percy's cabin.
"Well, we're here," Will said as they approached the door.Nico placed a hard on the handle, only to pause. "Do you…hear that?" Will raised an eyebrow, and they both leaned in closer to the door."Dude, hurry up!" Percy said in a desperate voice."I can't…You're making it hard," Jason replied. "Stop…moving your hips.""Ah, my underwear!" Percy exclaimed.Nico blushed profusely, and shared a look with Will. "Are they…?""I don't…think so," Will replied, sounding uncertain. He then shrugged. "Only one way to find out."Nico nodded and opened the door, bracing himself for what he might see. What greeted him was thankfully much more tame than he anticipated; however, it was still a shock. Percy was pushed against the wall with Jason's hand on the zipper of his pants. The two demigods turned their attention to their guests and quickly separated.
Was Jason's hand just on Percy's zipper?!
"It isn't what you think!" Percy exclaimed.Will raised an eyebrow "Then what exactly is it? Because, I gotta be honest, it seemed like Jason was trying to you out of your pants."Jason's cheeks were red, and he sighed, saying, "The opposite actually. Percy's zipper got stuck…and he asked me for help."Now that I think about it, that makes way more sense… That's a relief.Nico then berated himself, as something down below had stirred at what he had anticipated."Did…did you guys need something?" Percy asked, clearly trying to move the subject along."We were just coming to tell you guys to get ready for dinner," Will replied."Oh, we're also going to be starting a…buddy system," Nico added rather awkwardly. "Gods, that sounds so stupid.""Oh, okay," Percy replied, then looked at Jason. "Hey, Jason, wanna be my buddy? Oh, Will! Write Jason a doctor's note so he can sit next to me.""Already on it," Will said, writing in a small notebook, before tearing out the page and handing it to Jason."'Extreme anxiety if not in close proximity to a…son of Poseidon'?" Jason read aloud. "Will!""What? I have to give a diagnosis," Will explained. "We'll see you two at dinner."Jason sighed. "Yeah…See you later.""See ya!" Percy added as Nico and Will left."Oh, my gods, that was awkward," Nico said, feeling as if he had been holding his breath.Will chuckled. "Hey, it could've been worse. They could've been actually doing something."Nico felt a certain something stir again, and he blushed. "Please, don't talk about it."Will playfully poked Nico in the side. "Relax, Nico. Anyone would've thought it, given what they were saying. In fact, I know quite a few people who'd be happy if it did."Nico gave his boyfriend a quizzical look. "What do you mean?""Rumor is that Jason and Percy are secretly in a relationship, and Annabeth is Percy's cover," Will replied. "People have even placed bets on it."Nico scoffed at the absurdity. "That's ridiculous. They're reading way too much into what's merely a close friendship. Besides, Percy is obviously in love with Annabeth."
I'm even happy for them.
"Yeah…" Will said half-heartedly, and Nico couldn't help but wonder if his boyfriend knew something he didn't.
Well, if it was important, he'd tell me.
"Come on, let's get something to eat," Will said with more enthusiasm.Nico smiled. "Yes. Let's."PercyThe son of Poseidon sat at his table, feeling rather happy that he now had company. Jason, for his part, seemed amused."Isn't this great?" Percy asked. "I haven't had someone sit at my table since Tyson."Jason chuckled. "Yeah, I guess it is pretty nice to eat with company." Percy nodded, picking up a slice of pizza and taking a bite. "Pizza again?""Yeah. Why? What's wrong with pizza?" Percy asked."Nothing, it's just…there are healthier choices," Jason pointed out.
Ugh, sounds like something my mom would say.
Percy merely shrugged. "Got a high metabolism. I need the calories.""Yeah, you're probably around eight percent body fat despite how much you eat," Jason agreed."You're pretty ripped yourself," Percy pointed out, then gestured to Jason's meal. "So…why are you eating a salad?""Because it's healthy, and I enjoy it," Jason replied. "Also, I'm not ripped. Percy."Percy frowned softly. "Then how would you describe yourself?"Jason merely shrugged. "I don't know. Muscular, I guess."Percy rolled his eyes. "Then let me ask you some questions. Do you have a six pack?""Uhh…yeah?" Jason answered."Are your muscles clearly defined?""Yeah.""Are you bulky?""I wouldn't consider myself bulky.Percy grinned. "Then you, my good bro, qualify as ripped. Or, sculpted. Or, chiseled. Or, if you wanna be boring, athletic. Take your pick."Jason laughed. "Wow, that's a lot of comments about my muscles.""You've got a great body, dude," Percy stated. "You should really show it off more."
Seriously, Jason is stunning, though if I'm being honest, that'd would've caused major problems for me a month ago. Ugh, that was sooo embarrassing. One stupid dream, for once not about impending doom, and I couldn't even be around the guy without…
"Percy, I'm not going to go around shirtless," Jason said, making Percy mentally facepalm and cutting off his train of thought.
Oh, my gods…
"Dude, I wasn't talking about going shirtless, I was talking about wearing different clothes," Percy said, causing Jason to frown and look at what he was wearing."What's wrong with what I'm wearing?""Simple. It's too loose," Percy answered."But…they're comfortable," Jason replied."Look at what I'm wearing. Do I look uncomfortable?" Percy asked, sitting up straight to give Jason a better view.The blonde smirked, commenting, "Honestly, I thought you were just showing off.""I'm not that much of show off," Percy said. "But, you're not entirely wrong.""Still, who would I be showing off for?" Jason inquired. "I really don't want the Aphrodite kids chasing after me."
Yeah, most people wouldn't want that. A few might, but it's a hassle for most.
"You're doing it for you," Percy explained. "When you look good, you feel good."Jason looked surprised, asking, "Really?"Percy nodded. "Of course. Took me awhile to realize it myself, honestly. I even ended drinking a potion that was supposed to make me look better but ended up turning me into a guinea pig…" He shuddered. "Not a fun experience. Point is, I took a look at myself after that ordeal and decided that I didn't need something like a magic potion. Since then, I've worn things that I thought complimented my looks. At least, when the end of the world wasn't a concern.""Wow…Think you could help me get the right clothes?" Jason requested."Sure," Percy replied. "Let's head to your place after dinner and see what we're working with."Jason smiled. "Thanks, Percy.""No problem, Sparky," Percy chirped before finishing a slice of pizza.
Time to focus on other things.
"So, what's the deal with the missing campers? Are we sure that they're just missing and not…" Percy didn't want to finish.Jason shook his head. "No, Nico hasn't sensed anything, so they're alive at the very least." Percy breathed a sigh of relief. "Problem is that we don't know the circumstances of their disappearances, whether or not they're injured, or anything else.""Yeah, that's troubling. I had hoped we would get a break after Gaea…Should've known that it wouldn't be that easy," Percy mumbled."You can walk away, you know," Jason said, much to Percy's surprise. "No one would blame you. If anyone's earned a break, it's you."Percy clenched his fists. "No! I would never do that! This is my home! If there's a problem I can help with, then I will!"Jason sighed. "I figured you'd say that. I figured I'd tell you since Nico asked."Again, Percy was surprised. "Nico said…what?""Nico didn't want you to get involved. I think that he's still protective of you on some level, so he wanted you to take a break," Jason explained.
Is that all it is?
Percy frowned. "That's not okay.""What's not okay?" Jason asked."Nico…asking you to do that," Percy answered as he stood. "I'm going to talk to him.""Percy? Percy, just wait a second! Percy!" Jason called after him. Percy ignored him, going to the Apollo table, grabbing the attention of said god."Oh, hey, Percy," Apollo greeted him. "I thought you went ho-…""Apollo? Shut up!" Percy interrupted. "I'm not here for you!" The god seemed so shocked by the demigod that he appeared lost for words.Will frowned. "Percy, what's wrong?""I need to talk to your boyfriend," Percy replied.Nico seemed surprised, asking, "What is it?""You don't want me here."Nico blinked. "I'm sorry?""You don't want me here!" Percy repeated more loudly.Nico sighed. "Percy…you've done enough. You don't have to worry about everyone anymore. We can take care of ourselves. You should for us on getting into college and Annabeth."Percy rolled his eyes. "Nico, you're doing that thing you always do: Deciding what's best for without even talking to me about it! You're pushing me away! Why?!""Because you don't have to do this!" Nico said, raising his voice. "If you keep this up, you'll do something that winds up getting you hurt! You're not obligated to help anyone, least of all me, out of some sense of guilt!""This has nothing to do with guilt, Nico!"Nico seemed surprised, asking, "Wait…what?"Percy took a deep breath. "Have you thought that maybe, I don't know, I wanted to hang out because we're friends? Because that's what friends do? At least…I thought we were.""We are friends, Percy, but you're better off spending time being happy with Annabeth," Nico replied.Percy frowned. "Who said I'm happy?!" Those words drew everyone's attention. All the campers stopped their conversations to gawk at the son of Poseidon, who promptly left the dining pavilion. Jason quickly followed.
Gods, I'm such an idiot! Why did I have to yell that?! Fuck my life…
"Percy! Bro, wait up!" he called after him. Percy didn't slow down.Percy eventually came to a stop upon reaching the lake, much to Jason's relief, who had half expected him to dive in. Jason carefully approached Percy."Percy?" he asked."This is where Annabeth and I shared a kiss, after the war with the Titans…" Percy said, though in a distant tone."Percy?" Jason asked again, stepping next to his friend."Coming here used to cheer me up, recalling that moment…" Percy sighed. "Gods, I'm stupid."Jason gave him a concerned look. "No, you aren't, Percy. You shouldn't say that.""I just told everyone that I'm not happy with Annabeth, and Strife is bringing her here!" Percy replied. "She's going to hear it from someone else before she hears it from me! What else would you call it other than stupid?!"Jason looked at the water. "I'd call it someone who is unhappy with his relationship and just wants others to understand that, instead of projecting their preconceived notions on him."Percy buried his face in his hands. "What am I going to do?"Jason put a hand on his shoulder. "You have friends here, Percy. We know when something is yours and yours alone to tell. We won't let anyone tell Annabeth even if we have to make them swear on the Styx."Percy finally looked at Jason. "Are you sure?"Jason gave him a reassuring smile, saying, "Of course."Percy let out a sigh. "Thanks…""Anytime," Jason replied.Feeling somewhat relieved, Percy smiled and clapped his hands together. "So, wanna head back to your place? Check out your clothes?"Jason chuckled and shrugged. "Sure, why not.""Great! By the way, do you have a large sheet or blanket?" Percy asked.Jason gave him a confused look. "I think so…Why?""Because of your dad's statue. I swear, the eyes on that thing follow you," Percy answered with a shudder.Jason sighed. "They do…It's quite unnerving. For a second, I thought you were asking for the blanket, so we could both use it."This time, Percy gave Jason the confused look. "What on Olympus would we use a blanket for?""That's why I was confused…" Jason replied.Percy thought about it for a moment before saying, "I mean…I suppose we could use it as a sail."Jason looked doubtful. "Are you serious?"Percy smiled. "What? We could totally use one as a sail.""I guess, but we don't have a boat," Jason pointed out."We could build one. Whataya say, bro? You and me, sailing the seas," Percy replied.Jason blinked. "Are you serious?"Percy laughed. "Well, not right now, but someday? Maybe."Jason also laughed. "Is that, like, your dream or something?"Percy shrugged nonchalantly. "Honestly, I just thought it'd be fun.""Well…I suppose it does sound sort of fun," Jason agreed."Again, just a suggestion," Percy replied. "Now, let's see what we're working with."NicoThe son of Hades entered the infirmary with a sigh. He found his boyfriend checking on their newest arrival."I just finished making everyone that heard swear on the River Styx not tell Annabeth anything. And, since basically everyone heard…" Nico said, trailing off.Will nodded. "That's good. One less thing to worry about.Nico sat down. "Yeah…I never would've thought that Percy wasn't happy."
It just seems so…unnatural.
"It was quite the shock," Will agreed."Were there any signs?" Nico asked. "Because…I certainly didn't see them."Will looked thoughtful for a moment. "Well, I thought there were, but I wasn't really certain."Nico gave him a surprised look. "Really? What was it?""Well…" Will started, then paused. "He…he used to always talk about how great Annabeth was. At some point, he just…stopped. Also, if you were watching, he'd frown when Annabeth called him Seaweed Brain but wasn't looking.""You know…I think I have noticed that," Nico said, giving it some thought. "Still, couldn't it have just been moving past the honeymoon phase?"Will shook his head. "Even if that was the case, you wouldn't become annoyed with the person you love, which is why I'm never annoyed with you."Nico smirked. "Funny, I'm always annoyed with you."Will walked up to him. "Oh, you're gonna pay for that one?""Oh, yeah? What are you going to do?" Nico asked, literally rising to the challenge. Will kissed him gently on the lips.
Nice way to pay.
Nico kissed back. Will pulled back, and smiled."That all you got?" Nico teased, only for Will to kiss him again. This time, Nico felt Will's tongue on his lips, so he parted them, greeting Will's with his own. Will moaned softly into the kiss, and Nico wrapped his arms around his boyfriend.
Fuck, I'm getting turned on. Wouldn't be the first time we've done something in the infirmary.
"Where am I?" a voice asked, startling the two and causing them to quickly separate. They looked over to find their patient awake.Will quickly made his way to him, asking, "Hey, are you alright?"
He's so caring. Anyways, what was this guy's name again? I think Percy said it was Sam.
"I feel like I got trampled by a Behemoth," Sam answered sarcastically. "But, other than that? Great.""Well, at least your sarcasm didn't die," Nico replied in equal measure.Will gave him a stern look. "Nico, remember: Social skills." Nico just sighed."I'm guessing that this is the infirmary?" Sam…well, guessed.Will smiled. "That is correct.""How long have I been out?" Sam asked next."Not too long. A few hours," Will replied.Sam frowned. "Really? Feel longer…""What do you remember?" Will asked.Sam seemed to mull over the question. "Umm…I think I was telling Percy something. After that? Nothing."Will nodded. "Okay, you remember Percy, so that's good."
Is it, though?
"How exactly do you know Percy? Are you two classmates?" Nico inquired.Sam shook his head. "No. It's…complicated."Nico frowned, not liking the answer. "Complicated?""Oh, speaking of, could you get Percy?" Will asked, turning his attention to Nico. Nico looked, at Sam again, but he decided to follow Will's request. As he exited the infirmary, he encountered Kayla and Austin."Any chance you two could tell me where Percy is?" Nico asked the two. They shared an uneasy look between them which bothered Nico."I think I saw Percy and Jason headed toward Zeus's cabin," Austin answered.Nico nodded. "Thank you." He then promptly headed in that direction.
I wonder, how does Sam know Percy? Is he telling the truth, or is he here for nefarious purposes? There are a lot of people who hold a grudge against Percy for various reasons. Also, how would he be so injured in the first place?
Soon, he reached Cabin One, and as he approached the door, he heard voices."Percy, I'm telling you, it won't fit! It's too tight!" Jason exclaimed."Dude, just relax. You're too tense," Percy replied. "Just loosen up, would you?""I'm tense because it won't fit!"Nico couldn't help but blush.
Do they not hear themselves? I mean, it sounds like Percy is trying to fuck Jason. Would Jason bottom to begin with?
An image appeared in the demigod's head, and he felt his pants get a bit tighter.
No, bad Nico!
He shook his head and opened the door, finding Percy trying to get a shirt on Jason. The two then turned their attention towards Nico.Percy stepped away from Jason, saying, "Oh…hey, Nico…We were just trying to get a shirt on."Jason tossed the shirt aside. "Told you that it doesn't fit.""Then why do you even have it?!" Percy asked."I didn't pick it out! Piper got it for me way back! She must've gotten the wrong size!" Jason explained.Percy gave him an incredulous look. "You didn't try it out?!"Jason shook his head. "Have you dated a daughter of Aphrodite? Do you know how many clothes she got me? I didn't have time. She may have been pretty tame compared to her sibling, but it was still a lot of clothes." Nico took a moment to admire Jason's build before he grabbed another shirt and quickly put it on. "What's up, Nico?""Sam is awake," Nico replied, which immediately grabbed Percy's attention."He is? When did he wake up?"Nico shrugged. "Like…five minutes ago?" Percy immediately rushed past Nico and out the cabin. "And…he's gone.""We should probably go after him," Jason suggested as he walked over to Nico."Yeah," Nico agreed, and the two left."So…crazy day, huh?" Jason asked.Nico sighed. "Percy said he wasn't happy. Yeah, it's been quite the day."Jason nodded. "He tends to keep things bottled up.""I hope he stops doing that. Bottling things up isn't the best solution, and I would know.""People have of lot of expectations of him, and he tries too hard to meet them. In this case, it was a happily ever after. Hard to to when you're not happy. Though his mood seems to have improved a bit.""That's good."Jason then gave Nico an awkward look. "Sorry about earlier. Percy's trying to find better clothes for me."Nico giggled. "Don't sweat it."
Though they need to seriously stop doing that.
Soon, the two reached the infirmary, and Jason opened the door, saying, "After you."Nico smiled as he stepped through. "Why, thank you, good sir."Jason smiled back. "Who said chivalry is dead?""I think my dad said it died about ten years ago," Nico quipped, making Jason laugh. Nico then led Jason to Sam, who was still lying in his cot. Will was performing a check up on him."Is this really necessary?" Sam asked."Absolutely," Will replied as he performed his routine. After a couple minutes, he nodded. "Well, everything looks good. That's actually pretty surprising.""Does that mean I leave?" Sam asked next."Nope," Will answered."Why not?" Sam inquired as he tried to sit up, only to wince and lie back down."Does that answer your question?" Will asked. "Also, don't do that again.""Well, that's bloody fantastic…" Sam grumbled.
I'm having trouble placing his accent.
Percy frowned. "What's wrong? I thought you said that he's good."Will shook his head. "His vitals are good, but other than that, he's a total wreck." Sam just sighed."Well, can you say when he'll be able to leave?" Percy asked.Will shrugged. "Honestly, it's a bit hard to say. I mean, I didn't think he'd wake up today. I thought he would've been out a bit longer.""So, he has to stay here until further notice?" Percy asked next.Will nodded. "Correct."Nico focused on Sam. "But, since he is up, how about a game of Twenty Questions?"Sam gave Nico a confused look. "Excuse me?""I want to know who you are; why you're here; and how you know Percy?" Nico asked.Sam sighed. "My name is Sam, though I'm sure you already knew that. As for why I'm here…I don't remember. As for how I know Percy…A dream. I think?…Honestly, I'm not entirely sure.""Can you tell us where you're from?" Percy asked. "I'm having a hard time recognizing your accent.""Umm…no, I can't," Sam replied.Nico frowned. "Can't or won't?""Can't," Sam answered."Well, what can you tell us that you remember?" Percy asked next."Other than my name, I don't think I can tell you anything," Sam replied. "I just woke up and remembered I was supposed to come here for some reason."
I'm not sure he's being honest.
"A likely story," Nico commented doubtfully."Which probably makes it true," Jason added."That doesn't mean it is true," Nico pointed out.Jason looked at Nico. "C'mon, Nico. We should give him the benefit of the doubt."Nico raised an eyebrow. "Why?""Because I did the same for you," Jason replied.
Damn it, he's right…
Nico sighed. "Okay, fair enough.""Sam's situation could be similar to Jason's and mine," Percy pointed out.Will nodded in agreement. "That's certainly possible."Nico frowned as he thought about the implication. "Does that mean there's a third camp? I think that's a bit of a stretch."Jason shook his head. "No, there probably isn't a third camp…At least, I don't think there is.""I agree," Will added. "It's possible that he's blocking out the memory due to trauma, though I have to admit that's pretty rare. We'll have to see if Chiron might be able to help, but that'll have to wait until tomorrow."Percy frowned. "Why not now?"Will nodded over to Sam, who had fallen asleep at some point during the conversation. "That's why.""Aww, poor guy," Percy said, giving Sam a concerned look."He's lucky to have come across you when he did," Will commented. "Anyways, it's getting late. We'll talk more tomorrow."Percy nodded. "Yeah…Goodnight, guys.""See you in the morning," Jason added."Goodnight," Will and Nico said as the two left.Nico looked at Sam once more. "Think he's on our side?"Will shrugged. "Too early to tell, but he helped Percy and hasn't given us any reason to distrust him. Either way, I'm going to help him recover."
That's my caring boyfriend.
Will then looked at Nico with a smirk as he stepped closer, saying, "So, shall we go to your place and pick up where we left off before Sam woke up?" as he placed his hands on Nico's waist.Nico smirked back. "Making out?""Well…" Will reached towards the front of Nico's pants and pulled his zipper down. "I was actually hoping for a bit more."Nico gulped. "Let's go."