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[color=bd1664][b]#bd1664[/b][/color] [color=2e2c2c]....[/color]|[color=2e2c2c].....[/color] [url=https://imgur.com/AO4jQCK][color=9b9b9b][b]outfit[/b][/color][/url] [color=2e2c2c].....[/color]|[color=2e2c2c].....[/color] [color=9b9b9b][b]main office[/b][/color]
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[indent][indent][indent][indent][justify][color=808080]A flash of lightning illuminated the sky for a brief second, followed by a crash of thunder that shook the whole camp. The rain was oppressive. The ground felt like a frigid pool of mud. It clung to her skin and snaked through her hair. No matter how hard she tried, Andy couldn’t move. She could barely keep her eyes open, rain blinding her as it fell onto her face. The mud felt like it was turning to concrete, weighing her down, rigid and unyielding.

Muscles tensed as she used every ounce of strength she had to lift her head from the ground. With a grunt, through clenched teeth, she barely managed to wedge her elbows under her and prop herself up. A deep, piercing heat radiated from her left forearm. The mangled gashes seethed in protest at the pressure, blood pooling and mixing with the rain and mud.

Lightning, like a flashbang, blinded Andy. Thunder deafened her. Then like a wave, she was slammed back into the ground, the wind knocked out of her.

[i]No… Wait…[/i]

She couldn’t breathe. Heavy weight pressed down on her chest and squeezed at her throat. Her hands shot to her neck, gripping and clawing at whatever constricted her. She gasped for air, but only got rain. Legs kicked and thrashed, but nothing could break its hold.

Another flash of lightning revealed her own face grinning menacingly back down at Andy as it squeezed tighter. She tried to scream but there was no sound, just gasps and sputtering water. A strong gust of air stole the doppelgänger's attention. It looked up just in time to see a giant taloned paw come crashing down on them.

Andy bolted upright in her bed with a scream. Her hand clutched at her heaving chest, panting heavily. [color=bd1664]"Fuck,"[/color] she cursed under her breath.

Once she managed to catch her breath and calm down, she let out a deep sigh. Her gaze fell to her left arm which rested in her lap. Her wounds did not heal pretty. There were deep gashes where the skin was thin and stretched. She could see the muscle shifting beneath her taut skin as she opened and closed her fist. Her fingertips slowly ran over the trophy left behind by the Nemean lion’s claws, rising and falling with every gash.

She had lost count how many night’s sleep she had lost from nightmares. It used to be the Underworld and memories of her torment that plagued her dreams. But ever since Pandora’s box, it’s all that’s been on her mind. One stupid little box caused more damage, destruction, and death than anything else they had encountered at camp… including the war.

Where was Ajax? [i]Where were the Gods?[/i]

Zeus was too busy coddling his precious boy and murderous daughter to give two shits about what happened to the rest of them. Ajax was [i]supposed[/i] to be here leading them, not that she can recall him ever doing that. But that was his job, [i]not[/i] protecting his psychotic sister at every turn. Gods, what did she ever see in him?

…It didn’t matter. He made his choice. He was gone.

And Nick? She didn’t know him well, and he wasn’t at camp for long, but he deserved better. Everyone who died did. She was never able to figure out what exactly happened, but what did it matter? It was the box. It all was because of the box.

Andy exhaled and ran her hands over her face. She finally looked over at her clock, 7:57 a.m. Well, at least she made it until the morning before having a crippling nightmare. [i]Silvering linings.[/i] She was still up a bit early for her to start her daily routine. She had started doing daily morning announcements after the whole box incident. There was never really anything to share. She just wanted everyone to know they weren’t alone, especially while they were all healing and bedridden… and no one told her to stop.

She wasn’t sure why she stepped up to lead camp… if you can call it that. Maybe it was because no one else did? Or maybe because camp was her home and she couldn’t stand by and watch it crumble apart. Andy spent every morning exhausting every ounce of magic she had to rebuild and fortify. Then every afternoon checking in on the injured and bringing them food. It was a lot of work, but after 3 months everything was rebuilt, bigger and better and stronger. Not only was everything back to the way it was before the box, she also built a 15 foot perimeter wall around camp with one gate in or out, aside from the lake. She also added emergency buttons in every building and cabin, along with some free standing ones like you would see at a college, that would trigger a camp wide alarm. It was excessive, she knew that, but extra safety protocols might save lives in the future. She hoped.

It was Andy’s first day free since the box, which also just happened to be New Year’s Eve. So rather than relaxing, she gave herself another list of tasks to keep herself busy. Although this time, at least, it was for a [i]much[/i] needed celebration. Nothing depressing. She promised herself that today was going to be about fun and ringing in the new year. Nothing else.

She leaned over and grabbed a folded piece of paper from her nightstand. She opened it and started double checking, for like the tenth time, that she didn’t forget anything.
[quote][h3][sub]New Year’s Eve to do list[/sub][/h3]
[list][*] Morning announcements - remind everyone about the [s]party[/s]... [s]festivities[/s]... Celebration?
[*] Remember to eat, you’re too skinny
[*] Double check menu
[list][*] Hot chocolate
[*] Smores
[*] Finger foods… [i]warm[/i]
[*] Champagne
[*] Booze??[/list]
[*] Prep the activities field
[list][*] Ice skating rink
[*] Big bonfire, with chairs, log benches and blankets
[*] Sledding/tubing hill - maybe build off of the arena and have it come down between the practice range and stables?
[list][*] Make sure you can reach the top from the arena or add stairs[/list]
[*] Small food pavilion with tables - close to main hall in case we need more food
[*] Fireworks - talk to Duke[/list]
[*] For the love of the Gods, shower… you smell[/list][/quote]
Andy’s brows furrowed as she tilted her head to the side to smell under her arm. [color=bd1664]"[i]Ugh[/i]... Right. Shower."[/color]

She put the list back on her nightstand and threw her blanket off. [color=bd1664]"Holy shit,"[/color] she hissed when the cold air hit her bare legs. It wasn’t until the moment that she actually looked out her windows and noticed that there was at least 6 inches of snow, with more still falling. Normally she liked her little glass cabin, but at moments like that Andy could have gone for some insulation. Not wanting to waste more time than necessary in the cold, she quickly gathered some fresh clothes and went into the bathroom, desperate for a warm shower.

Andy stayed in the shower until the hot water ran out and she had no choice but to get out. As much as she hated it, she spent the proper amount of timing blowing dry her hair. The last thing she needed was getting sick. Then Mason and Trinity would be [i]extra[/i] pissed at her for working herself to death.

Once everything was properly dried, she wasted no time getting dressed, trying to keep as much warmth in as possible. She grabbed her hat and gloves, stepped into her boots that she left drying by the door, and headed out into the snow. Andy made it a whole 10 feet before she was already turning back to grab the note she forgot on the nightstand. She shook her head in frustration as she shoved the paper in her pocket, then left… [i]again.[/i]

Camp had never been so quiet as it was in the morning with the snow falling. It was peaceful, serene. Andy could almost forget the terrible things that had happened here over the years. Her pace slowed as she neared the path that led to Mason’s cabin. Part of her wanted to go check on him, maybe see if he wanted to join her. But there was still a small part of her hurt and mad at him for what he said the night of the box. He apologized, he did. And Andy forgave him. But it’s not that easy for her to get over things… Especially not that. Maybe she still needed more time. She shoved her hands in her pockets and continued down the main trail toward the center of camp.

She hadn’t seen any footprints in the snow on the way to the main office, nothing aside from the occasional animal tracks. It wasn’t uncommon for her to be the first person awake and out of bed. Her nightmares rarely let her sleep in, but at least she got to enjoy some of the silence alone before the day got started.

As Andy approached the main office, her gaze drifted to a piece of paper tacked to the door frame. Her brows furrowed as she gently tugged it free.

[quote=Ω]On the eve of the new year, several demigods are expected to arrive at camp. Make the necessary preparations for their arrival, as well as a new leader, and rigorous training regimen.[/quote]
Stunned, Andy stood there, frozen, paper clenched tight in her grasp. For 3 months the Gods had been silent, not a word or sign... Nothing. Not even for their fallen children. A new leader?! She had been breaking her back, working, from sun up to sun down for the camp. Did that mean nothing? Of course it did. She broke the heart of Zeus’s starchild, pissed off and was nearly killed by the other one. Not to mention how much Hades hated her as well. She had a running tally of Gods that disliked her. Why in the hell did she think that she’d be allowed to lead?

[i]It’s fine.[/i] She clenched her jaw, entering the office and slamming the door behind her. [i]She didn’t want to lead anyway.[/i] Andy tossed the note in the trash, then sat down in front of the P.A. system. [i]Now it’s someone else’s headache.[/i] She scooted the chair in and cleared her throat. [color=bd1664]"Good morning, campers. It is currently 9 a.m., on December 31st, New Year’s Eve."[/color] She tried her best to sound like her normal semi-chipper self, but the annoyance in her voice was hard to hide. [color=bd1664]"It’s currently 15 degrees fahrenheit, -9.4 degrees celsius, and snowing. So be sure to wear your boots and winter coats when you leave your cabins today."[/color]

Andy paused for a moment. Her announcements were usually brief and she would have signed off there, but she knew she had to share the note… Even if it stirred up confusion. [color=bd1664]"There was a note left at the main office for me to find… from the Gods. Exciting news, new demigods are expected to join us today."[/color] She sighed, tapping her fingers softly on the table. [color=bd1664]"The note also mentioned a new leader and, quote, a [i]rigorous[/i] training regimen. So, today will be the last day of these daily announcements… at least from me."[/color]

She nearly ended the announcements there but forgot the most exciting part. Fuck the Gods. They don’t get to take that from her, at least. [color=bd1664]"And last, but not least, tonight at sundown on the Activities Field we will be having a New Year’s Eve celebration. So I’ll be seeing you, and the new campers there."[/color][/color][/justify][/indent][/indent][/indent][/indent]

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[color=86a8ad][b]#86a8ad[/b][/color] [color=2e2c2c]....[/color]|[color=2e2c2c].....[/color] [url=https://imgur.com/ppFTS1k][color=9b9b9b][b]outfit[/b][/color][/url] [color=2e2c2c].....[/color]|[color=2e2c2c].....[/color] [color=9b9b9b][b]camp entrance > beach[/b][/color] [color=2e2c2c].......................................[/color] [color=0054a6][b]#0054a6[/b][/color] [color=2e2c2c]....[/color]|[color=2e2c2c].....[/color] [url=https://imgur.com/3DbMXVq][color=9b9b9b][b]outfit[/b][/color][/url] [color=2e2c2c].....[/color]|[color=2e2c2c].....[/color] [color=9b9b9b][b]camp entrance > beach[/b][/color]
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[indent][indent][indent][indent][justify][color=808080]River knew that camp was secluded. He did, however, underestimate how secluded it actually was. He wasn’t keeping track, but he and Ocean had trekked at least 3 miles into the woods. Somewhere around the first mile, he took his sister’s bag for her. She couldn’t mind her step and deal with her bag, all while the snow was only getting deeper.

Ocean trudged behind her brother through the snow, silently listening to his complaints. It was times like this, but she was grateful for being a demigod—not only that, but a daughter of Poseidon. The snow was cold against her shoes and pants, but she was able to keep dry by using her hydrokinesis. [color=0054a6]"I can carry my bag now,"[/color] She spoke up halfway through the trek. Her brother had taken it from her earlier despite her protests and while she was grateful for the help, it’s not like it’s heavy. River ignored her and Ocean rolled her eyes, readjusting the trident that sat holstered on her back. While the trident [i]was[/i] heavy, the training from her father proved useful in giving her the strength to carry it long distances. Not much longer into the hike, River started slowing down and Ocean came to stand beside him. A giant wall and gate loomed above them—Ocean frowned.

They had to have been hiking for at least an hour by the time they saw the gates to camp. He didn’t know what he expected, but the giant walls and iron gate looked more like a military school than a summer camp for demigods… Even if it was winter. A prison to keep demigods in and strangers out.

[color=86a8ad]"Well this looks inviting,"[/color] he grumbled, setting down their bags.

[color=0054a6]"Can you blame them?"[/color] Ocean retorted.

[color=86a8ad]"Wait here,"[/color] he told her before heading toward the gate. Ocean crossed her arms and watched as River approached. He didn’t have the slightest clue how to get them inside. It wasn’t like their father gave them a gate code or a key. Maybe there was a doorbell? He had no clue.

On the gate was a small metal box, where you’d think a keypad would be, but there was just a small black square angled slightly upwards. Above it, etched into the box read [i]biometric scanner.[/i] River’s brows pulled together in confusion. His father never asked for their fingerprints. He doubted it’d work, but he placed his thumb on the small box anyway. [color=86a8ad]"There’s no way—"[/color]

[i]Click.[/i] With a cold, creaky groan, the gates began to open, swinging in toward the camp.

River stood there for a second in slight disbelief, before returning to Ocean and grabbing their bags. [color=86a8ad]"I guess they have our fingerprints."[/color] He nodded his head toward the entrance, signaling for Ocean to follow after him.

[color=0054a6]"That’s not creepy at all,"[/color] She muttered, concerned. How did a God acquire fingerprints in the first place? While it made Ocean paranoid, (who else has her fingerprints?) It was kinda funny to imagine a God dusting for fingerprints. They walked past the gate and into the camp. A building sat just a little further down and if she looked past that, she could see cabins and a big field in the distance. It looked sparse and Ocean wasn’t as impressed as she hoped she’d be.

It wasn’t long after Andy finished her announcements that a light blinked on the control panel in front of her, signaling the main gate was opened. She quickly got up, conjuring a blade in her hand, and hurried toward the entrance, nearly forgetting to close the office door behind her. She made it to the trail in time to see the gates closing behind a young man and woman, both similar in complexion and hair color, bags in hand.

She took a couple steps toward them. [color=bd1664]"Who sent you?"[/color] Andy asked, motioning her blade at them.

Ocean’s hand reached for her trident, but River immediately stepped in front of Ocean, using his body as a barricade between that woman’s blade and his sister. [color=86a8ad]"Our father, [i]Poseidon,[/i]"[/color], his snipped in response.

Ocean lowered her hand and stepped around River to make eye contact with the woman. [color=0054a6]"We were able to get in the front door. Wouldn’t you think that means we’re the ‘good guys’? There’s no need to fight."[/color] She gave her brother a pointed glance, her eyes telling him to behave.

For a fleeting moment, Andy’s face scrunched in disgust at the mention of the sea God’s name, before she replaced it with a welcoming smile. [color=bd1664]"Sorry about that."[/color] She dropped her hand wielding the blade and before it reached her side, the weapon disappeared. [color=bd1664]"I wasn’t aware more demigods were coming until like… 2 seconds ago."[/color] She closed the distance between them and offered her right hand to the intimidating man. [color=bd1664]"Welcome to Camp Athens."[/color]

Her brief shift in demeanor at the mention of Poseidon didn’t slip past River. He had half a mind to question her, but after the hike he just made, he had no desire to waste time on someone who harbored disdain for his father or threatened him. He looked down his nose at the woman, and her offered hand, with a sharp gaze and clenched jaw. But he didn’t take it.

Andy kept her hand held out awkwardly for a few more seconds. [color=bd1664]"Ok then,"[/color] she said, before sidestepping around him to address his far more approachable, presumably, sister. She offered her hand to the girl with a smile. [color=bd1664]"I’m Andromeda Bolton, daughter of Hecate. But you can call me Andy, most people do."[/color]

Ocean gave Andy a dimpled smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. Her father’s words to not trust anyone, and to keep them at a distance rang in her ears. She took Andy’s outstretched hand, shaking it with her own. [color=0054a6]"I’m Ocean Sullivan and this is my brother, River. And before you say anything, yes, our mother was [i]super[/i] original when it came to naming us,"[/color] she said, slightly sarcastic.

[color=bd1664]"Aren’t they always?"[/color] Andy jested with a soft chuckle. [color=bd1664]"I’m named after a galaxy… or a Princess, maybe both? I have no idea."[/color]

River, having had enough of the pleasantries and idle chit chat, waved his hand to shoo off any further conversation. [color=86a8ad]"Who’s in charge? I need to speak with them."[/color]

An annoyed laugh escaped Andy’s lips as she crossed her arms over her chest, shifting her attention back to the buzzkill brother. [color=bd1664]"I am."[/color]

He scoffed. [color=86a8ad]"[i]You?[/i] How can you lead [i]and[/i] guard the entrance? How do you manage to keep in order [i]in there[/i], when you’re all the way out here, with your [i]little blade,[/i]"[/color] he added with a sardonic tone, nodding his head to her now empty hand.

[color=bd1664]"No one [i]guards[/i] the entrance. I was just nearby—how unruly do you think camp is that [i]’order must be kept?’[/i]"[/color] She retorted with air quotes.

[color=86a8ad]"You went through all this effort to fortify camp, but don’t have a guard rotation? And enough that my father had to come down here to teach all of you a lesson."[/color] River mocked with a judgemental, condescending smirk.

[color=bd1664]"2 people fighting does not speak to the integrity of the camp as a whole."[/color] She shook her head, waving off the current debate to circle back to the original topic. [color=bd1664]"3 people died, and everyone was injured, some gravely… And the wall wasn’t finished until last week. Even [i]with[/i] everyone combat ready, there aren’t enough people here to keep a perimeter."[/color]

[color=86a8ad]"Camp safety is more important. A [i]true[/i] warrior would do what was necessary… even injured."[/color]

Andy laughed, but not in good humor. It was a frustrated and annoyed chuckle, like someone who was a second from blowing their top. [color=bd1664]"What’s the worst injury you’ve ever sustained?"[/color]

River straightened up slightly as he felt the conversation starting to turn against him. [color=86a8ad]"A broken wrist."[/color]

[color=bd1664]"Right. Right,"[/color] Andy tapped her chin and started pacing, making a show of her [i]pretending[/i] to connect the dots. [color=bd1664]"And how many consecutive monsters did you fight while you had this [i]broken arm?[/i]"[/color]

[color=86a8ad]"None."[/color]

[color=bd1664]"[i]Exactly,[/i]"[/color] Andy said as she took a step toward him. [color=bd1664]"So you can take that sanctimonious bullshit, and shove it up your ass."[/color]

Ocean watched back and forth, anxiety and irritation forming a pit in her stomach. She wanted to give Andy the benefit of the doubt, but River was getting more worked up. While there were some things he needed to learn, that didn’t give Andy the right to make him feel inferior, though Ocean didn’t think [i]anyone[/i] could make him feel inferior. Still, that was [i]her[/i] brother Andy was insulting, and she didn’t like it. [color=0054a6]"Not cool, Andy—he’s just trying to help. And River, we’re barely 100 feet in camp and you’re already fighting someone. It’s been a long day and we’ve been walking for hours. Let’s just get settled in and figure this out when we’re in a better mood."[/color] Ocean was usually pretty good at diffusing anything River related, though, when he got really worked up, there was rarely anything she could do. She just hoped Andy would drop the argument, because if she didn’t, they’d be here all night, and then [i]she’d[/i] get mad as well.

[color=bd1664]"Being condescending and talking to me like I’m an idiot is [i]not[/i] helpful,"[/color] Andy rebutted, gesturing to River.

Not one to accept being one-up-ed in a conversation, nor was he prone to shutting up after his sister tried to diffuse a situation, River quickly thought of a retort to try and regain control. [color=86a8ad]"If you don’t assign guard duty, don’t keep order, don’t organize training, what do you do? [i]The morning announcements?[/i] It’s no wonder my father sent me here. It’s very obvious you are lacking the proper leadership."[/color]

[color=bd1664]"Of course it’s you,"[/color] she whispered to herself, shaking her head. [color=bd1664]"We’ve been lacking a proper leader for much longer than me."[/color]

Andy was over that conversation and his attitude. She turned to face Ocean and conjured a map in her hand much like a magician would a card. [color=bd1664]"Here’s a camp map. All the available cabins are marked. It’s enchanted, so once you choose the one you want it’ll update. If you need anything, here’s my cabin,"[/color] she pointed to her own cabin in the Northeast of camp with an apologetic smile. [color=bd1664]"It was nice meeting you, Ocean."[/color]

Ocean blinked at the magical appearing map in her hands, giving Andy a nod. While she wasn’t super new to the whole Greek gods existing and everything, she wasn’t used to seeing other demigods and their powers. Magic seemed pretty cool.

As she turned away to leave, River called after her. [color=86a8ad]"You can have the rest of the day to clean out the leader’s cabin. I’m sure your friends will help you find a new one."[/color]

Ocean glared at her brother when he called out to Andy. Why couldn’t he just leave it alone until tomorrow? Gods, Poseidon was a bad influence on him.

Andy pivoted on her heels to turn and face him, continuing to walk backwards. [color=bd1664]"You might be daddy’s favorite, but leaders don’t get special treatment. You’ll have to settle for a regular cabin… just like everyone else."[/color] She gave an exaggerated shrug of fake sympathy. [color=bd1664]"Oh, Ocean, there’s a New Year’s party tonight on the activities field. You should come."[/color] Her gaze drifted over to River. [color=bd1664]"Unfortunately, it’s an open invitation. So, I guess you’re invited too. But maybe leave the party pooper attitude at home."[/color]

[color=86a8ad]"A party? We should be training… Not partying. As the new leader—"[/color]

[color=bd1664]"Not today you’re not,"[/color] she interrupted. Andy then spun back around and gave them both a wave before disappearing into camp.

It wasn’t often that someone went toe to toe with River. He stood there with a clenched jaw and flared nostrils, frustrated. He should have known better than to expect everyone to fall in line without any resistance. His father warned him about how unruly they all were, but he had hoped to avoid having to crack down so hard the second he got there.

Ocean looked up at River and frowned at his tense frame. She sighed with an irritated shake of her head. [color=0054a6]"You’re both ridiculous. It’s a good thing dad has us leading [i]together[/i]. You start the fires and I put them out."[/color] she said that, but she’s been known for starting many of her own fires as well. [color=0054a6]"I don’t think there’s anything wrong with a party. It seems to be planned already so why cancel it?"[/color] Ocean watched the field and the few specks of people that started to wander about. A cold wind blew past and she shivered. [color=0054a6]"Besides. This place looks like it could use some cheer. It’s so depressing."[/color] Ocean moved to stand in front of her brother and tried to grab her bag from him. [color=0054a6]"Tomorrow, River. Let them have fun tonight and then tomorrow you can be the drill sergeant you’ve been dreaming of becoming,"[/color] She teased, giving him a real smile.

River huffed through his nose as he handed over his sister’s bag. [color=86a8ad]"She’s going to be a problem, and you know it."[/color] He wasn’t a fan of people challenging or questioning his stand. After all, Poseidon sent [i]him[/i] to lead, not Andy. She was just a placeholder until someone new came. In the end, if he needed to put her in her place… He would. He sighed and glanced over at the map. [color=86a8ad]"I guess I’ll look for a cabin around here somewhere."[/color] He pointed at the map near the ocean, it only seemed fitting after all. [color=86a8ad]"We can look together if you want."[/color]

Ocean nodded, slightly nervous over the prospect of being somewhere new. She never had opportunities to fit in anywhere except within her family. She had a more difficult time controlling her powers than River did, so she tended to cause accidents wherever she went. It made it hard to make friends, so she never did. Ocean pinched her thigh as a way to ground herself—a habit she’d picked up since she got removed from public school for accidentally blowing up the pipes. She was 22 years old now, had almost perfect control over her powers, and after having a discussion with Poseidon, realized that she didn’t really need friends to be someone that can make him proud.

She brushed off the nerves and responded to River, pointing at another cabin that was on the beach. [color=0054a6]"I’d like that. I’m thinking more of a cabin on the beach so I can be close to the water. It’s weird not being on Hawai’i."[/color]

[color=86a8ad]"You know it’ll be colder closer to the water?"[/color] River asked more rhetorically than anything. They were both more accustomed to warmer climates. It wouldn’t be winter forever, but December was just the beginning. It’d be a couple months of this easily before they could enjoy shorts and surf.

They walked further down into camp and past a dozen cabins before coming across a cabin that was situated fairly close to the ocean. [color=0054a6]"It looks like a nice location. I’m sure you’ll love it."[/color]

River turned his attention toward said cabin. It wasn’t big or anything, which he wasn’t complaining about. He was surprised to see a small in-ground pool off the front porch. Even more surprising was that it appeared to be heated. At the right angle he could see a little bit of steam and snowflakes melted when they hit the water’s surface. He shrugged his shoulders, [color=86a8ad]"I wouldn’t say no to a heated pool."[/color] He dipped inside to drop off his bags and get a quick glimpse around. River wasn’t very knowledgeable about interior design but it looked nice. He would have loved to stay inside in the heat for the rest of the day, but there was no way he’d be able to pull that off.

River closed the door behind him and returned back to Ocean. They continued their walk searching for the right cabin for her. River’s was just on the edge of the beach and while there were a few other run-down looking cabins, there was one right in the center with perfect access to the water. [color=0054a6]"I think I’ll take this one,"[/color] Ocean stared out at the dark sea that crashed onto shore. She knew that the water would be freezing cold, but that usually didn’t bother her. She’d have a good view from her cabin, that’s all that mattered.

He took a moment to appreciate the view then headed up onto her porch and inside the cabin. No, Ocean didn’t ask River to check out her cabin for her but they knew about this place or the people there. And as their father warned them not to trust anyone, he wanted to make sure his sister’s new home was safe. He doubted someone would be lying in wait under the bed or in the closet, but that didn’t stop him from checking.

After a thorough once over, he came back out and flashed a brief thumbs-up. [color=86a8ad]"All clear."[/color] River hopped off the porch and returned back to Ocean. [color=86a8ad]"I’ll let you get settled. I’ll probably just wander around and get my bearings."[/color] He gave her a quick kiss on the top of the head then continued in the direction they were heading further down the beach.[/color][/justify][/indent][/indent][/indent][/indent]

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[indent][indent][indent][indent][justify][color=808080]Sloane was up long before the sun. Sleep often evaded her now that she was truly alone. It took several nights for both herself and Rocco to get used to the change. The poor pup spent most of those early nights crying by the door, waiting for Liam to come back… and nothing. She’d be lying if she said she didn’t also lay in bed, crying, waiting for the exact same thing. The note he left behind gave no closure or explanation.

[quote=Liam]I’m sorry. Please look after Rocco.[/quote]
She always thought of herself as a strong person, able to withstand her mother, the hell Sylas put her through, and even Lochlan. There was always a reason, explanation, or something for her to direct her anger at, but this only left her confused, grasping at air with no answers. Sloane didn’t know what she did or what happened. How could he leave without saying goodbye? How could he leave behind Rocco? Why? But all she had was a sad excuse for a note that she clung to every night like maybe that scrap of paper would bring him back. It didn’t.

Honestly, she didn’t know if she would have been able to handle it if it wasn’t for Rocco. The poor dog just wanted to love and be loved. He was just as confused as she was. They were both abandoned and used each other to try and find a new type of happiness. It wasn’t the same. Bittersweet, but together, Sloane and Rocco made their own little family. It didn’t stop the tears at night, but it gave her enough strength to burn the note and try to move on.

3 months was a long time. With all the injuries Sloane sustained, she didn’t have much of a choice but to sit alone with her thoughts and come to terms with everything that happened. She was lucky she remembered the box and was able to close it before anything worse happened. But that didn’t stop the survivor’s guilt. She blamed herself for every injury and every death because it was [i]her[/i] mother that sent her the box. [i]She[/i] left the box for her brother. And it was [i]her[/i] brother that opened it.

The combination of guilt and abandonment sent her spiraling into a deep depression. She thinks Andy might have noticed the signs, from her own struggles. She always lingered whenever she brought Sloane food. She never said anything, but she was always there if Sloane ever wanted to talk. It was a small gesture that made her feel a little less alone. And eventually, as her body healed, she was able to start picking up all her broken pieces. She wasn’t fixed, nowhere close, but it was a start.

Like most mornings, Rocco slept like a baby, passed out on the other side of the bed and snoring while Sloane read. She missed sleep, but she didn’t hate her peaceful quiet—[i]aside from Rocco[/i]—mornings. The morning announcements startled him awake. He jumped up and barked once or twice, before hurrying over to Sloane with a wagging tail. He flopped down in her lap, wiggling on his back for belly rubs as she listened to Andy.

The beginning of the announcements was nothing out of the ordinary, the date and the weather. But when she was ready for it to end, Andy took a long pause and kept going. [color=bd1664]"There was a note left at the main office for me to find… from the Gods. Exciting news, new demigods are expected to join us today. The note also mentioned a new leader and, quote, a [i]rigorous[/i] training regimen."[/color] She groaned at the thought of training. She had liked having a couple months without getting her butt kicked every other day. Sloane was happy locked away in her cabin away from the rest of camp… And her brother. But, unfortunately, it looked like those days were over.

[color=bd1664]"So, today will be the last day of these daily announcements… at least from me. And last, but not least, tonight at sundown on the Activities Field we will be having a New Year’s Eve celebration. So I’ll be seeing you, and the new campers there."[/color] In typical camp fashion, there was a party. But given the recent circumstances, this was one of the few times Sloane actually thought a night of fun and frivolity was in order, even if it was likely she’d only show up for the food and leave. Food was fun. Rocco liked food.

After his mandatory morning belly rubs, Rocco leapt off the bed and ran to the door when he noticed the snow. He barked and jumped around trying to bite at the flakes through the window, covering the glass in drool and nose prints. Sloane laughed as she climbed out of bed, bringing the blanket with her and wrapping it around her shoulders. She crouched down next to the puppy and looked out the window. [color=c7b29b]"Is it snowing?"[/color] she asked, patting his side. [color=c7b29b]"Do you want to go play in it?"[/color]

Rocco started jumping around even more, barking in excitement. [color=c7b29b]"Ok. Ok. Let me get dressed."[/color] In hindsight, she probably should have asked him about going outside [i]after[/i] she was dressed, because the entire time she tried doing anything he was right under foot, running in circles and knocking everything over with his tail. It ended up taking twice as long for her to get changed and ready to go outside with Rocco always up in her business. But it was cute, so he got a pass.

Sloane didn’t even have her coat on all the way when she finally opened the cabin door and let the dog free. Rocco sprinted up and down a small stretch of the path leading to the cabin, barking and trying to catch snowflakes. She grabbed his leash before closing the door behind her. She rarely needed it because with a couple months down time, there wasn’t much to do besides train him, and he minded really well. But if the announcements were correct about new campers, she didn’t have a clue what they’d be like… or more accurately, how well he’d behave around a bunch of new people. Just a bit of precaution.

Bundled up and as warm as she could possibly be, she whistled for Rocco. He immediately came running back and sat excitedly at her feet. [color=c7b29b]"Are you ready?"[/color] He barked. His wagging tail threw snow around and smacked her ankles. [color=c7b29b]"Ok. On your marks."[/color] Sloane bent her knees slightly and the dog shifted to his feet. [color=c7b29b]"Get set."[/color] She stood like she was about to run while he lowered his torso like a predator about to pounce. [color=c7b29b]"Go!"[/color]

And they were off, or Rocco was. Sloane still had a slight limp, her leg had healed, with some scarring, but she hadn’t been able to do much in the realm of physical therapy to rebuild her dexterity and strength. She was one of the least athletic people at camp, but the running was good for her and her recovery. It didn’t take long for Rocco to be long out of sight, but he knew where to go and she trusted him. She tried her best to keep up, but by the time she rounded the stables, she was out of breath and her leg was screaming.

Off in the middle of the field, she could see Rocco impatiently awaiting her, his head down, butt up and tail wagging vigorously. Sloane leaned down, scooping up snow in both of her hands. She walked in his direction molding the white fluff into a ball, then threw it at him. It was a bad throw, terrible honestly. It didn’t even make it half the way to Rocco, but he was ready. He sprinted towards the ball and crushed it in his mouth just before it would have hit the ground. Confused, he buried his head in the snow and sniffed in circles, trying to understand what happened to the ball.

Sloane got another snowball ready and was about to throw it when she caught a glimpse of Andy heading to the Main Hall and two new demigods wandering up the path from the entrance. [i]So it begins.[/i] She wondered if one of them was their new leader. And how many demigods were coming? Camp had been so quiet for so long it was weird to think of a bunch of new people wandering around. She kind of liked the ghost town aura, it suited introverts like herself. Either way, she was the farthest person from a welcome party. There was no way she was going to be running around trying to introduce herself to everyone. She was fine with being the weird quiet girl again.

She patted the frozen ball some more and looked down at Rocco who had started eating the snow as he waited for her to play with him. [color=c7b29b]"Ok. Ok. Sorry,"[/color] she laughed. [color=c7b29b]"Ready?"[/color] Once he was ready, she threw the snowball as far away as she could. Although she was hungry, she was happy to play with him for a bit. At least until she could no longer feel her fingers.[/color][/justify][/indent][/indent][/indent][/indent]

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[indent][indent][indent][indent][justify][color=808080]Camp had been eerily quiet for the past couple months. Most campers kept to their cabins, healing or grieving, or whatever it was they did. Sylas was usually someone who could find some way to entertain himself, usually at the expense of others, but with everyone shut away and nursing his own injuries, he found himself immensely bored. And with his palms sliced open, there wasn’t all that much he could do to self entertain either. Most of his days were spent listening to music or staring out the window.

There were a few times where Evelyn checked in on him and vice versa. But everything about whatever they had was… different. She could have stayed at his cabin if she wanted, but he never offered. He had a feeling it was the same for her place. There was no real label or term for whatever they shared, but in the end they had no obligation to each other. Even though he enjoyed seeing her and her company, he was still pissed that she didn’t listen to him during the Pandora’s box incident, which ended up getting her hurt. It was a new feeling for him, the possibility of not being trusted by someone he wanted to trust him. He wasn’t a fan of how that affected him.

Evelyn’s hold on Sylas left him very confused and conflicted on a regular basis. He never was one to bother himself with the opinions and feelings of others before her. Now everytime he did anything, he found himself wondering how she would react… If she would hate him. Oh, she had every right to and she should. But just the thought of that made his stomach twist in an unsettling knot. Romance was for the weak and he was allowing himself to be blinded by it. He was becoming sloppy.

For 3 months camp has been free of the pestilence that was Liam O’Connor, yet what had Sylas done about it? Nothing. Well, nothing beyond giving him the helpful nudge he needed to leave. That man was the hulk with a single brain cell and a wall between himself and his sister. Sloane was now alone, heartbroken and unprotected. A perfect target. But even if he managed to get anywhere near her cabin, she’d be waiting for him. He got caught once before and nearly ruined everything. Not only that, but she now knew she was powerful enough to control him. That was dangerous. He had to be more subtle and work behind the scenes like a puppet master. But he was patient… He could wait.

Sylas stood in front of his living room and sipped his coffee, while his mind kept toiling over all the machinations he had in store once everyone stopped hiding away in their damn cabins. He no longer had Liv to help with any of his dark dealings, so his only hope was Mason. Which last time he checked was so far up Andy’s ass, he might be a lost cause. He sighed. People at this camp were so unreliable… with their morals. [i]Pathetic.[/i]

He heard the announcements go off and fully intended on ignoring them like he always did. The fuck did he care about the weather? But the mention of a note piqued his interest. [color=bd1664]"...New campers…"[/color] [i]Blah, blah, blah.[/i] [color=bd1664]"...a new leader and, quote, a [i]rigorous[/i] training regimen."[/color] And something about another camp party, no surprise there. He was more interested in the new leader and new campers. Nick and Ajax were both useless in the leader category and whatever Andy was doing wasn’t much better. Plus she was complicated territory, if he was caught messing with her then he’d have to deal with whatever Mason fallout followed. But new blood meant new possibilities.

Cabin time was over. He exhaled deeply then downed the rest of his coffee. While passing through his kitchen, Sylas set his mug in the sink then made his way up to his room. It had been awhile since anyone new came to camp so a decent first impression was definitely the goal. He fingered through his clothing until he found something that was charming enough, yet also warm. He sprayed himself with some cologne and headed out the door.

He didn’t love the idea of mingling in a damn snow storm, but he couldn’t avoid the frigid weather forever. Sylas still wasn’t prepared for the wind’s bite when he stepped outside. He turned his collar up to try and block some of the chill, then shoved his hands in pockets. While normally he would enjoy a more leisurely stroll, he wasn’t particularly in the mood to waste time out in that weather. As he passed the armory, he caught a glimpse of Sloane playing in the snow with Liam’s little [i]pet[/i] out in the field. His pace slowed as he watched her. How could she seem so… happy? Sylas couldn’t fathom how someone like her could almost die, be the catalyst of a camp-wide massacre, be abandoned by a love, and still smile? When Lochlan cheated on her, she locked herself in her room for half a year and became catatonic. Yet there she was.

In that moment, Sloane froze like she could feel eyes on her, and before he looked away her gaze found his. Sylas’s eyes didn’t waiver as a small, enigmatic smile crossed his lips. He stayed there as long as she kept his gaze, only moving on once she got uncomfortable and looked away. Even now, he still had some sway over her… [i]good.[/i] Perhaps leaving his cabin [i]was[/i] a good idea. He chuckled to himself and continued toward the Main Hall. It was going to be a very interesting day indeed.[/color][/justify][/indent][/indent][/indent][/indent]

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[color=808080][b]interactions[/b] [color=2e2c2c]....[/color]|[color=2e2c2c]....[/color] none [color=2e2c2c]...............[/color] [b]mentions[/b] [color=2e2c2c]....[/color]|[color=2e2c2c]....[/color] sloane & evelyn [color=2e2c2c]...............[/color] [b]collabs[/b] [color=2e2c2c]....[/color]|[color=2e2c2c]....[/color] none[/color]
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[indent][indent][indent][indent][justify][color=808080][color=bd1664]"Good morning, campers. It is currently 9 a.m., on December 31st, New Year’s Eve."[/color] Blair groaned, burying her head under her pillow, desperate to drown out the obnoxious and very unnecessary announcements. Couldn’t they wait until noon like a sane person? Who in their right mind wanted to be up that early. [color=bd1664]"It’s currently 15 degrees fahrenheit, -9.4 degrees celsius, and snowing. So be sure to wear your boots and winter coats when you leave your cabins today."[/color]

The pillow did little to nothing to block out the noise. She hoped they were over, but Andy’s voice just kept going. [color=bd1664]"There was a note left at the main office for me to find… from the Gods."[/color]

[color=c9bef3]"Oh my Gods, who cares?"[/color] Blair sat up, ready to throw her pillow at whatever speaker the announcements were coming from… If she could find it. Turns out, she never really cared enough to look for it.

[color=bd1664]"Exciting news, new demigods are expected to join us today."[/color] Blair perked up, the announcements suddenly a lot more interesting than just the weather. [color=bd1664]"The note also mentioned a new leader and, quote, a [i]rigorous[/i] training regimen. So, today will be the last day of these daily announcements… at least from me. And last, but not least, tonight at sundown on the Activities Field we will be having a New Year’s Eve celebration. So I’ll be seeing you, and the new campers there."[/color]

[color=c9bef3]"Thank the Gods, [i]boys[/i] and a party!"[/color]

However tired she was a minute ago was completely gone. She jumped out of bed with an excited vigor and ran to the bathroom. Blair undressed so fast she nearly tripped on her underwear on her way into the shower. It was excessive the amount of time she spent in there making sure to clean, scrub, and shave every inch of her body. It had been months since a guy laid hands on her, the last time being Nick. [i]May he rest in peace.[/i] But a girl’s got needs, and she was in [i]desperate[/i] need of being thoroughly ravished.

Squeaky clean, she spent twice as long in front of the mirror drying and curling her hair, then put on a full face of makeup. While Blair, obviously, had to look her best at the prospect of new available men to warm her bed, she was disappointed at how cold it was outside. That really limited her wardrobe options, and all her best outfits were definitely for the warmer seasons. She didn’t have a whole bunch in the slutty winter category, but she’d just have to make do. It took sometime, but eventually she managed to put something together that was… good enough.

Dressed to impress, ready to break hearts… and beds, Blair hurried outside and bee-lined for her brother’s cabin next door. She banged on the door, obnoxiously loud. [color=c9bef3]"Lochlan! Open up! It’s fucking cold out here,"[/color] she shouted from his porch, no doubt pissing everyone off in nearby cabins. She banged again. [color=c9bef3]"Come on,"[/color] she muttered to herself, bouncing up and down to keep warm.

When he didn’t answer after a couple minutes, Blair’s patience had run its course. [color=c9bef3]"Fuck this,"[/color] she cursed under her breath. She willed herself intangible and walked straight through his front door like it wasn’t there. [color=c9bef3]"Lochlan!"[/color] She called to him, stomping her way up the stairs and into his bedroom.

[color=c9bef3]"Are you deaf?"[/color] Blair chastised him as she walked around the room, opening all the curtains to let in light. [color=c9bef3]"Didn’t you hear the announcements?"[/color] she asked, not bothering to look at him. She was on a mission. Like a slutty busy bee, she went straight for his closet and started rifling through his clothes. She scoffed or grimaced at every other piece of clothing, shoving it aside and moving onto the next piece. [color=c9bef3]"No. No. No."[/color] The screech of hangers dragged across the clothing rod filled the silence of his room. [color=c9bef3]"Gods, did you bring [i]nothing[/i] I bought you?"[/color]

Blair pursed her lips in thoughts. She sucked in air making annoying high-pitched squeaks. [color=c9bef3]"This will have to do."[/color] She grabbed a couple pieces of clothing and tossed them onto his bed, whether or not he was still lying there was irrelevant. [color=c9bef3]"Look, it’s about time you got over Sloane and stopped pining after her. There’s a bunch of fresh faced demigods coming to camp for you to fuck… or fuck with, I don’t care. But I’m getting you out of this cabin."[/color] She stopped to look in his mirror and used her ring finger to touch up the lipstick at the corner of her mouth. [color=c9bef3]"So, please get dressed so we can go judge the newbies and decide who’s lives to ruin, ok?"[/color] She spun around to face him, giving him her usual mischievous smile. [color=c9bef3]"I’ll be downstairs."[/color] With that, she disappeared back down to his living room.[/color][/justify][/indent][/indent][/indent][/indent]

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[color=667c0c][b]#667c0c[/b][/color] [color=2e2c2c]....[/color]|[color=2e2c2c].....[/color] [color=9b9b9b][b]naked[/b][/color] [color=2e2c2c].....[/color]|[color=2e2c2c].....[/color] [color=9b9b9b][b]trinity's cabin[/b][/color] [color=2e2c2c]..............................................................[/color] [color=66356a][b]#66356a[/b][/color] [color=2e2c2c]....[/color]|[color=2e2c2c].....[/color] [color=9b9b9b][b]naked[/b][/color] [color=2e2c2c].....[/color]|[color=2e2c2c].....[/color] [color=9b9b9b][b]her cabin[/b][/color]
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[indent][indent][indent][indent][justify][color=808080][color=bd1664]"Good morning, campers. It is currently 9 a.m., on December 31st, New Year’s Eve."[/color] Andy’s voice echoed throughout the camp as their daily wake up call roused Wes from his deep sleep. He grumbled and groaned, stretching out his morning stiffness and grogginess. [color=bd1664]"It’s currently 15 degrees fahrenheit, -9.4 degrees celsius, and snowing. So be sure to wear your boots and winter coats when you leave your cabins today."[/color]

Wes had been stuck under Trinity’s watchful… and forceful house arrest over the past 3 months. It was cute watching her worry over him. Blair did a decent enough job cauterizing his wound, that he didn’t really need anything else beside rest. But Trin’s nursing practices went a little harder than bed rest. It was more, don’t leave the bed unless you need to pee or shower, and even then she insisted on helping. It was a month before she let him actually move around her cabin without getting yelled at. He still wasn’t allowed out of her sight, and definitely not outside.

The one positive was if he was stuck in bed, he could usually force her to stay in bed with him. After all, it was important he remained active… to keep his muscle tone. At least, that was the way he painted it to her, and Trinity had gotten pretty bad at telling him no. He was sure the cabin probably smelled like months of sex, and was in desperate need of airing out. But they hardly noticed. Who in their right mind would complain about that?

His hand searched for her under the covers. When Wes found her, his arm hooked around her bare waist and pulled her close. Her body molded to the curve of his with her back pressed against his chest. [color=667c0c]"[i]Mmm[/i]... Good morning, beautiful,"[/color] he mumbled against her shoulder before giving the back of her neck a tender kiss.

Trinity awoke to Andy’s announcement but didn’t move a muscle. Especially hearing what conditions and cold awaited them outside. Her hostage spree worked well as she benefited from his company, bedroom talents, and warmth.

When Wes pulled her closer and did his affectionate toaster duties she smiled. [color=66356a]"Morning."[/color]

[color=bd1664]"There was a note left at the main office for me to find… from the Gods. Exciting news, new demigods are expected to join us today. The note also mentioned a new leader and, quote, a [i]rigorous[/i] training regimen. So, today will be the last day of these daily announcements… at least from me."[/color] Wes’s brows furrowed at the news, but he remained quiet, his face nuzzled in the crook of Trinity’s neck as he waited for the announcements to end. [color=bd1664]"And last, but not least, tonight at sundown on the Activities Field we will be having a New Year’s Eve celebration. So I’ll be seeing you, and the new campers there."[/color]

[color=667c0c]"Guess that means Ajax and Alex are gone for good."[/color] He rested his chin on Trinity’s shoulder. They both had fucked up… a lot, before they left camp. But it wasn’t fair to those they wronged that they were just whisked away to Olympus to avoid the repercussions of their actions. It was hard remembering how he was ever friends with Alex, knowing all the stuff she has done. She shouldn’t have gotten off so easily for the things she did. He missed having friends, and while Alex [i]was[/i] his best friend, he didn’t miss it or her… as messed up as it was to admit. All she did was cause problems, and Wes wanted nothing more than to just enjoy his life with Trinity and avoid any of the camp drama bullshit.

Trinity propped up on an arm, frown still in place before glancing back at him. [color=66356a]"Did you know that self-proclaimed and God-elected leaders of camp wind up missing or dead?"[/color] Granted, Ajax wasn’t really missing as much as hightailed it to Olympus, sister in tow. Nick met his demise and Andy kind of naturally evolved into the reins and it worked. It finally seemed comfortable and to work. Now the Gods were messing with the system again.

[color=667c0c]"Hmm…"[/color] Wes mused to himself, a bit lost in the thought of what it all would mean.

She sighed out before turning to face Wes. She forgot that sometimes Alex was his friend, as much as she would have liked to have broken a few of the daughter of Zeus’ bones. [color=66356a]"You okay with them being gone for good?"[/color] She stroked his cheek. Sure, she didn’t give a rat's ass but Wes brought out the content and compassion in her. [i]Curse him[/i]

Wes leaned his head into her touch and shrugged his shoulder. [color=667c0c]"I don’t know. I mean, were the Valises ever really good friends to anyone? Look at Andy and how indifferent Ajax was to her."[/color] He sighed softly. [color=667c0c]"Alex did a lot of fucked up shit that I don’t think even I could look past. You can’t apologize away almost killing someone."[/color]

Then something pinged in her. [i]Rigorous[/i] training as it was referred to excited her but Wesley… her hand reached under the covers rubbing up and down his leg until it slid to his inner thigh. While it seemed she might have been after his goods, and may have grazed them, she was actually looking for [i]aha![/i] She located his scar and pressed her thumb down on the scarred femoral artery checking if it was tender. [color=66356a]"Are you and your most recent battle wound up for an intense training regimen?"[/color] Because he knew she’d put a halt to that shit if he wasn’t ready. But maybe he had to be. Depending on what power deemed it so.

Wes raised a brow at her wandering hand and for a second he got his hopes up until she found his scar. When she pressed her finger against it he faked a wince, just to get a rise out of her. He laughed, grabbing her hand and kissing her palm before she could smack him out of annoyance. [color=667c0c]"It doesn’t hurt."[/color] He freed his leg from the blanket, bending his knee to get a better look at it. [color=667c0c]"It’s just ugly. Not as bad as losing an arm though,"[/color] he teased with a playful smile.

She narrowed her eyes and mocked a growl. Eventually she forfeited the bed and put on the winter layers to brace for the cold. She forgot how tampering Gods could be sometimes. [color=66356a]"So,"[/color] she began forcing her way through some boots, [color=66356a]"New batch of campers, new ‘leader’, new training schedule and we’ve been in holiday recovery mode. So…"[/color] Trinity hoped Wes would pick up her exact train of thought and suggest pre-training for the day until the gathering. They needed to look, and be sharp and fierce so no bastards tried anything.

However, she supposed she wasn’t totally against his own suggestions.

Wes sighed when she climbed out of bed. He rolled onto his back with a dramatic groan. The last thing on the planet he wanted to do was train. It was no secret he was a shit fighter. He’s won fights by sheer dumb luck and nothing more. He was lucky he survived at all. [color=667c0c]"So, you wanna train for this [i]’new leader’[/i] who is probably a d-bag?"[/color] He asked, looking up at the ceiling.

Trinity opened her mouth to oppose his theory as the second boot battle began but he got in first.

[color=667c0c]"Or,"[/color] he teased, shifting to his knees, bare ass out. He grabbed Trinity’s wrist and pulled her backwards onto the bed before she got her second boot on. Wes smiled down at her with a playful grin and brushed her golden hair behind her ear. [color=667c0c]"We could stay inside and keep each other warm,"[/color] he whispered like it was a secret. [color=667c0c]"Sounds like a much more enjoyable [i]rigorous[/i] activity."[/color]

Trinity laughed and had to smirk up at him. [color=66356a]"You think just because you’re a little sex God and all so charming you can get out of anything, don’t you?"[/color] She teased back. [color=66356a]"Although it is some great fine print you’ve found."[/color] She cupped his jaw and guided him in for a kiss where their lips met. [color=66356a]"But no.”[/color] She booped his nose with a grin and left the bed for the second time.

He groaned when she pulled away, parting their lips and leaving him half puckered up in the bed. [color=667c0c]"[i]Sex God?[/i]"[/color] he mused to himself with a proud smile. [color=667c0c]"Can I get that in writing? Maybe a plaque?"[/color]

[color=66356a]"I want us to train,"[/color] Trinity began her famous lecturing while retrieving that second boot once again.

Wes shifted so that he was sitting at the foot of the bed. [color=667c0c]"Mhmm,"[/color] he acknowledged her as he hooked his index finger in the belt loop of her pants. With a little tug, he guided her back to him so she stood between his knees. His hand slowly ran along her backside, curved around her thigh, then slowly worked its way down. He grabbed that damned second boot, pulled it off and tossed it across the room.

[color=66356a]"Because then we can flex our powers..."[/color] Trinity tried to resume the lecture, but he was also [i]very[/i] distracting.

Wes spun her around to face him and pulled her close enough that her waist was right at eye height. [i]Convenient.[/i] He held her gaze intently while his fingers worked untying the other boot. After getting her foot free, he threw the shoe aside, not paying it any mind. The corners of his mouth tugged into a mischievous grin. He leaned in and grabbed the button of her pants between his teeth. With one small jerk of his head they were unfastened.

[color=66356a]"And umm…"[/color] whatever she was saying, she was losing sense of quickly. Her words became mumbled nonsense until they evolved into a happy little hum.

[color=667c0c]"Flexing our power is [i]very[/i] important,"[/color] he agreed, never looking away or breaking her gaze. Meanwhile, his hand inched the clothes right back down her legs. [color=667c0c]"But, first impressions are important, don’t you think?"[/color] Wes slowly stood up, allowing his lips to briefly brush against hers as they passed. [color=667c0c]"And when [i]was[/i] the last time we showered?"[/color]

She tried very hard to keep her iron focus but it was faltering, faltering like her steady heart beat. [color=66356a]"I… "[/color] she answered quietly without much thought. He could ask her what day it was at the moment and she wouldn’t know. All she knew was his touch excited her and he undid her pants with his teeth!

The tip of his thumb ran along the bottom of her shirt while his hand rested on her hip. [color=667c0c]"But, if you’d rather train…"[/color] he teased, grinning down at her with his charming little smile.

Trinity glared at him. If he wasn’t already naked, she’d rip his clothes off in a second. [color=66356a]"We’re not training."[/color] She all but lunged on him.

When he wasn’t met with any objections, Wes grabbed a hold of the hem of her shirt. He waited for her to raise her arms, then pulled it over her head. He subtly stepped his left foot on her pants that rested around her ankles, then when he picked her up her feet easily slipped free. His arm hooked under her bottom to support her weight as she wrapped her legs around his waist.

Even without his bionic arm, Wes managed to carry her to the bathroom with ease while being littered with kisses and nibbles. He lacked some of the finesse a second hand would give him, but still managed to get them both in the shower. He pressed Trinity’s back against the cool tile. [color=667c0c]"Mind getting the water?"[/color] he purred in her ear, then started trailing kisses along her jaw.

Trinity tilted her head for him and reached around blindly for the taps to start the cascade of water.[/color][/justify][/indent][/indent][/indent][/indent]

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