Sir Sparky

Camp Athens - Closed

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^{47815a........|.... Main Hall}

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Some things didn’t budge in the slightest. Like Evelyn’s fairy god-mother ways and words of wisdom. “I wouldn’t tamper just yet,” she advised. “Besides, the camp could do with a little discipline,” she muttered, seemingly reluctant.

Daniel laughed to himself, burying his hands in his pockets. A child of Nemesis of them all would play a fair judge despite their own beliefs and experiences. But he would heed her. "Sure. We need to sharpen our skills and get some routine again, but who made him leader? And why? He’s all up to date with camp’s roster, the past events and leaderships. But where’s he been?" He didn’t aim to make the red head paranoid but River had to prove himself yet. Daniel’s approach might have been questionable but to understand hell, River had to go through it and that meant fighting creatures that were straight out of a book of nightmares. Leaders that didn’t practice what they preached didn’t sit right.

Daniel held the door open for his company then strolled over to the food while she selected a table. His fingers hovered over some options in anticipation before settling for a sushi roll or two. As he spun on his heel, he took in the new black haired girl going to town on her food. He raised his chin to Evelyn, promising to be there in a moment after his quick detour for the starved newbie. "Powers and a workout? Or do we call a demigod protection agency for neglect?" He wasn't judging how much she had or how fast she ate. They had all been there. Daniel flashed her a smile. He knocked on her table, leaving her to her feast in peace, the interaction more of a walk by and acknowledgement of her existence than ignoring one of the few demigods in the hall.

With his smile in place, he sat across from Evelyn, who shifted when he rejoined her. He suspected and braced for an expansion on the lecture of conjuring things but instead he received something unexpected. “You weren’t thinking of another Wendigo were you?”

Such a simple comment filled him with far too much joy and proved a testament to her memory. "You remembered!" He took his first mouthful of food and squinted in thought. "Those scary Algonquian things. Mmm. They’re pretty jacked. Even for demigods. And especially for a son of Poseidon. But can they drown?" Daniel gave another pensive noise before shrugging. He’d be entertained to try myth bust but Miss Masters wouldn’t want that attached to her conscience. "I’ll get back to you on that." Daniel winked at her again. Rest assured, he didn’t feel like making something that fast, strong and reasonably intelligent again that wanted to eat people of all things. Daniel rolled his shoulders out thinking of the ghoulish cannibals and its razor teeth. "At least not until I learn how to teleport," he mumbled.

Something else stewed in her mind that made her nervous in the way she bit her lip, but Daniel ate peacefully as he contemplated what summoning another creepy and intelligent monster would look like in the meantime. Other than the all around terrible. “How’ve you been anyway?” She asked finally. He got his signature grin back and shrugged as if it were obvious. He was positively fine. “Since Cher…ise…”

Hearing her name caused his grin to fade and look down. "Ahh." That was the catch and mood dip in Evelyn. Daniel looked back up, but not at her, rather, a random space. "Fine. Fine. I miss her. She was a spec of sunshine. It felt like we were in a good place and going into a better place and then, you know, Rae didn’t make it." Not that it was the daughter of Artemis’s fault for dying or anything but that had to change some chemical reaction seeing your best friend pass. "I would’ve loved to have held her and talked to her at least but, I woke up and she was gone." He woke up after losing consciousness trying to save the daughter of Apollo specifically but life wasn’t fair. And if there were any signs they weren’t meant to be a couple, Cherise leaving was a blatant derail and ram onto another road.

He brushed his thumb and forefinger together as he flashbacked to the box events. Daniel didn’t even know what got Rae or what Cherise went through. He went full sprint after a beast that beelined the girls, became a chew toy, killed the thing and he was out. Last he saw they were in one piece and fine, grouping up with some others. He thought he did the right thing within his capabilities. They should’ve been safe.

His eyes shifted back on Evelyn. "What about you? Tell me your great Pandora tales of woe," he said, part desperate to have some spotlight off him and part courteous to ask how she faired. It had been a while since they caught up and finally she had some monster stories of her own.

"And all your great forecasts for training," he added with a swish of his fork, intrigued to pick some predictions of an intelligent demigod. "You know since, if we get stuck with any teamwork exercises, it’s singlehandedly your fault. "

^{interactions ....|.... Evelyn, Tapessa (drive walk by) ............... mentions ....|.... none}

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^{8e0047....|.... outfit ....|....Arena > Cabin}

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Lochlan’s gaze coolly moved to a girl who introduced herself as a healer. His bitter thoughts said Blair didn’t need it. To let her stew in the making of her own mistakes longer but the concerned brother in him couldn’t bring himself to object. Somewhere in him he wanted to see Blair better too.

For the purpose of not deterring someone who wanted to help, he kept his eyes elsewhere. He even moved up a row and slid away and detached himself from the conversing happening around him entirely. It wasn’t personal against any aid and fuss that she caused, he only hated this camp. And how reckless his intelligent sister was in an environment full of other demigods but still got away with it, consequence free just like at home. Daddy’s favorite who could do no wrong. Always making a scene and needing the spotlight wherever she stepped.

Maybe he should have settled for military school. Alone. The thought stirred an uneasiness in him, knowing it was a crueler and harsher idea under the surface.

His mind was miles away from watching people complete the course over and over, but that’s where his eyes sat. An ongoing show of his peers running, climbing, jumping, swimming. Lochlan hung his head back, bored to death. Could this leader guy not dismiss the people that already went through the obstacles at least? There was one group filled with insanely attractive people, and while most of camp was, this group had something that peaked his interest including the one armed guy, Wes, (while Lochlan didn’t swing that way he was a strangely admittedly good looking dude, the stump in his arm hardly proving the hinderance it should in physical appeal), the healer, Anissa, a girl he hadn’t had the pleasure to meet yet but would very much like to with picture perfect figure and Evelyn. But watching them perform was where his interest dulled again. He wanted to push them along faster and haul them over jumps and ladders so the struggle would end. Everyone in that group milked their time.

Physical ability was so limited. Smaller people tended to struggle with the ladder because they didn’t have the reach, they had to work harder for the long jump because they didn’t have the stride. Tall people struggled to get low. It just didn’t seem indicative enough in a mythological world. Even Lochlan found himself wanting to flex his powers instead and see what all the other bodies of camp could do. Blair educated him on theory:
Zeus – lightning
Poseidon – water,
Hades – darkness or death or…something.

Anyway, it would be far more interesting watching things on repeat if it could be controlled and vary more, like people using their powers in offence and defense situations.

Eventually, River stepped back up to announce the results snapping Lochlan out of his daze. He came equal fifth with five other people. He grunted, supposing that would have to do given the gene pool and what he was competing against. Blair’s name and time came last, only beating a no show. But hey, Lochlan would’ve bet she was over twenty minutes so eighteen something was above his expectations.

They were dismissed and Lochlan rose to his feet with a stretch. At least, he was dismissed. He was lucky enough to catch that those that didn’t meet the mark were to stay back and run it again. Lochlan grinned while Blair inevitably sulked about it.

"Don’t bother waiting for me."

Oh, but if it annoys you, it would be my pleasure.

While the girls offered her false consolation in a promise of breakfast and how shit it was, Lochlan was the only quiet one. He was temporarily stuck in a small debate on whether he should deliberately hang back and watch her struggle through it, knowing Blair would hate the extra pair of unnecessary eyes on her, and leaving. He had been cooped in the arena long enough already.

Lochlan rose his hand lazily to Anissa as she offered departing pleasantries and did the same for Fiona.

Because nothing matched the spite of a younger brother, Lochlan made a point to linger. At least until Blair did her first obstacle. It was really more the joy of watching her do the walk of shame back into the middle of the arena and feeling a judgmental gaze on her. He lifted his eyes from his sister, sparing a glance around the others who had to repeat, including Sloane and at least two of Aphrodite's kids.

He'd sincerely rather not get sucked in watching that. Lochlan flicked on his coat and disappeared to his cabin briskly. For now.

^{interactions ....|.... Blair, Anissa, Fiona ............... mentions ....|....Group 5}

Camp Athens - Closed

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^{47815a....|.... Arena}

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Without asking, but definitely fishing, Evelyn took some of his pain away like an immediate shot of an opioid medication. But better because it didn’t need to be injected or swallowed or make him too dopey. “You’ll still need to take care of it,” she said.

Daniel found himself exhaling dreamily as pressure released from his back and he felt like a real boy again who could sit, stand and move with ease if he wanted. He nodded at her kind warning. "Whatever you say," he replied, more like a child that wouldn’t quite heed a cautionary tale than completely dismissive.

River read out the results for all to hear. And he read a lot of names and times that weren’t Daniel Vadas yet. He had no expectations to be in the top tier. That was all Zeus and Ares kids’ place but still, he wasn’t called at 10 or 11 minutes. Then his name fell after 12 minutes. He beat the 15 minute window after all.

However, the list rolled on, looking more grim for others. His current company falling past the 15 minute mark and nearing 16. That obviously bust the mood because her soothing ceased on him, and she tried to nurse and soothe her own composure instead. Daniel sat up slowly, studying her. He didn’t think he had ever seen her upset. Or shitty. A darker part of him was quite intrigued to see the new side but she gathered herself well enough. Of course she did.

The goodies were dismissed for the whole rest of the day. But Daniel stayed unmoving, because there was no mention of the baddies yet. Then…BOMBSHELL! The poor bastards who didn’t meet the time had to run it again. Had he not been near Evelyn and recently aided by her, he would’ve laughed. He could feel the suppressed laughter tickle his throat as he rubbed his jaw to cover his fleeting smile. It wasn’t typical funny, it wasn’t bully funny, but it was ironic and just a tad chaotic.

The redhead next to him grabbed the water she previously refused with intent, took a few gulps and replaced it unhappily. “Excuse me.”

Daniel bowed his head forgivingly, lips wavering to fight a smile. He didn’t take any slamming of bottles personally. She had right to be ticked off and didn’t have to use manners. But she did.

Daniel sighed to himself, getting to his feet. Well, he wasn’t exactly sure the support she wanted was more witnesses to the course again. But he did feel bad as more than a few people brought their plus ones along and she autopiloted to do it alone. No expectant glances at the stands for help or batting her eyes to charm someone into it. Daniel rubbed his neck and sat back down. It was the least he could do. She moved with focus and tunnel vision, he was almost certain she wanted - or at least expected, to do it alone.

There were early signs of fatigue on the re-run. More errors, less zest. From her and the others. The rope wasn’t happening for her but she tried when she should have skipped past it a lot earlier than she did. She hesitated at the pool, seemingly pausing for a long moment at the start. He squinted his eyes, wondering what was going on in that head of hers from afar. She dove in and pretty quickly he could see it. Fine in appearance but not what she had her first round and her strokes only carried her most the way before they deteriorated and she broke for the wall.

Evelyn yelled out at River. Not for help as much as mercy, like he was actively torturing her. Daniel’s eyes widened as he looked between River who was cool as a cucumber and Evelyn. She snapped. She actually snapped.

Daniel didn’t budge from his spot though until she was finished and let her legs cave. He rose from the stands and headed down to the arena to her steadily, honestly half expecting someone else would peel her from the ground or sit with her before he got there. But maybe she was too goal orientated for her own good. Maybe no one wanted to accompany the girl that had her first outburst in a century. Daniel held his hand out to help her up. "I gotcha." This time it was his turn to offer an assuring smile with a wink.

He pulled her to her feet and steadied her with his other hand. Daniel stepped back with a small relieved exhale when he was confident she could stand on her own without swaying or faltering. "Hey, maybe all this drying, running the course, jotting down notes and observing people will wear him out," he tried. Something again they both knew better about but as long as it was a comforting thought.

Daniel looked her over. She was undeniably attractive even when sweating, shot to hell, raw hands and…between her top and pants, the peak of a scar stuck out. He grinned. "Welcome to the club." Daniel pat over his predominant scar on his chest currently concealed by his shirt, having shown and told Evelyn about all his battle scars before. "It’s basically camp initiation. You’re locked in now."

With a flick of the wrist, their jackets landed in his arms. "Whenever you’re ready," he said with gentle sincerity. She could sit, lean, stand and talk as long as she liked. He didn’t mind.

Maybe there was a moment or two that ticked by where he was normal and tame. But thinking more on how Evelyn wasn’t quite ship-shape and she crashed out, the wheels started turning. Confident they had their own space around them, he let it fly. "You know, with your blessing, I can, uh, give him a visitor later." Unsatisfied with his own sales pitch, sure that was too ominous for her liking, he continued. "Make sure the leader is actual leader material, give him a proper dose of camp." It was still ominous, but at least it had an experimental purpose. No different really than what he was doing to them. Still wasn't sitting right? "If he doesn't apologize?" he suggested as a sweetener.

^{interactions ....|.... Evelyn ............... mentions ....|.... River}

Camp Athens - Closed

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^{47815a ....|.... Arena}

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Daniel grinned at River’s name and biological link sharing a quick glance around at others to see if they found it equally as amusing. However many were too mature and serious and brooding for that.

Managing to wipe the amusement from Daniel’s face was when River spoke of the past leaderships and how they failed. Like the dude’s half brother didn’t get ripped open by some monster. Like the Valises were something he experienced. Daniel appreciated the attempted bonding and that he listened to the gossip, likely stemming from Poseidon’s summary notes of camp but newbies couldn’t really talk. Even if it was with conviction. But at least Andy got an honorable mention causing Daniel to clap. "Woo! Yeah, Andy! " His deepened voice carried across the arena alone.

River continued his speech, promising a stricter but essential regime and assessments. Which was fine, but he needed to balance captain hard ass with ‘maybe fun in the future.’ Instead, the new leader led by example.

The son of Hecate studied the course intently as if an obstacle might shift or warp outside of its norm. No alligators snapping up from the water, no floor as lava, no buildings or debris to scale, no monster chasing anyone from behind to inspire their speed. It appeared a perfectly ordinary course which he found both disappointing and relieving. His sister needed to work on her flare for dramatics.

Daniel had to consider a chat with River. If he wanted motivation done right, he had to threaten people, scare the living daylights out of them and whip them into shape like their own life was on the line because…it would be at some stage. Demigods and camp had a notorious hit on them.

Numbers of demigods ran. A lot of them new faces. He thought of cheering for his more familiar new gal pal/kidnapped dancer, the daughter of Teresa, but spared her the potential embarrassment. He didn’t want to rain on her parade. Plus, Zeus kids could have a sneaky temper. And people thought he wasn’t considerate. But he had a lot of time to note the range in folks. Some people crushed it and he tried to observe how they moved and approached obstacles in common. Other people were very mid good: not bad but not particularly fast. The average. The graze byers and others… well these assessments showed where people struggled. Daniel aspired for a high-mid range. Hopefully.

His time in the stands also gave him significant findings that the course truly, undeniably, inexplicably, was a plain obstacle course. Never moving or changing in the slightest even between different groups. Except for indents in the ground where demigods fell or dug up with their feet. But there were no stakes. And no one to currently talk to in the mean time. Everyone was too engaged in conversation or intensely focusing on the course or sulking or recovering or basking in their peacocking glory.

Or maybe he was afraid to even try. The timing genuinely reeked. So Daniel sat alone and quiet through about 5 groups running it all before him. When he was called, he drummed on his legs, revving everything into gear. His enthusiasm, energy, muscles. That was the idea anyway.

Standing before the 30 tires, he had to cadmit everything suddenly looked a lot bigger and longer on level terrain than from the stands. Welp, he was here now.

Daniel rapidly counted the tires as he 1,2 quickstepped the heck outta them. The log jumps started as a hurdles but finished as some parkour hop scotch only less quick. The rest of his group appeared to be on speed and clear it all already while Daniel actually paused and thought about his next moves. Daniel dove to the ground with commitment, managed to heave himself up to the tip top of the rope, scooted across a wobbly bridge, swung across an imaginary void, all with commitment and conviction. He knew he wasn’t slow though. Daniel couldn’t figure out if he was out of practice or never actually as fit as he thought.

Now, for his next trick. Daniel’s arms extended to his sides before he took his first step on the balance beams. He had to admit, nimble as he could be hiding from all his beasts he used to conjure, he never walked across a tiny plank or played pirates before. Not in a long time anyway. While he didn’t exactly hold feline grace, he made it across relatively smoothly.

He kicked off his shoes and socks awkwardly as he half ran and hopped towards the pool. In the nick of time, he had successfully discarded his unwelcome layers and dove into the pool, his form and technique perfectly fine to power through to the other side. Even hopping out of the pool wasn’t as sluggish as he felt. But his steroid infused group wouldn’t budge or slow down. "What the fuck?" he spluttered.

He ran up to the ladder, attempting to shake his disbelief and excess water off. Daniel eased into a nice pace about half way up the ladder finding his footing and vertical strides, where he could stop checking his feet landings and just trust it. On the turn down, his focus faltered. Was he too slow and uncoordinated to stop Cherise from leaving? Could he have helped her Rae and that would’ve prevented everything? His foot slipped off a lower rung about half way and he fell to the ground back first. Daniel opened his mouth but no sound came. A silent dignified cry of agony. His hand sunk under himself feeling his lower back as he tried to arch off it, as if he could feel the injury. As expected, he learned nothing new aside from his tailbone fucking hurt.

Daniel crawled to his feet and pushed the pain aside, pushed for an extra ‘umph’ of energy to rip the course off and be done with it like a band-aid. "Aagh," the guttural sound left him at the finish, cupping his back again.

He wasn’t wet anymore, at the very least. Whatever that counted for he supposed. He hobbled his way back to the stands, conjuring a water bottle that only appeared a quarter of the way full. Half concentrated thoughts got shitty results he supposed. Somewhere along the way, he decided he didn’t want to sit alone. He wanted company and distraction and..comfort even. Daniel turned down Evelyn’s row and tried a defeated smile to the familiar red head, hoping she wouldn’t mind as he lowered himself down beside her, unusually without word or banter. Sitting on the stone made him hiss in pain, the pressure of a hard surface especially too much on his back. Daniel warped his jacket to him, trying to give himself as much padding as possible. He was moments away from conjuring cushions and a luxury soft lounge around him but he tried to hold out for River to officially disband training.

Or, there was the girl he sat shoulder to shoulder, leg to leg with. Daniel grabbed her hand gently. Extremely gingerly seeing her hands raw with rope burn, as a need for silent support. His head dipped down slightly and eyes were abashed, embarrassed at his run, afraid to ask Evelyn verbally for help or have his physical contact be rejected. Daniel shifted, wanting to get the direct pressure off his tail bone and lay on his side beside her, bringing her hand to his chest. The whole thing was uncomfortable but he hoped she took pity on him and turned down the pain.

Daniel sipped on his water to contain his visible discomfort, then held some up to his forced aid.

^{interactions ....|.... Evelyn ............... mentions ....|.... Rosalia, River, Group 7}

Camp Athens - Closed

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^{8e0047....|.... outfit ....|....Arena}

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Lochlan’s split focus on Blair, Fiona and the arena filling with other demigods slowly, turned fully to the girl who approached uncertainly. Hopefully unrelated.

"Um…hi. I, uh—We met yesterday."

Lochlan glanced quickly at his hungover sister for verification, not that it dictated whether he’d be pleasant or not. He looked back at the soon to be non-stranger. "Sure. It pays to have friends…" Lochlan left a silence for her to fill in her name.

But Blair flew into action, in her own way and own time, throwing her jacket off and consequently into Fiona. "Anissa! Thank the Gods." Blair earned herself a disapproving side eye that he was sure she wouldn’t care for even if she did spot it. Not because she threw her jacket carelessly into another half of Hera but because she didn’t let Anissa give over her own name.

Lochlan slid an inch away from Blair, untrusting of her sturdiness as she sat and guzzled the water, sure he’d have an elbow or vomit on him with her sudden burst of movement. His eyes drifted back up to Anissa almost apologetically. But also full of wonder on how their meeting went yesterday when Blair was so intoxicated. Did she meet the winning attitude of this morning, was she a bitch and that’s how they bonded or was it something more sincere? He inched away from Blair a fraction more. A silent invitation for the brunette awkwardly lingering.

"Yes, I made it to my own cabin… Alone," Blair answered finally, causing Lochlan to look back at her. "I got lost a couple times, but I eventually found it." Good, that’s what mattered. "What about you? It was your fucking idea for shots, but I’m the one hungover… Make it make sense."

He smiled to himself slightly as if the answer were obvious. "I can handle my liquor." Simple, sweet and mocking. He would’ve addressed the rest. How he returned to his cabin alone as well instead of the daughter of Aphrodite’s bed or even couch because he was distracted by the bad shape Blair was in. But it didn’t seem wise to boast about the desire of other women around women. Not when they were just as cute.

Blair yanked Anissa down decidedly between Fiona and herself. Lochlan blinked his disbelief and frustration into space. Did Blair deliberately keep her new pal away and actively work against him or what?

"Anissa, this is my brother Lochlan." Lochlan leaned back on his palm to view Anissa and held out a hand behind Blair’s back with a smile. "Same dad—mortal—different moms. His is Hera. And then that—" Blair pointed toward the red head on Anissa’s other side. "Is Fiona, also Lochlan’s sister, but both Hera… It’s all very Once Upon a Time."

There was a point where Blair could shush. It was never a big deal to Blair and Lochlan always acted like he didn’t mind but he always felt uncomfortable that his mother pursued the same man as Athena, and he came second like some sort of intruder. His father certainly never let him forget that he was second rate anyway. As he hooked an arm behind Blair’s neck, hand ready to give her hair a passive aggressive tousle, the man with a plan took over and his arm slumped down behind him slowly. Some sort of drill sergeant took over going on about how camp hell had dropped the ball on the whole hell part and they were expected to train and the first was right in front of them.

River ran the course himself first but not before peeling away his top and showing them all up. He was annoyingly unfaltering and quick. The new leader talked some more then announced they’d run it in groups with the first involving Sloane, his ears still pricking up to her name and mind attuned.

Sloane was never athletically inclined. A game of chess, academics, smarts, sure, but not an obstacle course. There was a moment watching her do the course as the others surged ahead where he felt sorry for her. The activity wasn’t very flattering to her and having it demonstrated in front of everyone was embarrassing, no different than him having to draw a portrait and show everyone when it best resembled an 8 year olds painting at best. But then he remembered she was the one that made up a story that he cheated. Maybe this was karma. Like her giant guard dog that was supposedly a man leaving.

Deciding not to get wrapped in his own bitter thoughts, he glanced at the girls sitting on his left, taking in each’s different interpretation to dress for training. Jeans and turtle neck on Fiona, ironic cute sweatshirt on Anissa and rich pristine business from Blair. Each different color schemes too. He allowed himself to chuckle quietly. "You’re like the Powerpuff girls," he noted, turning his attention back to the current runners.

"So, Anissa, since you know our whole story now, who — "

River read out the next group, announcing his name along with Blair who dragged his eyes to her when she got up like some old woman. "Five bucks says I barf before the pool."

Lochlan’s eyes flickered back to Anissa, briefly trying to decipher her at a glance now he had a clear eyeline to her. He offered a smile before Blair tugged on his arm prompting him to leave with her. Or walk her down in one piece at least.

"I’ll be shit, so you'll look great. Chicks will love it."

"Yeah, " he began slowly. "I don’t think you really count." As dickish as it sounded, it was for her own drawn awareness. She hardly counted as competition in her state. After he crossed the finish he was sure he’d catch Blair flopped over one of the jumps or awkwardly tangled in rope groaning. In fact, in her state, his sister would need someone to literally carry her through the whole thing if there were any hope of fully completing the course.

As expected of them, he lined up at the tires. While he was slightly concerned for his sister, she had to know his feverish competitiveness would take over. He never did sports and physical activity in halves.

He swung out his arms and bounced lightly on his feet. He fell into his runner’s stance and when given the green light, he shot off, sailing through the tires deftly one foot after the other weaving in and out. An agility exercise he had done many times before.

The ascending logs were only new in design but they were glorified hurdles or wall climbs essentially. Without the leverage. He adopted River’s technique clearing the first three naturally and climbing atop the fourth to get to the fifth.

Lochlan dropped immediately for the crawl, landing on his forearms with deliberation and breaking into a crawl like he had done it before. And he had, in hasty retreat when a conquest shoved him off the bed to hide and the first pace was scrambling under the bed or making a low retreat to the window.

He slunk up pushing his torso up first when he cleared the crawl then sprang to his feet to approach the rope climb. Lochlan didn’t have time to evaluate it, merely leapt on the rope and got to business, taking long reaches and pull ups to get to the top quicker. He shuffled back down with smaller, controlled but rapid grips one hand quickly exchanging with the other until he could disembark.

Lochlan skimmed across the wavering rope net bridge, keeping his feet on the threads and arms out for balance while his tongue peeked out in concentration. He wobbled a little but ultimately made it across without any hitches. His eyes were wide focused on the goal.

The rope swing was nothing. A small run up and leap, and plant your landing with timing, don’t take the rope with you and it was done. But at this stage he also felt like he should be training for ninja warrior instead.

Puffing, he faced the balance beams. He swallowed in some air and composure for the task then proceeded, placing one foot in front of the other, arms hovering out to stabilize himself. He didn’t linger on them long because over thinking and hesitation was the death of balancing.

He ran and dove in the pool, trained, familiar and strong. He swept back his wet hair when he reached the other side keeping it from his peripheral as he ran at the ladder. He jumped straight on, scaling the enormous obstacle, not daring to lose pace to the fine rhythm he found. He swung his leg over the top beam and climbed in reverse, taking a moment to acquaint himself with the gaps between the logs again before easing into another trusty rhythm.

Lochlan ran hard for the home stretch and crossed the jump almost in toe with others and took a moment with his hands on his knees, trying to heave in gulps of air. While his eyes lifted and he flashed a brief smile to others that finished near him, the one he was waiting for still wasn’t in sight. He glanced beyond the obstructive giant log ladder, straightening up to spy his sister, then looked at River to call it merciful quits. Blair clearly beyond struggled. The assessment was over. She failed.

But a DNF apparently didn’t exist in someone’s mind.

Lochlan winced inside when she fell from the ladder then half assed where others usually conjured the last ounce of energy. Blair eventually crossed though and she almost looked at him before falling to her knees and throwing up. Anyone else and he’d likely grimace or laugh, but instead he approached his sister’s side, bending over beside her despite his legs' protest, calm, collected and he pat her back gently. Not condescending and with no force, but as a simple assurance he was there. It was better to let it out though it didn’t seem a choice either way. Lochlan stretched his neck away from the contents that spilled out of her but stayed close so as not to inhale the smell.

There came a point where she stopped at last but she didn’t make a move to get up and return to the stands. Lochlan waited in anticipation ready to catch her if she tilted off balance or be her support but she remained on all fours that it stretched well past composure time. He looked around, realizing something else was wrong before focusing back on Blair. "Come on, we can’t stay here." People had to run the course yet, but more importantly he didn’t want people to see a Carmichael weak or hang anything over her head. He gently pried her from the ground, his touch always more of an aid than a dictator. Lochlan wrapped an arm around her to support her when she got to her feet but he was always ready to lift her if she needed or preferred. He was only trying to keep her dignity as in tact as possible.

As they made their steady retreat back into the stands with the others, Lochlan looked to the bench he was situated at before and made half a gesture for their companions to meet them with his head. He placed Blair on a bench close to an entrance/exit but away from others, trying for the perk of seclusion but a quick escape if needed.

He gave Blair a once over checking she was fine then his gaze shifted to a space with an intensity that didn’t suit him. His jaw hardened with repressed anger and disappointment, barely biting back the fight he wanted to pick. If people hadn’t been beckoned over and they weren’t in the arena, he’d probably let it fly.

^{interactions ....|.... Blair, Anissa, Fiona ............... mentions ....|....none}

Camp Athens - Closed

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^{B45F06 .....| Arena}

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He was joking. Mostly. He knew it wasn’t Andy’s fault. Well…aside from making this little slice of hell obstacle course.

"Peace is rare at camp. You know that. I can’t guarantee we won’t be interrupted in the future. But I’m not going anywhere, Mase," she assured. He was surprised by her sincerity and soft voice. On one hand he was content she wouldn’t go anywhere. On the other, sad to hear her admittance of how peace was so rare and the restless future it may bring. Her hand wrapped around him and he was led and instructed to sit.

Mason sighed gently looking around as he lowered himself to sit beside her. "Alright, but don’t tell anyone I listened to you just because you said so,” he said, feigning reluctance. As she brought herself closer, he leant toward her and placed a kiss on her shoulder apologetically in case it wasn’t obvious he didn’t care what people thought of him.

"I had every intention of spending all day in bed with you," she whispered into his ear causing the smallest glad smile to form on his lips. His hand subconsciously opened for her as she began her light trail down his arm, then sure enough, into his palm. "Although, after training I will need a shower…" Her fingers slinked between his. He felt it, just took a moment to react to it, closing his fingers around hers absentmindedly as images of Andy naked and wet flooded his mind. Water cascading down his favorite demi-goddess’s sleek body , sometimes soapy, running her body wash over herself. Other glimpses he’d be getting the pleasure to glide soap over her — aw hell, he didn’t care. As long as she was wet and bare, he was there. And so the images rolled on…

Mason leaned his head towards her like he had a secret, keeping his eyes ahead. "I can’t wait for training to be over." He placed their joined hands on her leg where his thumb caressed her there gently, trying his best to keep the thoughts and images she planted at bay but loving to indulge them.

Apparently he spoke too soon. "Good morning everyone. If it wasn't already obvious, I am River, your new leader… And son of Poseidon, if that matters." River took the lead giving the whole spiel about who he was, what happened in the past and what was in store now and all traces of joy, playfulness, amusement and joking was sapped. At least he acknowledged Andy was a good leader. Somewhat.

Then the new big guy approached them with an awkward smile that Mason didn’t bother to reciprocate. It was nothing personal just the amount of cockblocking he did in one day had to be a record. Mason freed their hands guessing he wanted Andy for something. "Do you mind tracking my time?" He held out his equipment to Andy.

Mason rose a brow as surprised as she was. Out of all the people in the crowd, that had to mean River had at least a little respect somewhere for her. "Yeah, sure."

After some brief instructions on what to press, he turned and left to demonstrate the course. It was relatively straight forward, go through the obstacles the way they were intended. Climb, jump, crawl, run. But if the new leader wanted to show and tell, that was his choice entirely.

There was a moment or two as River ran where Mason leaned over to glance at the watch to track how he was doing curiously and sneak glances at Andy checking if she was completely besotted by all the muscles on display and the way he navigated the course with relative ease. Mason wouldn’t have even thought anything of it, if it wasn’t for some other females licking their lips and fanning themselves at the spectacle.

River was evidently fit and created the course so seeing him stagger or nearly fumble at times and finish trying to suck in some air confirmed the course would be worse than it even looked. He headed towards them still trying to catch his breath.

"9 minutes and 37 seconds," Andy revealed.

Mason blew out a breath he was unaware he was holding. That was good results. But every slice of information that came to light in the course seemed to emphasize how shit it would be. Including when he announced they had 15 minutes to complete it. Mason rubbed his forehead and temples, screwing his eyes shut to suppress how fucking stupid he found that 15 minute window for all the people that weren’t into Crossfit or whatever it was and the army rats.

"Alright then. You’ll run the course in groups of five. First up is Sloane, Sylas, Nate, Maylisse and Andy…"

Mason dropped his hand and flicked up a small smile for Andy. She’d do fine. Being a military girl, he was sure it’d be her playground.

Once she got up, he gave her a small tap on the backside for purely encouraging purposes. "Go get ‘em. " He looked her over, appreciating her retreating form with a much smugger smile. Thank you workout clothes for being form fitting. No force in the universe that would make him miss her shower.

Andy didn’t disappoint. In fact she moved through the course with familiarity, each obstacle appearing a little less than it was. He forgot how strong and agile she truly was until he was watching her without fear for his own life or the compulsion to beat a Valis bloody.

Even Mason had to admit a good job when the group completed the obstacle course. Even for Sloane who crossed last out of the five and looked slightly sore and sorry. At least she crossed the finish line.

When his name was called, he sighed. Andy gave him the appearance that he was ready but there was no prepping for this. He pushed off the stone bench and reluctantly headed to the start line.

"Good luck guys!" Mason suppressed an eye roll. He hoped the course burned the energy and perkiness out of her.

Looking along the line, his group happened to be a bunch of females but before any automatic thought entered his head like ‘this should be easy’, he had witnessed plenty of girls that were beasts so he shut down any relaxation or contentment. No need to go easy.

When they were given the go, Mason ran up to the tires, unfortunately just not as quick as another demigod. He looked down to focus on lifting his leg enough to clear each tire and his next foot placement. Next were the logs where he appeared to close some gap by clearing them well enough with a wobble and stagger or two but nothing he couldn’t recover from. He tried to run ahead but that damn neon suit entered his vision again as he got down to crawl. Crawling and contorting wasn’t his specialty so he wasn’t surprised by the other girls creeping up. Some struggled at the climb though and while he had half a mind to lift some of them up to stop the painful display, there was ‘no helping’, and he’d be better focusing on his own result anyway. Mason jumped up getting as high as he could for a headstart on the rope before ascending to the top then buffering himself back down. The bridge looked simple but it persisted on jerking out from under him. The swing was handled okay. Better if there wasn’t some ridiculous gleeful laughter right on him. On the beams he prayed for her to fall as he navigated across it with his arms out and a slight wobble.

"Ow!"

Even through heavy breathing he smiled quickly as he disembarked the last sloped beam before tackling the pool. He could hear the others dive in after him but all he could do was keep his rhythm of stroking and kicking.

As he climbed up the ladder, the rainbow appeared in his peripheral again. Mason had half a mind to yank her down, sure she’d land on her feet like a cat. While sabotage wasn’t a stated rule, he was sure it was at least heavily frowned upon. For now he kept pushing up. Arms grabbing and pulling, legs stepping and propelling upwards, unable to find a fluent, easy rhythm.

She got in front on the descent and the last leg of the course. She took off with impeccable speed, Mason trying to match her pace but failing, finishing his leap shortly behind her.

He took a few steps away from the finish, and, only because Nelly did, he turned and waited for the rest of the group to complete the course. A silent obligation. Nelly’s cheerleading forced Mason a few extra steps away as he panted for breath. A pale blonde followed, then the brunette.

"Come on, you can do it!" Nelly clapped and cheered some more.

"She clearly didn’t work hard enough," Mason remarked offhandedly, finding himself near River. The kid of Poseidon probably didn’t get how much it would mean to exhaust Nelly and turn off her chirping for a few minutes.

Seeing he was the wrong target audience, Mason wandered away watching the last red head, unsure if she liked Nelly’s cheering, finding it genuinely encouraging and motivating or embarrassing or condescending. If he got whooped and cheered in the PACER test for being generally unimpressive…He’d be less than pleased. But some people found it nice he guessed.

^{interactions ....|.... Andy, River (briefly) ............... mentions ....|.... Nelly, Rae, Sofia, Callista}

Camp Athens - Closed

---

^{8e0047........|....His Cabin > Arena}

---

He heard the announcement but only felt capable of staring up at the ceiling. After months present that now rolled onto the new year, he still had no idea how to handle camp or what to properly make of anything and anyone.

As he laid there he found less and less motivation to get out of bed. Facing hungover Blair, Fiona’s potential taunting, Veronica’s random hotness. There was no way he couldn’t look at her and not wonder what possessed her. Lochlan probably was just a lucky draw for her and he was rarely one to overthink but…when it came from one of camp’s most appealing he had to wonder and question things.

Surprised in himself and his own autopilot abilities, he dragged himself out of bed and headed downstairs for a glass of water and painkillers for a headache brewing or the near future one he was about to have. Once they washed down, he wandered back upstairs for a steamy shower taking his time under the hot water with his own thoughts and privacy and comfort. Only to have to face the cold and potentially sweat later. So before he could get completely carried away and dare to enjoy another day to himself as he had the past couple months, he had to give up the warmth of the shower. With a towel secured around his waist he padded out from the bathroom to his closet half expecting it to be in disarray after Blair already rifled through it and laid out some clothes for him but there was no such luck. Because she was a mess last night. Lochlan snorted. He’d be surprised if she was able to even dress herself today.

But he was warned to dress for the occasion. The announcement said as much. So he dressed as if he was going to gym.

Lochlan looked himself over in the full length mirror, clapped his hands together and trotted downstairs for breakfast.

Nothing frisky. Toast, eggs, bacon, spinach. Small protein shake. A little something to help put a pep in his step and manage the training ahead. Maybe if he genuinely applied himself and appealed to this assistant coach of the gods that was dubbed leader of Camp Athens, it would reach Hera. Though he didn’t know if River communicated closely with the gods or if they even bothered to gossip. But if he could see her again…Lochlan just wanted talk to her and get some clarity. There was too much speculation and not enough certainty, almost his whole life and that tended to creep under a guy’s skin. Why did his dad seem to resent him from day dot but not ditch him? Why did he have the knee jerk reaction to lie to everyone? Why and what was camp’s purpose exactly and how did he fit into the hazardous camp?

Until that blind hope meeting, theories and speculation was all he had.

He dumped his dishes in the sink, filled up a bottle of water and grabbed a jacket for the cold outside. Personally, Lochlan could see their drill sergeant stripping them and making them run bare in the snow for ‘endurance’ and ‘toughness’. All the more reason he should divulge in comfort in the meantime.

Stepping through the significantly warmer arena, Lochlan gave a look around for seat selection. He spotted that familiar, too stunning brunette first, Veronica, conversing with others and threw her a wink before spotting a purple fitted faceless girl lying down with her head buried under a jacket that was inevitably his sister. He headed for Blair and sat beside her silently and tucked the bottle of water between her arm and body.

"I haven’t seen you like that in a while. You manage to get to your own cabin in one piece?" He wouldn’t have been surprised if she stumbled into someone else’s cabin and just crashed there literally. But he wasn't one to judge. He didn't care about the hows, whos and whys, as long as she didn't wind up ill or passed out outside somewhere.

^{interactions ....|.... Blair ............... mentions ....|....Veronica, Fiona}

Camp Athens - Closed

---

^{B45F06 ..... | ..... Andy's Cabin > Arena}

---

A tired lazy smirk touched his lips as Andy rolled over towards him. Then more knocks. Then she left the bed. "Andy," he grumbled, his voice thick with sleep as she retreated from the warm bed to tend to the persistent visitor. Mason’s heavy eyes squinted after her and he smuggled out a stretch as he rotated on his back and rested one arm behind his head.

Sleeping with her in his arms was a dream but it made him a little crampy.

While he was torn between curiosity and perving on Andy in his shirt, his eyes fell closed again for more sleep but Andy’s cabin was tiny. Mason frowned having no choice but for their exchange to drop in and out. He ran a hand down his face as Andy asked what help he needed and obliged because of course she would. She wasn’t a people pleaser but she was too good. She wasn’t the leader anymore, let the guy sort it out himself or at least ask literally any other demigod spawn. Someone he wasn’t spooning and excited to see in the morning.

But even his grumpy thoughts couldn’t keep him tuned and sleep took a hold of him again.

"Good morning campers. This is your new leader, River, speaking. It is currently 7:30 a.m. on January 1st. Your first training will begin in one hour at 8:30 a.m. in the arena. Please arrive promptly and dress accordingly." Back to sleep for five fucking minutes. This was a joke. This was supposed to be the beginning of the new year, everyone had a great night, it was early in the morning. No.

Except there was still something missing. Mason rubbed his eyes, helping clear the sleep in search for her.

He shifted his sights on Andy as she sat beside him enjoying the feel of her fingers through his hair. "I have to go." Ugh. He didn’t dream it. This morning seemed to get worse. His arm draped over her legs as she turned his head placing a kiss on his lips."Don’t oversleep," she said against his lips and kissed him again that he only just managed to pucker up to.

"If it brings you back here I might have to." He couldn’t even hide the sly smile he had. But before he could coax her back to bed where she belonged, she drew away.

She soldiered on with her self-inflicted duties while he contemplated going back to sleep. Mason sprawled out, tossed and turned but found himself unable to drift back off to dreamland to the point he argued with himself why he was bothering.

He spied some clothes left on the bedside table for him and smiled. She was already looking out for him. All he was missing was the breakfast in bed and she’d be wife material. He sat himself on the edge of the bed and begrudgingly rose to his feet to get dressed and make himself a coffee in preparation for training at 8:30. Waking up at that time was more acceptable but being ready for training by 8:30 was bullshit.

------------------------------------------------------

Mason saw Andy sleeping or attempting to sleep in the growing arena. He took the steps in long strides until he was standing before her and ran a single finger up her leg, fully accepting the odds of her swinging at him in retaliation. Although it didn't mean he wouldn't try to dodge it.

As easy as it was to smile at the apple of his eye there was another conversation he wanted to have with her. "So," he began with a quick glance around the arena. "Are you ever gonna let me sleep with you without any morning interruptions?" His eyes landed on her. At the moment they were going two for two and he would love to wake up to a normal morning with her.

^{interactions ....|.... Andy ............... mentions ....|.... River}

---

---

^{47815a....|.... Cabin > Arena}

---

Daniels’ night had mostly been comprised of getting to know a particular daughter of Zeus and conning her to dance with him. While a little afraid for his feet’s safety there weren’t any horrible collisions or consequences, except potentially on her end for trying to throw her around like a swing dancer at one point. But otherwise he thought things went pretty smoothy. Behavior wise anyway.

It was a nice PG atmosphere and chat the whole time. No funny business via excessive flirting or conjurations. He watched the fireworks, had a celebratory drink, bidded Rosalia goodnight hen went to his cabin and nodded off with ease unburdened by either anxiety or excitement. Which somewhere in he midst left him disappointed. He didn’t feel like himself whether a consequence of Hecate’s magic or the age and events of camp wearing on him. Something felt void. The amount of fresh blood to camp would’ve once delighted him. He would’ve ping ponged between social groups. All the fun prospects and chaos he could bring to some unsuspecting demigods was missing.

To say he was in a funk felt somewhat an understatement. Still, he went through the motions. Got up when the announcement came on, got prepared for the mentioned training and began the trek to the arena.

"Morning." Along his travels he almost absent mindedly passed one of the familiar red-headed women in a wool coat strutting in the opposite direction. Almost.

Daniel pulled himself up and started backing up to walk in step with her. Not quite the right fit coat, open heels and bare legs from what he could see. Which meant, "Let me guess, you were robbed. Now how does one get retribution for that?" He gave a crooked grin.

Daniel wasn’t really that daft but he imagined Evelyn wouldn’t like the alternative in her face nor questions. Mistakes, heat of the moment, fun flings, everyone was prone to it. However fascinating as he was sure to find the tale and reply, she clearly had changing to do and he wasn’t gonna be a creep walking in reverse to her cabin uninvited.

He nodded ahead. "See you at the arena. And hey, don’t be late. " He pointed a sharp finger for emphasis then cackled at his own joke and resumed his journey.

Aside from her he was surprised at the lack of bustle about camp given there were more bodies than he cared to count at the party last night. Of course one theory was that there were a lot of hungover people still sleeping in until the last minute or people had left for the arena earlier with everyone leaving at extremely scattered times. Still, it was strange.

Daniel collapsed into any old spot with a huff and waited for this thing to get underway. At least he wasn't stressing at the last minute he supposed.

^{interactions ....|.... Evelyn ............... mentions ....|.... Rosalia}

Camp Athens - Closed

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^{8e0047....|.... outfit ....|....party}

---

Lochlan gave a small nod hearing Evelyn’s explanation and it could’ve been played for humble if he wiped the smirk from his face. However, it only proved harder to rid his smug attitude when her escape was foiled by Nelly and the team she dragged along with her including his half sister.

While he perked up and prepared for a dashing performance of social charisma with a winning smile he only managed a greeting. "Not at all. You all look great." He spared a glance at Fiona sure as much as she might’ve smelled the bullshit she’d let it go. They did look good but it was nothing overly special or exciting.

Nelly charged ahead talking out loud, jumping over bars, making drinks while Evelyn was laying on some charm of her own. “Well, the good news is with Nelly and Fiona as your guides you’re already well versed, socially anyway.” Or was it fact? He glanced at her briefly in the corner of his eye and by that time it was Nelly steering the conversation again, filling silences as she pushed some glasses forward.

He couldn’t see why not even though he really ought to be more tentative in what red heads do to his drink. He sipped at it and Nelly was gone like the wind, announcing she had something to do to tie over the New Year.

Without her they all seemed to take refuge in their drinks or by looking elsewhere. Lochlan waited for anyone to pep up with anything for good conversation but he wasn’t going to be the guy who talked out loud without reception.

The awkwardness didn’t seem drastically long saved by the display of fireworks. Lochlan watched and granted camp a few more points from absolute crap hole for the effort, magnetized to the colors that exploded in the sky. That’s when he was shouldered by Sylas on his path to Evelyn. Lochlan laughed a cold ironic laugh slowly bringing his body back into the position he wanted. Sylas was always the jerk that had to make himself known and give Lochlan a run for his money. Beyond that, he didn’t react. He did try to watch without watching though.

However, he had his own problems. Someone pushed him against the bar and Lochlan held up his hands facing a stunning brunette. He would’ve admired her if he knew what the hell he’d done to deserve her bold presence. There was a moment they both seemed confused, then she smiled in a way Lochlan knew good things were going to come of it. She pulled him towards her and he grabbed her waist to steady himself as he was dragged into an unsuspected kiss. Quickly his hands left her to prove he wasn’t steering the ship or keeping her there. Not to be mistaken for not enjoying the new company but this was a rarity.

She drew back, Lochlan’s eyes automatically drifting to her inviting lips. When she licked over his with a ”Happy New Year,” he smirked. Then she fled.

Lochlan watched bewildered slowly leaning against the bar for full support. He had no idea what happened. Did he accidentally compel the girl to kiss him and that’s why she made off terrified? Did his eyes turn to an untrustworthy lust too quickly? Alternatively, he considered all demigod women were particularly complicated.

Luckily his unofficial conscience was there. "Ye might wanna chase after her, Loch," Fiona advised nodding after Veronica. Good, so she saw that too right? Instead of more direction, for instance, telling him what actually happened, she began to sing. ”Black is the colour of my true love's hair, Her lips are like some roses fair, She's the sweetest smile, And the gentlest hands, I love the ground, Whereon she stands.”

His eyes hardened at the romanticized song but he waved a hand dismissively. He took a few steps away to take Fiona’s advice and chase Veronica, before noticing Blair stumble from her stool only to be surprised she hadn’t face planted yet. Then he looked over his shoulder at Fiona disappearing with the same elegance. Only he had more faith in Fiona’s tolerance for alcohol and how she’d pull up than Blair's.

Chasing after a girl with two drunk siblings didn’t feel right. Which was annoying. Because that girl had model-like beauty and lush lips and tongue.

Due to his sisters’ annoyance and inconvenience, he didn’t help them. That’s right he was striking from obligatory brother duties. But he didn't pursue Veronica either. Lochlan trudged his way back to his cabin alone in defiance with a cleanish conscience sure to regret not chasing the insanely attractive woman later. Plus he was in no state to unravel something complicated.

Mysterious could wait a day.

^{interactions ....|.... Evelyn, Fiona, Nelly, Veronica ............... mentions ....|....Sylas, Blair}

Camp Athens - Closed

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^{851f1f....|.... Outfit ....|.... party}

---

Sloane mentioned that she’d also reject Olympus as a permanent residence. It was likely just chit-chat and helping to make conversation but it gave him comfort and relief as if she’d otherwise turn and call him an idiot. She did suggest they both might be dumb but her points were completely and humbly human. Duke smiled appreciating her candor and easiness. “Exactly.”

However, it wasn’t long lasting as the conversation rolled on to goodbyes and Alex. "But didn’t she like you?"

Duke cleared his throat unsure how to tackle her query. Apparently Alex’s crush had become public news, not that she was ever subtle or shy about it but still he could hope it swept under the radar. Duke always looked at it as a more naive doe-eyed school girl crush. She wasn’t always hooked on him, she shot her shot in other directions. He managed to croak the beginning of a reply.

"Sorry, that’s none of my business," Sloane added.

So far they had been honest and open with each other and pried on the borders of hard topics and he didn’t want to shut her down. “No, it’s okay. Alex is – was a fairly selfish and impulsive person. So while she may have liked me” he couldn’t bring himself to outright say she did even when it was painfully obvious. “Her needs and wants are gonna come first. And you know to a degree we all do it and owe a little something to ourselves.” He gave a small shrug. Alex chose what she thought was best or easiest or whatever for her. The Valises’ great ideas to become proteges was their business. Naïve and questionable but their own right.

"I don’t know if I’m the most reliable source for what women find attractive," Sloane said, making Duke crack another easy smile. Why wouldn’t she? She was just as much a woman as any of the others. "I suppose scars are kind of like tattoos. They tell a story, which makes them interesting." She leaned forward giving his small cut a look over. "I think it suits you."

Duke glanced away avoiding her eyes for a moment to compose himself from a compliment or wait for the punchline. Eventually his eyes rested back on her and he gave a small nod as thanks. It didn’t seem entirely appropriate to respond with how he thought she looked nice. Not so randomly and this deep into a good conversation anyway. He diverted to light teasing about her liking a rougher type and scarred.

“I guess it’d seem that way, wouldn’t it?" she replied. Duke’s opened his palms in small surrender. He didn’t know her history aside from Liam and even if she did fall into a type, he didn’t mean to make fun of her. "In my defense, they seek me out… And I fall for their nice acts. I guess I’m gullible."

Before he could think better of it, Duke placed a hand sympathetically on her shoulder – which was petite under his hand but he meant it comfortingly. Some people made mistakes and others played a game too well. He let his hand fall in his lap. “You’ve got a good heart, that’s all. They’ll start weighing things out in time.” A finger drifted in the air between her forehead and chest.

Hardly a love coach or an inspiring talker, they returned to more comfortable topic where Sloane showed and told her scar that was infinitely more obvious and intense than his. "Yeah, but yours adds to the whole rugged thing," she said with a vague gesture to him. "Mine is like those dumb female protagonists in werewolf books who are always like ‘No, he would never hurt me.’ Then this happens."

Duke’s brows furrowed in confusion then cocked his head unsure where she was going very elaborately and a smile wavered at his lips suppressing a laugh.

"You probably have no idea what I’m talking about."

Duke chuckled and shook his head. “Not at all,” he admitted, usually afraid to be perceived as dumb and not ‘in the know’. “You’ve got a werewolf claw scar?” he guessed, amused. “Don’t worry, it makes you look pretty tough. Enduring.” He smiled. While he wasn’t sure Sloane enjoyed having scars they were there for now and they were her own proof of perseverance.

"This may come as a shock, but I hate parties," she confessed. "I planned on just staying in for the night but I was coerced into coming. And then I got burnt for it. I’m obviously a terrible judge of character," she laughed. "If you see anyone enjoying my company, avoid them like the plague. They’re bad news."

He rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly. Not just at her unfortunate streak with people in camp. He wasn’t sure he could do much about that but that last bit. “I sort of like your company,” he admitted.

Still, she didn’t run off or retreat in any way. She stood there scanning the activities. "I used to figure skate as a child…" Duke’s brows rose waiting for the final decision, sooner expecting her to rest on ice skating. That’s generally how it went. Someone hadn’t done something in such a long time, it was good and freeing to reunite with an old hobby. "But considering the party is nearly over." Duke’s brows dropped.

"If you need to go do saving," she continued before he could pick up why they or she couldn’t ice skate. Duke followed her nod towards Fiona then looked back at her. "You’ve already saved me from social embarrassment. It’d be rude of me to hog your services."

Duke looked back at the trio of Nelly, Fiona and the new man that made the move towards some more company. He waved a hand dismissively, nearly scoffing. “She can handle herself.” If Fiona had enough she’d stumble away or make it known in some fashion or another. “But you,” Duke looked Sloane over and smiled. “Can I ask who you’re hiding from?” It felt like he was pushing his luck and he didn’t mean it intrudingly but by her own telling, people who liked her and likely coerced her out was worth concern.

Duke sighed out simply because it had been a long day and he wasn’t about to let that elephant sit between them. He glanced at the clock. “If you’ve had enough I’ll walk you to your cabin. Or we could just walk?” Immediately, he heard how that might’ve sounded and raised his hands. There was no ulterior motive or doubting Sloane’s abilities to look after herself. “I’m sure you can walk yourself. Especially next to a few other people,” he admitted with a quick glance around, trying not to linger on the people who struggled to stand upright. “I just wanna get away before the midnight festivities.” Public displays of affection were durable but not preferred. Besides, a nice stroll couldn’t do any harm.

He took her pace and lead. He was comfortable with conversation or silence. As he learned quickly it was one of the benefits of Sloane’s company.

His gaze slipped to the dog at Sloane’s heels. “You know how big he’s gonna get? If you need a bed or doggy door for him I’m happy to help.” It wasn’t the most architectural or blacksmithy thing but if it could help her and an innocent animal...

Fireworks took off into the air giving Duke pause to watch the red and gold light show. His eyes fell back on Sloane with a content smile. Sometimes camp could be beautiful. Rarely, admittedly but it was important to soak in the good moments. Duke looked at Rocco again and crouched to show the back of his hand and gain a sniff of approval. When he earned an ok, he scooped the puppy up, directing his wet nose at Sloane. "Only guy you need to spend the new year with."

^{interactions ....|.... Sloane ............... mentions ....|.... Fiona, Nelly, Morne}

Camp Athens - Closed

---

^{851f1f....|.... Outfit ....|.... party}

---

"You’ve gone to Olympus with them before, haven’t you? Did they not invite you this time?"

Duke averted his gaze uncomfortably. “I did,” he admitted. “But I thought it was more of a vacation or reward opposed to scouting for a permanent residence,” he said, embarrassed. It only made him look the fool. “For somebody who’s supposed to be inherently smart, that was dumb on my part.” He tried a smile that was too stiff. As much as he tried to make light of it, he was ashamed. “I got invited,” he answered her next part and shook his head. Alex had tried to plead with him but he didn’t budge. “Couldn’t bring myself to leave camp behind with it’s whole…intended purpose.”

He expected Sloane to withdraw at his intrusive question and though she was tense for a moment, she seemed to pay it genuine thought and be candid with him which he appreciated.

"I think I did. He was the only friend I had since I came to camp. He looked after me." While her gaze was diverted, Duke scanned her and gave an understanding nod. While Sloane had shown she could look after herself as he had seen first hand, some reinforcement always helped and was simply comforting to have. It was nice to be cared for. "Only as a friend though. He left before it could grow into anything more."

Should he offer apologies that it couldn’t bloom into anything more? No. Duke just let it be without further prying and sympathies though of course he was sorry for the girl.

"Did they at least say goodbye to you?" Sloane asked next, looking at him. She even furrowed her brows with some concern. "Liam was gone when I woke up… Just left a note behind."

Duke tilted his head side to side. A note was rough but they both had been through it. “Sort of. I guess I got the ultimatum when Alex asked if I would go with them.”

When Duke mentioned his scar, she leaned in slightly, as if to appropriately examine his mark making Duke smirk. "You’re lucky to be alive. What is it they say? ‘Chicks love scars’?"

“Do they?” He asked, his brows furrowing in mock confusion. Although, stereotype aside, he guessed he was genuinely half curious if Sloane, being a chick ‘loved scars’.

"Could say you got in scrape over a jilted lover or something. Really build up a tough, bad boy vibe. I’m sure some people here would be happy to add to your scar collection."

Duke inhaled deeply. “Yeah, there’s too many of those around,” he added with a laugh. There were too many people eager to lunge into violence and inflict pain upon another at camp. Same as he was sure there was enough tough, bad boys around. “But if that’s your type...” He jested innocently with a shrug unaware of Sloane’s history.

Eager to move on or continue to socialize, "I had a harpy smack me into some trees and drop me in the lake," she offered up. "And something with very sharp claws—" Sloane revealed her scar hidden beneath her hair and top. "—I didn’t get to see what it was."

Duke studied her more serious mark with genuine interest, but tried not to stare so as to make her uncomfortable. Most chicks didn’t exactly dig scars on themselves. Briefly, he caught himself blaming Liam for not taking better care of her. He gave a neutral, "Hmm, " sound as if deeply pondering it. "I wish you showed me yours first. Putting me to shame like that. " He tried to keep things light for both their benefit. They had already been through enough abandonment and wars.

"No one warned me that camp is actually the worst." She chuckled. A sound rare but welcome.

Duke’s smile danced with a blend of amusement and warmth. "It’s pretty bad, " he agreed. "But it has it’s benefits."

He gingerly crept his feet free from Rocco and stood to clear plates and stretch his legs that had been sitting for most the party. Before he could expand on said benefits and keep the conversation rolling and invite Sloane to walk and talk with him, Fiona came right up to him. "Hey, Duke,” She leant face first into his shoulder, clearly sulking. "Nell’s forcing me ta be sociable with a new kid, save me at some point...Please?”

Duke immediately shot a glance to Sloane and smiled a little nervously. This was not their normal requests from one another and it took a second for Fiona to even notice Sloane there.

"We’ll see what we can do, " he said, only because it was easier to indulge her sometimes than any other reply.

For a moment, he watched Fiona stumble her way back to the party she had requested rescuing from. All she had to do was sit back and let Nelly be the pleasant one and driver of conversation and force a smile at the dude occasionally. For a good impression anyway. Not that Fiona aimed to be a people pleaser.

With that same wry smile, Duke turned back to Sloane. "Anything you wanted to get off the bucket list?" He gestured to the activities while they were available. He wasn’t sure how quick Andy’s conjurations would vanish once midnight hit.

^{interactions ....|.... Sloane, Fiona ............... mentions ....|.... Nelly, Morne}