Hera's Daughter

"I mean, sure, she'd always been cute, but she was starting to be seriously beautiful." - Percy Jackson on page 70 of chapter four (4).

And it got me thinking back to the first book-Percy Jackson: The lighting Thief-where he said something abouy her curls being pretty like a princess. That always stuck. I don't know why.

". . .and a pretty girl, her blond hair curled like a princess’s." - Percy Jackson on page 56 of chapter four (4) (Coincidence? I think not!)

(̶A̶ ̶l̶i̶t̶t̶l̶e̶ ̶r̶a̶n̶t̶,̶ ̶s̶o̶r̶r̶y̶.̶)̶ Disclaimer! So, unlike the last chapter, I finish reading the book. I'm actually almost done with the fourth book. I'm so in with the tension with Annabeth and Rachel. She's so nonchalant about everything and Annabeth is just making an angry face at her and Percy. 

Also, I love the respect Calypso had for Pery and telling him that she was trying to keep her distance. Also, "You talk in your sleep.", and "Yes. Who is Annabeth?" if Percy isn't Odysseus reincarnated I don't know who he is. (Epic: The Musical - "Did you know you talk in your sleep?", and "Tell me though, who's Penelope?" - Epic Calypso)

And I have zero clue why I was cursing Calypso out saying she was keeping him away from Annabeth. My brain was stuck with Epic Calypso and I should be shamed for it. Anyway, now that that is out of the way, Bianca...

I posted on Tumblr on my account not long ago right after I read Bianca's death (which I cried for a long time and it didn't help about Zoë. Speaking of, why didn't Percy tell Capypso her sister was dead? I mean I think she would have guessed since he speaks of her in a past tense. I think. I can't remember. (🎶Remember them, we're the ones who carry on, remember them--🎶)) About how I wanted her to come back because Sally died and Tayson died but they came back because they weren't really dead and stuff. But now all I can think about is what a terrible sister that makes her in my eyes.

Yes, she's a great sister. I'm not fighting you in that. But I, as an older and eldest sister/sibling would never choose to leave my younger sister/s in the care of a (good and kind) stranger for immortality which wasn't even immortality. She still died. I thought you'd be immortal and not die unless you fail in battle. When did Bianca fail!? Anyway, and the way she just left him. Left him to join strangers! Yeah, no. Also, why are you saying, "Hello, Percy." when Nico was the one who summoned you? Also, he's your brother! And as Percy said, that must have stung. If I were in Nico's shoes, yes, I would want Percy dead but also understand. I'd probably hate him for a while but then I would give up on him and tell him it wasn't his fault. And also, I wouldn't want to bring my sister if she left me to a stranger! I would be laughing in my bedroom, tears falling down my face as I cursed her out for abandoning me. 

Expecting Visitors and Expecting A Betrayal

After my long conversation with Annabeth, I walked around campus. I didn't want to go to the cabins just yet. ❝Misses Kila-Mary,❞ I heard a voice say, along with trotting noises.

I cleared my throat, totally not practicing what I would say. I turned around with a smile, my hands clasped in front of me. ❝Hi,❞ I simply settled, which made me curse myself in my head. I wanted to say more, really, I did. I'm just not a big fan of chatting.

But good for me that "Mr. Brunner" knew that. See (read), I'm using air quotes because that's not his real name. ❝It's good to see you. Have the other two made it?❞ He asked, leaning closer, speaking in a quieter tone matching mine as his hands were clasped behind him.

❝I don't know.❞ I shrugged, my eyes looking around for a moment before settling back on him. ❝But they should be here in a few.❞ I finished it at that, I could have said "few minutes, hours, days," truth be told I had no idea when they were coming.

He nodded, leaning back, his gaze lingering at the sky momentarily. As if he expected something to appear. He wasn't looking above my head, just at the sky. ❝Well, I'm sure they will be arriving anytime soon. Please make yourself at home.❞ He smiled down at me making me nod my head.

He turned his heels (hooves) around, making me back up to give him room. ❝I will, thanks, Chiron.❞ I raised my hand up, waving lightly at him. My four fingers hit my palm as I did so. I turned around with an exhale, truly I didn't want to make this place my home. I never stayed here long.

I walked around the place, I really stayed near the entrance of the place. I noticed how two - obviously Aphrodite kids - whispered among themselves as they sat under a three sat on a blanket. I really didn't want to assume a thing but. . .

Can you blame me when they are giggling and touching each other? That's just weird. Let's hope they aren't mortal blood-related siblings. Either way, I turned a blind eye. Pretty sure nobody cares since an Aphrodite kid could date a Hephestus kid and the world doesn't bat an eye because the gods "don't have DNA."

That's absurd.

I sighed, walking back to the entrance, I could wait at the hill with Thalia but I didn't want to come across the guy in the Big House. I sat on a rock, shifting my duffel bag on my lap. I unzipped a side bag, inside was a water bottle and a container of pills labeled in sloppy small caps at the very top of the tape "ᴏɴᴄᴇ ᴀ ᴡᴇᴇᴋ, ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ᴡᴇᴅɴᴇꜱᴅᴀʏ!!!"

I chuckled, moving the container with a red lid aside. I smiled softly at a picture of my family. Things were moving so fast, that I'm pretty sure I had no idea what to do next. I tucked the picture in the inner pocket of my jacket. I unzipped the main bag, taking out a calender. I scanned over it, puckering my lips and moving them to the side.

I nodded, seeing what day we were. Sunday. That's about right. VHS has Sunday school for those who missed too many school days — also called Summer School — and want to make sure their attendance is on point or don’t want to fail this school year. I just went because ‘Kayla missed too many days. And guess who decided to join us? I'm kidding I begged Riley to join.

I mean I could have just stayed home but my summers as really boring. And I needed inspiration for a book idea. Yeah, being with those two gives me inspiration. Also, that school was full. I think all the students failed or missed too many days of school. Oh, never mind. You don’t care.

I counted how many pills I had and in total, I had twenty (20). I had to do a little mental math but realized that was a waste of time. Conclusion; I have 20 weeks' worth of pills. Excellent. I put the calendar down, narrowing my eyes at the sun as I tried to figure out what time it was.

I had no idea how long I sat on that rock, but the sun was going down. I didn't want to settle in before my friends, but it looked like I had to choice. Just as I was about to stand up, I got my body slammed to the ground. I yelped as me and the person hit the ground.

❝Rileyanna!❞ Came the voice of my cousin as she came to a stop. She bent forward, placing her hands on her knees. She exhaled as I turned my head to Riley. Who was hugging me with the biggest smile. ❝Eeeeeeeee!❞ She squealed in my ear as I tried to sit up. ❝Rey—Riley!❞ I patted her hand around my neck, using my right hand to fix my duffel.

❝Have you been waiting for us this entire time?❞ ‘Kayla asked, straightening with an exhale. She furrowed her brows, flipping her black braids behind her back. I noticed she put her braids in a high ponytail. I liked the look, what I didn't like was her girlfriend all over me! ❝Babes, get your girlfriend and bestie away from me so I can breathe.❞ I said, my brows furrowed as I leaned my head to Riley's cheek.

‘Kayla scoffed at me, ❝Why she my bestie when she do crap like this?❞ She placed her hands on her waists. ❝Do you want her to be my girlfriend too, huh?❞

‘Kayla scoffed and grabbed Riley by her forearm, dragging the whining girl up. I exhaled, standing up and dusting my clothes. I look up at ‘Kayla, the black girl patting the blonde fifteen-year-old (15yo) on the back.

❝You know, about time ya'll showed up.❞ I said, crossing my arms and stepping forward. ❝My mom had to go to the hospital,❞ ‘Kayla said, looking at me as Riley straightened, she must have been there.

"Oh," was all I could say as I fixed my duffel bag. ❝Is she going to be okay?❞ I tilted my head, brows furrowing sadly. ❝Doctor said it was a minor thing, she'll be fine.❞ She sighed, looking down at Riley. She smiled, although, not reaching her eyes.

❝Right, how about we get settled in our cabins?❞ Riley suggested, trying to take some tension off the air. I'm thankful for that, and I'm pretty sure Kayla is too. The three of us made our way to the cabins, passing through the canoe river, it was fun pushing Riley in, too bad she was saved.

We made it to the cabins, walking slowly. ❝And that's all Annabeth told me.❞ I said, finishing telling them about the boy in the Big House.

❝Oh, wow,❞ Riley said, the muscular female stopping in front of the Apollo cabin. ❝Poor guy.❞ She turned to her cabin, tired as the sun settled. ❝Well, ladies, it has been a pleasure.❞ She turned to the two of us, walking backward.

❝Yeah, okay, night, babe.❞ Mc'Kayla said, walking forward as Riley stopped walking. The two shared a chaste kiss and I turned away, going to the Hermes cabin.

I thought about the new camper. Just this morning he had been fighting with a Minotaur. I don't know why many people made such a big deal of him defeating it. Did they have a death wish?

Urgh, I feel so angry at the gods. They are the worst. Someday — and I wish I had wished this some other day — someone will rise against them. And I want to be there when it happens.

Oh, I just want to rip Athena and Poseidon in two. Stab them with their own weapons. Oh, and don't get me started with Zeus. That cheater. All the divine deities as fucking cheaters. No one is safe from that crime.

No one. . .

❝Whatcha thinkin', love?❞ Mc'Kayla said, bringing me back from my ploy.

I thought for a moment. I looked around the dark campsite, we were the only few people making their way back to their cabins. ❝Have you. . .❞ I cleared my throat, clasping my hands in front of me.

I turned my head to her, ❝Have you ever thought about overthrowing the gods?❞ I whispered, scared someone would hear me.

Mc'Kayla stared at me before turning her head to her right. ❝No,❞ she simply said and walked ahead.

We entered the cabin 11. I made my way to the corner and sat on my sleeping bag, Mc'Kayla got comfy on her sleeping bag next to a bunk bed.

I thought about her answer. It wasn't convincing. She had definitely thought about it.

The next morning, Luke came to talk to the two of us. He told us what we missed since the last time we were here. Which was last year's summer. My dad had to work somewhere off in New York and I didn't want to move.

"And just like usual, we'll practice our sword skills at noon." He spared me a glance as he made his way back to the cabins. Mc'Kayla chuckled, covering her mouth as she glanced at me.

I didn't like sword fighting. It was the worst. They didn't allow me not to participate. Chiron says it's good for me. Those skills will keep me alive. And Luke says I'll need them for the future. Whatever that means. Totally not menacing, Luke.

Totally.

I sighed and rolled my eyes as I followed. ❝Hey,❞ I whispered to ‘Kayla. She looked down at me and rose a brow. ❝Has anybody checked on the kid who lost his mom?❞ Mc’Kayla shook her head.

She looked forward, ❝No, but I got new intel. It doesn’t involve him but. . .❞ she glared at Luke’s head then looked down, her face turning into a doubtful sadness. ❝. . .we definitely need to know. After today, we call Riley and go to the woods.❞ She looked back up and walked ahead.

I blinked as I watched her leave. Well, that was weird. I followed, quickly catching up. Like looked back to the two of us, he rose a brow but I just kept looking forward as ‘Kayla hurried off.

❝Is—❞

❝She’s fine.❞ I interrupted him before he could ask. ❝She and Riley had a fight last night. She was tired, the sun was down, they’ll be fine.❞ I shrugged, I made sure I was convincing. Yesterday not many people were out so who could testify for me lying?

He nodded. The rest of the day was the same as last summers. I did get beaten at noon, though. ❝Urgh!❞ I groaned, being thrown to a tree. Riley laughed, putting her bow down. I reached up and took the arrow from my sleeve. I threw it to the side, it hit the tree next to me. It yelped and out came a girl. She groaned and looked at me, her hand son her hips.

The arrow pierced the ground. I said I was sorry and she huffed and went back to being a tree. I hissed and stood up. ❝Where’s Kay-Kay?❞ Riley asked, walking to me as I met her halfway. ❝And why is Luke asking me if Mc’Kayla and I are okay?❞

I didn’t have an answer for that. ❝I had to make up a lie for Kay. She was acting strange and mad at him. I mean she was giggling this morning and they seemed fine. And then bam!❞ I made an explosion movement with my hands. ❝She’s glaring at him. So I had to come up with something. Maybe she saw you walking around camp and it soured her mood?❞ I shrugged.

Her mouth was agape. ❝Sera!❞

❝I—❞

❝Sera!❞ I turned to my left, Mc’Kayla came running forward. ❝Riley,❞ her voice softened.

❝Hey,❞ Riley waved, a hand to her hip. ❝What’s going on? Why are we meeting in the death zone?❞ She asked, her brows furrowing.

❝I. . .❞ She looked down. I raised a brow. I never thought I’d see her like that. So down, so sad, so. . .ready to kill. ❝Our prophecy.❞

Suddenly it made sense. I haven’t told you guys this because you weren’t there but. . .two years ago — we were twelve (12) — and we wanted to know what the attic looked like. So we went upstairs and talked to the spirit of Delphi.

She gave us a prophecy for disturbing her in her time or peace. And I don’t blame her. I would be upset if three kids came to my room and started to snoop around. She gave us a very specific prophecy which we wrote down on a piece of paper. The same piece of paper Mc’Kayla was holding in her hand. With trembling hands she brought it forward. In perfect English the words;

In shadows deep, a traitor shall rise. Deceived by ancient evil's guise. His path turns dark, yet good he’ll seek. In sacrifice, his fate will speak. Monsters gather, bonds entwined, A false king’s legacy, destiny unkind.

Of course, I remember being the one who wrote that down. These two wouldn’t even know how to write the word ‘deceived’. I sighed, grabbing the paper. I looked up at her, ❝Are you sure? Who?❞ She wouldn’t answer us. After a while she looked up, looking at the gap between us.

❝Kronos is. . .❞ I knew that ment Kronos was using someone.

❝Hey,❞ Riley stepped forward, placing a hand to ‘Kayla’s shoulder. ❝I’m sure it’s not that bad. Who is it? Clarisse? An Ares kid? Athena kid?❞

No, she didn’t have to say anything. I stared at her. I couldn’t believe it. Well, I guess I could. Some of those things I had out in his head, the rest was Kronos. ❝Luke. . .❞ her lips quivered and a sob escaped her.

I crumbled the piece of paper and pocketed it. I walked forward, placing a hand to her chest. ❝It’s okay, it’s okay. I’ll be fine❞ I didn’t think it was. ❝We don’t know when this will happen. It could be years away.❞

❝No, I heard him. Last night.❞ She spoke, whipping her eyes as Riley hugged her. Her chin to her shoulder. I stepped back, but let my hand be at her shoulder. ❝He’s planing a lot of things. I almost—I almost heard what he’d to in the future. I almost figured out his whole entire plan.❞

❝It’s okay, we’ll just tell Chiron.❞ She shook her head turning her head to Riley.

❝Riley, we can’t just go and they him. We have to be sure. We could use a new prophecy.❞ I said, I knew it was risky but we really needed a second opinion. Riley sighed, letting go of her girlfriend. ❝Come on, let’s get out of here. We don’t want monsters attacking us.❞

How do you guys find out who your godly parent is?

I have like three guesses on who mine are but I'm not sure how we determine this!

I mean Sally—Sally came back! She ‘died’ and then she was back.

Tyson he—he also ‘died’ but then he came back.

Bianca will do the same, right? She’ll—for Nico. She’ll come back, right?

Please tell me! I don’t care if it’s a spoiler! I want to know! Tell me…she comes back..right?

What kind of powers would the demigod child of Hera have?

I, for one, think that maybe they can bring peahens and peacocks (peachicks maybe) to life and turn them into humans - no matter the age - if that makes sense.

I was reading The Titan's Curse and thought it would be similar to Artemis and her Hunters, but I don't know.

Like, imagine them having their own little army of peacocks (in general).

I had a dream where some peahens were maidens the lowest status but not unimportant and called the child of Hera her/his/their highness. They're like ladies-in-waiting, ya know?

Then there were the soldiers who held higher statues and called the demigod child of Hera; my lady/lord/noble. They're the ones who fight at the command of the royal.

On top of them in this status pyramid are the lieutenants. They command the soldiers and there are like three of them so three groups of soldiers and maidens.

And then we have the general, the second-in-command of the half-blood of Hera. There is only one. They command the lieutenants, soldiers, and maidens--yes, the maidens are all females unless males wish to be. And the general is allowed to call the hald-blood of Hera by their name.

I don't know why it was so specific...but here it is.

Luke sounds very convincing. But I realized that if he does win, Kronos will kill him because what titan in their wrong mind will let a mortal help them overthrow the gods? Not me.

But Luke is making so much sense.

Also save Oreius what the heck!

So far I’m kinda with Luke on this. Overthrow the gods sounds nice. But bringing back a titan—nope!

Also that is gross.

And the thing about the cyclops? What’s with Annabeth? I feel like a cyclops was one of the monster that were attacking them? Eh, I don’t know but they have something to do with Thalia in some way or form.

Anyway, I hope Percy makes it to his sixteen b-day because there’s only three books after this one and Percy is 13 so…?

XOXO

My 𝑡í𝑎 is not my 𝑡í𝑎..and that's okay.

𝙶reek Mythology. Something I don't really thrive on but do enjoy. I barely know anything about it, a 000.001 percent, maybe. I can only name so many devines, it's ridiculous.

I'm sorry, I'm getting ahead of myself, let me introduce... Myself. I'm Seraphina Sofia Kilamary. As in Kila-Mary. Two completely different names morphed into one.

A lot of people get confused and even call me Calamari like it's supposed to be a joke! My friends told me it was... I never understood jokes.

Currently, I am sitting next to my best friends, Riley Gomez and Mc'Kayla Johnson. F.Y.I, the two are dating. Just for some context.

We met back in second grade, my first grade studying in the U.S after moving from Honduras. They're the only people I really trust and care for besides my dad and sisters.

❝Hey, wouldn't it be crazy if--❞ Riley started, getting my attention back.

❝No!❞ Mc'Kayla yelled, slamming her palm on the wooden table outside the school's backyard. ❝No more “what if”s.❞

❝Yeah, Rey,❞ I said, placing my elbow on the table, and leaning my cheek on my hand. ❝“What if”ing is my thing.❞ I said, my siren shaped eyes half closed.

Riley groaned, I understand what it feels like not being listened to. I always get teary when I'm excitedly explaining something just to get cut off and not be able to continue.

❝I'm joking,❞ I smiled, lifting my head up. ❝No, I'm not.❞ Is shook my head, my smile falling. ❝What is it you wanted to say?❞

Mc'Kayla sat back down, rolling her eyes, eyelids fluttering at the motion. It looked like she rolled her eyes way too hard, and if I did that my eyes would vibrate or something, I don't know how to explain it, but if you know you know.

❝Like I was saying,❞ Riley said, glaring at 'Kayla. The latter only crossed her arms, tired of all this Greek Mythology shit. And to be honest... So was I.

But if that was me - which is more often than not - I would want people to listen to me. ❝What if Athena turned Medusa into a monster to protect her?❞

That's it, I straightened my back, hands clasped on the table. ❝No. She cursed Medusa, end of story.❞ I leaned closer, whispering the last part before leaning back and turning my head away.

❝Oh, come on,❞ she said, leaning forward on the table, knees on the seat. ❝I'm sure Athena never cursed Medusa to punish her for what she did--❞

❝What Poseidon did.❞ I corrected, turning my head back to her.

❝Girls, I'm tired of this,❞ Mc'Kayla said, making us turn our attention to her. ❝what time is it?❞ She nodded her head up, looking from me to her girlfriend.

Riley took out her phone from her pocket, ❝12:19, why?❞ she looked up, pocketing her phone. I turned my head to Mc'Kayla, unclasping my hands and resting my palms on the table.

❝We got three minutes,❞ she said, standing up and swinging her legs one by one over the bench. ❝I gotta get to math.❞ She grabbed her bag, making Riley and I stand up and do the same.

❝Sucks for you to have math in seventh period.❞ Riley mocked, straping her bag over her shoulders. ❝I have it just in the middle.❞

I furrowed my brows, fixing the strap on my shoulder before hitting her on the back of her head, ❝Shut up!❞ I said, before snaking my arms behind my neck to lift my curls up.

Riley said "Ow!" as she rubbed her head, sitting back down. Mc'Kayla rolled her eyes before walking next to Riley and cupping her chin while pressing the side of her head to her own chest. ❝You're just mad you have math in first period.❞ Riley mocked, leaning into her girlfriend's touch, legs slowly swinging back and forth.

Nuzzling like a cat, I hate cats. I groaned before turning around and walking to the school's back door. This was like, the first and only time I skipped Study Hall. The girls followed quickly after.

❝Alright,❞ I started looking around the empty hallway. Most kids were in their classes, probably packing up, while some teachers told them the bell hadn't rung.

❝I have to go to Health Care,❞ I turned my attention to them, finished with fixing my bag strap. ❝See you two later--❞ just as they were about to say their goodbyes the speaker turned on.

❝𝘚𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘢 𝘒𝘪𝘭𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘱𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘰𝘧𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘦.❞

I sighed, turning my head back to them. ❝Your grandma coming to pick you up?❞ Riley asked, tilting her head to the side.

❝It's so not fair you get to leave early.❞ Mc'Kayla muttered, rolling her eyes with crossed arms. I chuckled, shaking my head. ❝It's my aunt, she's taking me to her daughter, JJ's graduation party.❞

I started to walk backward, waving before I turned around and headed to the office. I sighed, jerking my head to the side, moving a curly strand of hair behind my shoulder.

I don't really like parties, but I can tolerate the ones that are important to others, like Jaylin. It's amazing she graduated from High School, I'm still nervous about 𝘮𝘺 graduation.

You see (read), I'm a sophomore. And this year I have to get my service hours in. I never understood or will ever understand why they need us to do so. But at least babysitting is something I can put in.

I turned the corner, spotting my aunt standing on the other side of the hallway as I neared half of it. She was not in the main office but behind the main doors which is right there in the office. I'm sorry, I'm ready trying to describe VHS as I remember it.

I pushed the door open, letting it close behind me. ❝𝐻𝑜𝑙𝑎,❞ (Hi/Hello) she said, leaning to give me a hug and a kiss on my cheek which I returned.

❝𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑜 𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑠?❞ (how are you?) She asked, turning around and pulling the door open. We walked out after my aunt said a quick "Thank you!" To the person working at the desk.

❝𝐵𝑖𝑒𝑛٫ 𝑦 𝑡𝑢?❞ (Good, and you?) I asked, looking around before looking up at her. She sighed, looking around before crossing the road with me.

❝𝐸𝘩٫ 𝑐𝑎𝑛𝑠𝑎𝑑𝑎.❞ (Uh, tired. - feminine ver.) She chuckled, walking around to the driver's side. I got into the passenger seat, dropping my bag to the floor, my legs on each side. All the while my aunt got in and closed the door, buckling her seatbelt.

❝Same.❞ I said closing the door before leaning back in the seat. ❝How are the girls? Still together I hope.❞ She asked, leaning forward in her seat, and twisting the car keys.

❝Ye𝐩, still going on strong.❞ I leaned forward, shifting in my seat. ❝Yourrrrr--uh,❞ she leaned back after hitting the gas pedal - or whatever you hit first.

❝Mm?❞ I hummed, lips presses together. I turned my head to her after pocketing my phone from looking at the time. ❝Your mom called.❞ She chuckled nervously, eyes flickering from me to the road.

I hummed again, crossing my arms as I exhaled. Me and my bonus mom never got along. She sent me to a Psychiatrist when I stopped talking to her for having two kids with another man. Like chu married to my dad, bitch!

And he doesn't know of it! Urgh, that's disgusting. I turned my head to the window, ❝What did she say?❞ I asked, trying to sound as polite as I could. I didn't want to sound rude to my aunt.

❝Uh, not--not her.❞ Aunt Rosabella said with a small chuckle. I turned my head to her, brows furrowed sadly. ❝Oh,❞ I said, eyes flickering down to the car floor. My arms loosening, uncrossing them.

Great, my biological mom wants to see me. She and I get along well. It's one-sided, though. She thinks we get along well. I don't, with her.

It's a long story and I don't want to spoil that right now. ❝Do you know why?❞ I look up at her, palms placed on my knees.

Aunt Rosabella sighed, eyes on the road. ❝No, but it appeared urgent.❞ She glanced down at me, her brows greased a little bit. ❝How are your teachers doing? Doing the job well, I hope.❞

My eyes flickered to the window. ❝Yeah, they're great. I'm just kinda sad Mr. Strickler had to report back to the military.❞

❝Oh, that soon, huh?❞ Aunt Rosabella sucked at her teeth, looking at the road. It was pretty empty today. No cars out. Nobody is out for a run. Which was usually what we saw.

A man running about with his dog. Two cars heading to the school, usually the nurses who switch shifts with the other two. But today seemed quiet. More quieter than the first two days of school.

I look up at Aunt Rosabella, she seemed tense, too tense. Her hands gripped the steering wheel, her shoulders were up, being pressed close to her head.

I furrowed my brows, my nails digging into my skin through my leggings. ❝𝑇𝑖𝑡í?❞ (Slang for 'Aunt' - Auntie) She shook her head, shoulders lowering, ❝I--I got a call from mister Brunner yesterday.❞ She said, evading my observation.

I hummed, eyes flickering from the window to her. ❝He suspects there might be another guest at the party.❞ She smiled awkwardly at me. I sighed, closing my eyes for a moment.

I opened them, smiling up at her. ❝That's nice. When will they arrive?❞

❝I don't know,❞ she said shaking her head and looking back forward. We were nearing our location. She glanced at me before looking forward, squinting her eyes in the distance. ❝Are Riley and Mc'Kayla joining us?❞ She asked, straightening. So far, we have made it without getting caught.

Listen (read), from here on out, things may sound crazy--too unrealistic. And I understand that. Trust me, I thought so too when I was ten (10). But the next paragraphs you are about to read will be shocking--unless you have a good idea of what will happen.

I applaud you for that.

❝Yes, but not 'till later.❞ I answered, looking out the window. ❝By the gods!❞ My aunt yelled, stopping the car. I yelped, having not put a seatbelt on I wouldn't have been pulled forward by gravity. Aunt Rosabella held me, twisting her body to keep me close before my head slammed into the car.

I started to hyperventilate, hands gripping her arm. ❝Wha--what's going on?❞ I asked, too shocked to move. My aunt softly pushed me back, she unwrapped her arms from me and got out of the car, leaving the door open.

I looked up, my eyes widening once more. I opened the door, leaving my bag in the car. ❝What happened?❞ I asked, it was a rhetorical question. In front of us was a flipped-over car. Its flames were dying. Aunt Rosabella got up from the ground, dusting her palms on her pants. ❝Nobody is in there. They must have made it.❞

She walked past me, opening the car trunk. I stood still, looking at the bloodsplashes. 'This couldn't be happening', a voice in my head said. I flinched when I heard the trunk door close. I turned around, taking a few steps forward. ❝Here,❞ she said, handing me a duffel bag.

I took it, shouldering it. ❝it has all you need. I even packed your pills, okay?❞ I look up at her, my eyes flickering to the tree on the hill. ❝Okay, thanks.❞ I nodded, my eyes getting teary.

I exhaled, ❝So this is it?❞ I asked, my voice shaky as realization sunk in. I look at the flipped-over car, that must be the new person coming to "the party." I looked back at her, blinking my eyes so my tears would fall and stop blurring my vision of the woman standing in front of me pretending to be my aunt, I forgot she wasn't.

❝Oh,❞ she wrapped her arms around me, getting teary as well. I wrapped my arms around her as well. ❝The others will take care of you, baby.❞ She said, caressing the back of my head.

I didn't want to leave her, leave my family. I knew Mc'Kayla - my cousin - and Riley - best friend/future cousin-in-law - would be here with me. But I would never be able to say goodnight to my little sisters. Not be able to hug my father or kiss him goodnight.

But it was for the best. I had too many monsters after me. Too many who suspected me of something...

We parted the hug, and Aunt Rosabella stepped back. She was glowing gold. She opened her mouth to say something when we heard a shrike echo. The glow dimmed, and my aunt Rosabella was now on alert. My shoulders tensed, and my hands and fingers twitched to cover my ears. But I didn't.

I actually liked the sound. Still do.

I turned around, squinting my eyes in the distance. ❝Sofi..❞ my aunt Rosabella whispered. ❝Sofi, get to camp.❞ She whispered, I could sense her presence behind me. How she got closer. She placed her hands on my shoulders, ❝Get to camp.❞

We could see a figure in the distance that previously looked like a tree. ❝Seraphina Kila-Mary,❞ the thing called. Its voice was deep and husky, but it had a familiar tone. ❝we have orders from our lord to take you under.❞

My brain was working extra hours to find out who this was. But it was also trying to figure out why a Fury was after her--me. ❝This should be impossible.❞ I whispered as my aunt Rosabella stepped in front of me. I gripped the strap of my duffel, slowly stepping back. I needed to get to Thalia, I would be safe there.

So, remember the "JJ's graduation party" thing? Yeah, that was a ruse. She graduated long ago. We just couldn't have anyone hear I was moving to camp for the whole year. Well, depends if danger ceases to exist.

I turned my head to Thalia, seeing her pine tree on the hill. ❝I have orders from my lady to not let you!❞ Aunt Rosabella yelled, her golden glow appearing. I could only see the back of her head, but I could tell her pupils had turned gold, her sclera turning black.

I knew this because it happened once. A Fury was after another demigod but got a sniff of me and attacked me instead. Aunt Rosabella protected me, tough.

...the demigod died.

She turned her head to the side, ❝Get to safety!❞ She yelled, I wasted no time to hear her speak as I ran to the hill. The Fury shrieked, turning to its original, terrifying form. I could hear the Fury shrike in pain, my aunt Rosabella groaning and grunting.

The Fury had lunged forward, using its wings to fly towards me. I kept running, not looking back. I don't have an understanding of what exactly happened in the battle but I can tell you this; Aunt Rosabella grew wings, pushing herself off of the ground and blocking the Fury's way. The Fury shrieked when her hands turned into claws, griping the creature's shoulders. The fury shook, flapping around as it tried to shake the woman off, clawing at Rosabella's face. The woman let out a groan as her head was slapped.

She turned her head to the creature, its wings flapping wildly. Slowly her body was morphing, a tail growing from behind her. Her dangling feet turned into razor-sharp claws, gleaming in the fading light. Her arms grew fur, wings rearranging themselves as her body shifted. Once the glow was gone she let out a loud shrike. Her mouth was replaced by a long beak. She lunged her head forward, pecking the Fury with her peak.

I had reached Thalia by that time. I panted, leaning on the tree, ❝Hey, Tha--Thalia.❞ I laughed breathlessly. I turn around, my eyes flickering from the sky to the two. Now I could see the figure of the guy who was after me. ❝Mister LaRosa!❞ I screamed, finally recognizing who was after me. ❝I thought he was sent by my mom to protect me.❞ I said lowly to Thalia, turning my head to the tree. ❝No wonder he never talked to me personally or even looked my way.❞

Aunt Rosabella dug her talons deeper into the Fury's shoulders. The Fury's eyes blazed with fury (no pun intended) as it tried to shake off the Griffin's grip. But Aunt Rosabella held firm, her feathers ruffled by the Fury's flapping wings.

The Fury unleashed a blood-curdling scream, summoning dark, swirling mist from the Underworld. The mist coiled around Aunt Rosabella like a living serpent, trying to constrict her. But the Griffin's lion-like body glowed with golden light and with a mighty cry, Aunt Rosabella spread her wings, beating them powerfully to dispel the mist.

The Fury stumbled backward, its claws swiping wildly at the air as its wings clashed with Rosabella's. The Griffin countered with a swift swipe of her beak, ripping through the Fury's dark robes.

As the Fury recoiled, its face contorted in rage, Aunt Rosabella seized the opportunity. Her wings flapped back, summoning a gust of wind. The gust slammed into the Fury, sending it tumbling down to the ground.

The Fury sprang to its feet, eyes blazing with malevolent intent. But Aunt Rosabella stood firm, wings spread wide, ready to defend against the next attack.

She lowered herself gracefully, and I could still see her elegant figure in the distance. ❝Your master, Hades, will not claim this soul today.❞ The Griffin sent by my mother declared, her voice like thunder. I sighed, a hand on my chest. I walked backward, curious about what they might say. But I didn't want to dwell on it. I had enough problems as it was. No need to find out stuff I don't want to hear. Nor did I care why Hades was after me. What was going on here? I had asked myself many times, but like I said, I didn't dwell on it at that moment.

I turned around, sitting down the hill. I laughed as I rolled down. When I was at the bottom, I sat up with a breathless laugh. I brought my hand up, moving my curls out of my face to the back of my head. I turned my head, I was in front of a big house, its name? Big House. I exhaled, standing up, using my right hand as support. I opened the door, eyes flickering around the dim place. ❝Sera!❞ The voice of a girl called. I walked in, closing the door behind me. ❝Hey, Annabeth.❞ I whispered, eyeing the figure sleeping.

❝You won't believe what happened!❞ The younger girl said. Her blonde curls bounced as she jumped up from her seat, setting the book down. She walked to me with a big smile. ❝I'm gonna guess he's our new camper?❞ I pointed at the drooling ravenette.

❝He killed a Minotaur!❞

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(A little rant, sorry.) Disclaimer! I wrote this before getting to the chapter of Medusa and without finishing the book. I'm one of those people who see a fandom, watches some videos about it (TikTok/yt shorts), reads x readers on Tumblr, etc. before reading/watching the fandom. And I (personally) love it when I get spoilers.

Also, I'm so sad about Jason, Don't really know a lot about him. Heard he died. And he has dated Piper for like three years, right? But she's lesbian? I really need to finish reading this because I have to know how this actually goes.

I don't want to assume things, but I can't help it. I don't hate any of the characters so far. And I was so shocked when reading the Medusa part. Like, and I quote ❝“...I had a…a boyfriend, you know, and this bad woman was determined to break us apart. She caused a terrible accident...”❞ I mean, I agree with the "bad woman" part. 'cause in the original Greek mythology (I hadn't realized Rick changed so much) Athena curses Mesuda for breaking a vow and desecrating Athena's temple. (Dind't she [Medusa] get r@ped?)

But why did she and Posidon have to be together in this? Is it because it was easier to explain to Rick's son? Either way, I feel bad for poor Medusa. In the original and in this. I kinda want to hug the creature. I want to become the creature. Also, kinda ironic. Perseus beheaded Mesuda in the original GM. While in Percy Jackson, Percy (short for Perseus) beheaded Medusa. Ironic, isn't it?

So far, I wanna judo-flip Annabeth. She's annoying. That's why I love her. She's precious. Grover as well. I love him. And I'm quite curious about what happened with Annabeth and him. I have a few theories. Maybe Grover failed to protect her? I mean, I feel like that's obvious. I wanna research like I have been, but I'll just wait and see.

Chapter two is in progress...

XOXO,