Ok so this picks up like a few hours after Adrenaline, okays?

Chapter 1

Darion POV

Right now I'm pacing around my hotel room trying to figure out what the hell just happened.

It made no sense!

I mean I had no reason to do that, but it just felt so good.

I desperately tried to piece it together, but I couldn't.

Ah!

Neither of us had a flippin idea what had happened…

xX-Flashback-Xx

After some time she pulled away slowly, and I was sure I had one of those high-looking expressions on my face. I certainly felt that way.

Though, that didn't stop the awkward silence.

She backed away and to the side, coming to lean against the rock face beside me.

I mean, don't get me wrong, that was an incredible kiss, but it was just weird. Not in a billion years did I think I would have kissed Artemis, let alone twice.

We both just stood there, trying to figure out what just happened.

I was the first to kiss her, but all I remember was just thinking how pretty she looked, what with the sun shining, hitting her hair perfectly, eyes sparkling.

Whoa, where did that come from? I haven't ever thought like that before, have I?

I mean I had always kind-of thought that, maybe in the back of my mind, but never actually thought-thought it.

Ugh, I just needed to figure this out already!

I tried to ask quietly something but all I could get out was, "Um…er…ah…"

Still, she must've gotten what I meant and sighed before saying, "It's alright, I'm pretty confused myself."

I had no clue how she could talk so calmly…I was freaking out.

There was another awkward pause before I said, "Um, do you mind if I go back to the hotel…to figure some this out?"

She mutely shook her head so I breathed out a thanks before calling Blackjack and flying the hell out of there.

xX-End of Flashback-Xx

It was driving me insane, and I wasn't even an Athena kid!

I figured water would help so I ran a bath, climbing in as soon as it was full.

The water calmed me and helped to clear my mind, but I still had some crap to sort out.

It was an impulse, the first kiss. It was like I couldn't control my movements, but I did not regret it.

The way she tasted, they way her lips felt on mine…it was bliss.

I shouldn't have liked it so much; she's like my only friend.

Artemis knew me better than anyone, well Darion better. Darion is like the mature form of Percy. Annabeth still knows the old me best.

Ah, Annabeth. Good 'ol Annabeth. I missed her sometimes, her companionship. She was always thinking for me, letting me be reckless, being the voice of reason and the brains. But I had become smarter since those years, and I didn't need someone to be those things, I had them now.

And the kiss was different from the ones I shared with Annabeth. It was sweeter, less weird. Wow, a kiss with Artemis was less weird than with Annabeth.

Well, I did feel different about Artemis than Annabeth. With Annabeth she was always my best friend, but if we ever went past that it was awkward, and I never really wanted to bring it farther.

But with Artemis…well I don't really know.

It was odd, thinking about if I liked her. She was like off-limits, though a great person.

I defiantly liked her, but I can't tell if it was friends…but it will didn't feel like that, it almost felt deeper. She was the only one who knew the real me, knew basically everything about me.

And when I was around her, I felt more relaxed, and I'd told her things I've never told anyone else, not even my own father or mother.

Holy shit…did I feel something towards her?

It was an odd idea, though probable. If I was going to feel anything towards anyone, it would be her.

I just sighed and completely immersed myself; trying to relax and banish these thoughts until later…it was just too much right now.

Apparently I relaxed too much, falling asleep.

I awoke later to banging to the bathroom door and someone saying, "You're late."

Oh shit, I still had to meet the gods today.

Hurriedly I jumped out of the tub, wrapping a towel around my lower half, mentally cursing myself for not bringing in clothes.

After pulling the drain I willed myself wet, unlocking the door and slamming into whoever had just wakened me.

I muttered sorry until I realized who it was, my eyes widening comically. Oh, this was just my luck. Can't I get a break?

Any other time I might have just stood there stupidly, but I really had to get to the arena.

I grabbed a pair of boxers from the top of my bag, hopping into the bathroom again. I dried myself and slip them on, feeling a little better.

After brushing my teeth fast I went back into the room again, pulling a pair of tan cargo shorts and a short-sleeved white muscle tee out randomly. I am so lucky all of my clothes match each other.

Sliding them on I grabbed a rubber band, gathering my hair once I was clothed.

I took out my other knife pouch and slid my shorts down a little, securing it around my waist before pulling the shorts back up. It wasn't as comfortable as the leg pouches, but I would look like a dork with those on.

Stopping, I breathed, taking a look at the clock. Great, I was ten minutes late. Still, was that really late enough to send someone after me? And did it have to be her? Well, I do suppose they don't know about what went down, but after our…interesting fight yesterday, I'd think they'd send someone else.

I asked, "Are you walking?"

She shrugged and said, "I guess."

Cue another awkward silence.

I coughed and walked out the door, holding it open.

Once she was out I made sure it locked before going down the stairs to the ground floor. I was on the fourth floor, but I didn't really care.

Out of the hotel I broke into a jog, trying to get there faster without looking like a dweeb running.

Soon enough I got there, running in to bow before Zeus.

I told him, them, "Sorry, didn't hear my alarm."

They nodded and she took her spot.

It was distracting to have her there, what with my thoughts last night.

Zeus droned on about how I had passed all my tests and finally released me saying I could go for my six months. He warned me not to get into trouble, and to be back at least a week before my time was up.

I nodded at everything, mentally sighing when I was finally let go.

I walked around Olympus blindly, not really paying attention, but who cares? I was free!

But before I left I knew I needed to talk to someone.

Ooh, that was going to be a really awkward conversation.

Sighing I dragged myself back to the hotel room.

Once there I figured I would have my last actual shower for like five or six months.

After my shower I felt better and changed into the same clothes I was in earlier, I had only worn them for like two hours.

I packed what little I had set out, basically my travel alarm clock, a bag of drachmas and my wallet.

Turning on the TV to HBO I laid on the bed, half-watching the movie.

My mind wandered and I wondered what I was going to do with all my time.

Well, I was going to get the Giffards and go to camp, for sure. Though it's near the end of the school year, I think there's a month left, camp usually starts in May and it's April. So I think I'll protect the kids, then take them in the summer. Plus, that way all my rescued kids will be there. I really did grow fond of them, and Jenna is still my little buddy, even though she's ten now. I wonder how Zenos is doing, being all alone in his cabin. He's seven now, a full time camper. I hope the others are treating him good. Well, the kids I rescue usually are good friends, and Jenna said she'd look after him. I really do care for the kids I help.

At this point I was looking blankly at the screen, a big goofy smile on my face. I'm sure I looked ridiculous, but I had a soft spot for all of them.

I sighed contently, but noticed the other presence in the room and it got really awkward again.

I turned off the TV and turned around to face her.

If I did have…feelings for her, I see where I get them. She really is quite beautiful and a great person.

Artemis started, "So, what are you going to do?"

I smiled and told her, "I'm going to get those kids I left then go to the camp in summer and see all the kids I know. Then maybe go and see some people, float around a bit. If I get bored I'll probably come back here early."

She nodded but I knew that wasn't what she was here for, and that's not what I waited around for.

I said, "Look, I've thought some about it, and I don't really know what happened, but I did…like it."

She was quiet for a moment before replying, "As did I."

For some reason I like that…a lot. More than I should have.

Slowly I got up and went over to sit next to her.

Artemis stiffened at first then relaxed, surprised I had sat so close.

I asked, "What now?"

She looked up at my face saying, "I'm not sure, though it should be kept from the others, they might get the wrong impression. Maybe tell them later."

Oh my gods, I hadn't even thought about that. Didn't she break some oath for kissing me? Oh man, I don't want to make her do anything that would go against what she believed in.

I scooted away somewhat saying, "I'm sorry, I'm so sorry."

Artemis must've caught on because she said, "Chill, I haven't gone against anything. I only ever pledged that I wouldn't marry and I would stay a virgin."

I visibly relaxed and she smirk-smiled slightly, the expression looking wonderful upon her face.

Very slowly I reached out and took her left hand in my right. Her skin felt nice against mine and her hand fit exactly right.

Again, Artemis tensed before calming down. She said, "Sorry, I'm just not used to it."

I murmured, "Yeah, I know. I'm kind-of new to it myself."

She looked surprised and said, "But Annabeth, what about her?"

I chuckled and told her, "It was different with Annabeth, always weird and it never felt right at all. She was always just a very good friend."

Artemis' expression turned puzzled and she asked, "Then why give up immortality for her?"

I chuckled again, louder this time, before saying, "Oh wow, that's what everyone thought? I gave it up for all of my friends. I gave it up because I was afraid if I left them I'd go all emo and 'nobody loves me'. Guess I have rotten luck, it happened because I turned it down."

She sighed and squeezed my hand, and it actually made me feel better. I mean, most anything would, that was a crappy moment in my life.

I looked at the clock, seeing it read two o'clock. I'd have to leave soon, if I was going to tonight, though I could spare an hour or two. I just really hate travelling at night.

Gently I let go of her hand, standing up. I walked over to the table and grabbed the remote, turning on the TV again.

I went back over and lied down on the other bed next to where Artemis was still sitting.

After a minute she carefully laid down and I grabbed her hand, loving the way it felt.

We watched whatever movie was on, but I was unfocused again, too busy thinking.

Right now-lying here here, holding Artemis' hand-it was odd, but not weird. I didn't feel like I should pull away my hand, nor was I inclined to do anything else. I was content with this.

I had to go to the bathroom so I retracted my hand and went over to it, ducking under the TV as I passed.

Once I was done I went back the same way.

I whispered-asked, "What happened since I was gone?"

Artemis rolled over to face me and smirked saying, "Why do I get the feeling you haven't been watching at all?"

I blushed a bit, how did she know that? I shrugged, not really wanting to give a verbal answer.

The smirk turned into an amused smile and she shook her head, turning back to the TV.

Ha, she hadn't been watching either! I smirked and said, "How come I get the feeling you didn't watch either?"

I swear I saw a tiny bit of blush on her cheeks and my smirk grew by the same amount before turning into a smile.

I sighed and laid flat on my back.

This was so confusing!

I thought I had it figured out, but apparently not.

We acted the same, just sitting a little bit closer.

This wasn't another Annabeth case…was it?

I don't think it was, it just felt different and I'm a different person now. I'm not the kid who relies on his friends far too much. I'm not the kid who mistook his friendship for love, no not anymore. It's taken a lot to get me this way, and I'm not going back.

I checked the clock again seeing it was already three-thirty. Well I guess I'm staying another night. It's just not worth it to start off this late.

My stomach rumbled loudly, but I really didn't care. I've gone without food for much longer.

Apparently Artemis did care as she sat up, withdrawing her hand saying, "I forgot you hadn't eaten. Come on, I'll go down to the city with you."

I figured it would be of no use to try and argue, so I dragged myself up and out of the comfy bed.

I fished my sunglasses and wallet out of my sack, throwing a few drachmas in it, just in case.

After sliding it into my pocket I led the way out of the door, making sure to hold it open for Artemis. It was just common courtesy, but people these days have no manners, so it seems odd. My mother made sure to teach me these things.

Artemis said she had to get some things and would meet me down in the city, so I let her zap away in the stairwell.

It was very bright outside so I slipped on my ray-bans and headed for the elevator.

I guess my news had spread 'cause people actually noticed I was there for once.

When I turned around in the elevator I noticed some people staring, most of them girls. Well, whatever.

Once I was down I walked straight through the lobby, ignoring the stares from people who thought I was a loon for wearing sunglasses inside.

I leaned against the side of the building, waiting.

Soon enough I felt a godly presence to my right but when I turned my head I saw it was Apollo.

He came over and I straightened out before bowing slightly, trying not to look like an idiot, and saying, "Lord Apollo, what brings you here?"

He chuckled and said, "It's Fred out here, and I just wanted to say congrats. You like ruled."

I laughed once and replied, "Thanks."

'Fred' and I talked for a minute longer before he walked off, zapping himself away later.

Artemis came up right when he was gone, dressed in normal clothes. Well, normal to me.

I asked, "Is there anywhere in particular?"

She shook her head and said, "Nope, you're the one who needs to eat."

I smiled and told her, "In that case, follow me."

I led Artemis to the little diner, the same one I had went to after my first two tests, but hey, I can eat cheeseburgers two times in a week.

When we got there I held open the door saying, "Nice little place here, kind-of out of the way. I come every time I'm in New York."

She nodded and went inside. We took one of the booths on the wall. Artemis had to actually look at the menu, but I already knew what I'd be getting, I got the same thing every time.

Soon enough our waitress came over and did the formal introduction before she noticed it was me saying, "Oh, Darion. Back so soon? I wasn't expecting for at least a few more weeks."

I smiled and nodded saying, "Hey, Ruby. Well, I have to make up for some time, not quite sure when I'll be back. Got some business to attend to in Phoenix."

The plump little red-haired lady, that reminded me of a grandmother, replied, "Well good luck with that, then. And I see you finally managed to get a girl?"

I blushed profusely stuttering, "Um, Ruby, she's just a friend."

Ruby just smiled and nodded saying, "Alright then, the usual?"

I replied, "Of course."

She wrote it down, though I think even the chefs knew it by now, and turned to Artemis saying, "And what would you like, dear?"

She ordered a little single and Ruby left to go put in the orders.

Artemis looked at me with a raised eyebrow saying, "They know you well around here, huh?"

I smiled and nodded before saying, "Yea, I used to come here all the time as a kid, whenever my mother could afford it, and just got hooked on the place. Not many people know about it, and I think that makes it cooler. I'm pretty sure they know my order by heart."

She asked, "And that would be…?"

I smirked and said, "You'll see."

We chatted after that aimlessly, just talking.

When our food came out Artemis' eyes widened when she saw my triple with cheese and cheese fries, along with a chocolate shake. It looked like it could eat her food.

I smirked and picked up a fry saying, "What, I like my food. I don't eat a lot anywhere else, but I always indulge here."

She took that answer and we ate in silence, not because of lack of conversation, but the food was really good, and it was hard to put down long enough to talk.

I finished right after she did with my burger, and picked at my fries slowly drinking my shake at the same time.

A very high-pitched voice said, "Darion? Is that you?"

My face paled and I didn't answer, hoping she would think it wasn't me.

But, alas, luck was not with me and she came over.

"It is you! Been awhile since I last saw you, Darion." She said.

I nodded, desperately hoping she'd go away.

She asked, "Are you going to introduce me to your friend here?"

I said, "Mia, Jenna. Jenna, Mia. Jenna is my…girlfriend."

Mia's face dropped considerably. Once again I just wished she would leave, but the girl was persistent.

She said, "Well, good for you. But if you ever need me you still have my number, right?"

I nodded but she wrote it on my napkin anyway before going back to her own table.

I let out a frustrated, but relieved, sigh when she was out of hearing range.

Ruby decided that it would be an opportune moment to come with the check, a big smile on her face. Crap, she had heard that.

She said, "So, she's not your girlfriend, but is."

I shook my head and told her, "She's seriously just a friend, Ruby. I just needed to get Mia out of my face."

Ruby chuckled and said, "Oh, I know, Darion, you're just so fun to mess with."

I laughed along with her for a moment before pulling out my wallet and paying the check in cash.

Artemis scowled at me for that saying, "I could've paid."

I replied, "I am aware, but I was raised to pick up the check if I could. And it's also for not slapping me."

She knew I was talking about my talk with Mia and nodded. Relived I relaxed a bit more, I really didn't think that'd work.

After a second I calculated exactly 17% of the bill and left it as tip. I let Artemis lead out, but when were passing by Mia's table I grabbed her hand for a second, letting it go as soon as Mia huffed and looked away.

Once we were outside Artemis asked, "So what's the deal with that Mia girl?"

I shuddered and said, "I came here after dropping off Robert—a Hermes kid—and she was like instantly fixated on me. It's really creepy. Ruby usually helps me out after a few minutes."

We lapsed into easy chatter after that until we came within view of the state building.

She turned to me and said, "I'm going to zap myself up."

I nodded, knowing it'd be weird and bad for the other gods to see her with me.

Inside I tossed the guy a drachma and he gave up the card without a fight.

The elevator ride always seemed to take forever, and the music hasn't ever gotten better.

At the top I stepped out and stopped to put on my glasses, Apollo really needed to turn down the sun.

I walked back to the hotel slowly, taking a weird path.

Olympus was spectacular, and I'd miss it in my time away, but then I got to stay here for all time.

I looked over my day and stopped in my tracks.

Did I just go on a date with Artemis?

I didn't mean to, if I did.

It didn't really feel like a date, so I deemed it wasn't.

Sure I might like her a little bit more than friends…but it doesn't mean we're all couple-ly and dating.

I started back on my walk, getting to the hotel within minutes.

Hm, a nap sounded really good right now, and it was late.

Shedding the knife pouch and shirt I climbed into bed, falling asleep quickly.

Well, that was more like Adrenaline than Rise, but I wanted to end Adrenaline where I did. So deal with this.

Poor Darion is confused, he doesn't know what he feels. And he has a stalker? Oooookkkkk then. Hm, coming up is his six months and guess one of the people he's going to see. She might shake things up a little, but not really until later in the story.

Thanks for all the reviews on Adrenaline, but I would love to have more on Rise, so let's make it happen.

Forever, JazzCullen001