Summary: Jason has more dreams about his history with the Cloudy Wolf. Sam becomes reclusive, and Percy becomes depressed. Unfortunately, trouble is headed towards Camp Half-Blood.
Notes: Yes, this chapter is named after of a song. You can listen to it for dramatic effect at the right moment. I'll give you a cue. Look up the song on Youtube.
Chapter 10: Apocalypsis Noctis (Revelation of the Night)
Nico
Nico looked as Will attended to Percy. If anything could describe the son of Hades' current state of mind, one word would sum it up — livid. The way his fellow demigods had stared at Sam reminded the son of Hades exactly of the way they used to look at him. Those fearful Looks were ones Nico was all too familiar with, and he was ready to unleash hell (though not literally) upon his fellow campers.
What the fuck is wrong with these...these children?!
I don't care that some of them are older than myself, these people are children!
They should know better than to do that!
As Nico opened his mouth to give them a piece of his mind, someone else spoke.
"WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU?!" Jason shouted at all of them, surprising Nico because he had beat him to it.
Holy shit!
Jason?!
"Did you not feel his pain?! He shared that with all of you, and you just stomped on his feelings because you were scared of his eyes?! You should all be ashamed of yourselves!" Jason continued, looking so furious, that it actually scared Nico.
That's scary.
Too scary.
I've heard about the wolf-stare, but I've never actually seen it until now.
I'm the Ghost King, I should be immune to scary.
Nico quickly got over his shock at the outburst.
Get a hold of yourself, Nico.
He's right.
"Jason's right," Nico spoke up, not shouting since Jason had done that for him. "You should be ashamed of yourselves. You all welcomed him just the other day before looking at him like he was some sort of freak."
I know how exactly how that feels.
I know exactly what Sam is experiencing right now.
"If you can accept me, you sure as hell can accept Sam," Nico added.
I would say 'Hades', but knowing my dad, he might actually show up.
"But he hurt Percy," someone objected.
What the hell is wrong with these guys?!
"It wasn't on purpose," Percy said, and Nico looked to see Will helping him sit up. "I know Sam well enough to know that he'd never hurt me on purpose."
Clearly not, Sam is in love with Percy.
He definitely wouldn't hurt him on purpose.
Percy then looked around.
"Where's Sam?"
"He...just vanished," Nico answered. "I don't know where he is."
Percy sighed, looking depressed.
Poor Percy.
"He's hurting," Percy said. "He's in so much pain that I couldn't handle it."
Oh, I definitely know how Sam feels.
"I need to find him," Percy said, his voice sounding like he was pleading.
Percy stood, but he wavered slightly, so Will immediately supported him.
"Percy, I think you take it easy," Will said, but Percy quickly shook his head.
"No. I need to find him. I made a promise to him."
I wonder what he promised.
Nico mentally shook his head.
Not important.
That's between them.
"And we will find him," Nico said. "Don't worry, Percy. We'll find him."
Hopefully, we can find him before curfew; otherwise, the cleaning harpies will come.
I'm worried about them hurting Sam.
It's actually quite the opposite, I'm worried that Sam will kill them.
But first...
Nico focused on Drew, who was busy looking into a compact mirror to check her makeup. His jaw nearly dropped at the act.
You have got to be fucking kidding me!
"Hey!" Nico shouted, startling the Drew so much that she dropped her compact.
A shard of the mirror broke off upon hitting the ground, and Drew had the audacity to glare at Nico.
"Excuse you?! That was a gift from my mother!"
Is she fucking with me?!
"Exuse me?!" Nico replied, looking at Drew with a completely incredulous stare. "Are you fucking kidding me?! You just forced Sam to come out to everyone instead of his own terms, Percy was accidentally hurt, and Sam's missing, and your first concern is your makeup?! What the fuck is wrong with you?!"
Drew rolled her eyes.
"What's wrong with me? What's wrong with you? Why can't people like you and Sam recognize a catch like myself."
'Catch'?!
Are you fucking kidding me?!
Just because I'm gay doesn't mean that I don't recognize beauty.
You are no catch, and it has absolutely nothing to with your looks.
You're just a terrible person.
Just as Nico was about to reply to tell Drew exactly what he thought of her, Percy scoffed.
"'Catch'? You really think you're hot stuff, don't you?" the son of Poseidon asked, glaring so harshly at the daughter of Aphrodite, it was as if he intended to burn a hole through her skull. "You think that every guy just swoons over you, which they don't, and when they don't, you think you can just humiliate them? Do you have any clue how Sam feels? No, you don't, but I do. I felt exactly what Sam was feeling, and if you felt even a fraction of it, you'd be on the ground, crying like the little, petty, narcissistic, annoying, stuck up bitch that you are."
Damn, Percy.
That was harsh.
Not that I don't agree.
No, I agree completely, and if you hadn't said it, I definitely would have.
Percy then rolled his eyes.
"Then again, I suppose that's actually a good thing. No one wants to hear or watch you cry. Not because they'd feel bad for you or something, but because everyone would do everything in their power just to make you shut the fuck up."
Nico mentally nodded, in complete agreement with Percy.
He's right.
Hell, if I was at my full strength, I'd open a pit straight into the Underworld, just to not see or hear that.
"How dare you?!" Drew shouted, looking as if she had the right to be angry. "How dare you say such things about me?! What, you think that just because Poseidon is your dad that you can just treat me like this?!"
"How dare I?" Percy asked, before letting out a humorless chuckle. "Drew, let me put it to you simply: You're a total bitch and a complete coward. You hid during the Battle of Manhattan, and I didn't find you anywhere when Gaea attacked. Everyone helped in any way they could. All the children of Aphrodite fought except for you, and you have the gall to call Silena a traitor? Silena gave her life! Even Will, who isn't, no offense, Will, a great fighter, fought."
Will shrugged, not seeming to mind one bit.
"None taken, Percy. I'm a better healer than a fighter, and I'm not ashamed to admit that."
Neither am I.
Will has no reason to be ashamed.
I know he hates fighting because he hates causing pain, and he has trouble not feeling it when he fights.
Not that he can't handle himself.
"And you're reason? All because you were worried that the fighting would ruin your makeup," Percy continued, stepping towards Drew. "Well, here. Allow me."
Nico watched as Percy slapped Drew across the face, the sound of it filling the air.
Damn.
No one gasped, no one shouted. Only silence followed...until Drew started crying, and Nico and several other campers grabbed their ears at the sound.
Gods, it's even worse than the screaming from the Fields of Punishment!
In fact...maybe I should tell my dad about Drew.
Listening to her cry would be a fitting punishment for anyone.
Drew continued to wail.
Okay, seriously, someone please, shut her up!
Connor Stoll and two of his siblings ran up to Drew, Connor carrying something in his hands.
Is that what I think it is?
The two children of Hermes grabbed Drew's arms, and Connor immediately applied duct tape over her mouth, snipping it to detach it from the roll.
Well...it looks like Percy was right.
Piper was next to walk up to Drew, who was still crying, the sound muffled by the duct tape.
"Stop crying," Piper said, using her charmspeak in a forceful tone.
Drew became silent, and Nico took his hands off his ears, breathing a sigh of relief.
Thank the gods.
Or rather, thank Piper.
"Thank you," Percy said to Piper.
Piper smiled and nodded.
"You're welcome. Go look for Sam before curfew."
Percy nodded and took off without a word.
Good luck, Percy.
I hope that you can find him, not that I also won't be looking.
Nico then felt someone tugging at his jacket, and turned to see Isaac.
"Can I help look for Sam?" the young son of Ares asked.
"You're not scared of him?" Nico questioned.
Isaac shook his head.
"No. I think his eyes are cool."
I should have known he'd say something like that.
Nico smiled.
"Of course you can help. I think his eyes are cool, too."
Though they can be rather intimidating under certain circumstances.
"I'll help look, too," Sherman spoke up, surprising Nico.
I thought that Sam and Sherman had some sort of feud going on.
I guess that they've put aside their differences aside.
"We've already had campers go missing, and I don't want Sam to be another one of them," Sherman added.
He's got a good point.
Jason started to hover off the ground.
"I'll be looking, too."
Jason will definitely be of great help.
"We'll tell Chiron that Sam ran off but is probably still here at Camp," Annabeth added as she walked up to join her girlfriend.
Well, without any memories, it's not like he has anywhere else to go.
Nico nodded.
"Good. Let's look for Sam."
Percy
Lying face down in his bed, Percy sighed for probably the one hundredth time into his pillow. Many emotions, none of them positive, coursed through him. His mood was beginning to affect the weather, causing it to rain outside.
(Since he's close to the ocean, Percy can affect the weather like Jason.)
I couldn't find him.
Jason couldn't find him.
Nico couldn't find him.
Will couldn't find him.
Annabeth couldn't find him.
Piper couldn't find him.
None of the nature spirits could find him.
Every person who helped look couldn't find him.
"Sam, where are you?" Percy asked himself.
Where are you?
Are you okay?
Percy shook his head against his pillow.
No...I know that you're not okay.
I know that you're hurting.
I know that you're scared.
I know that you're afraid.
What I don't know I where you are.
Percy's eyes started to tear up.
This...This is all my fault.
I had to be stupid and ask him out loud.
Stupid Percy!
Stupid, stupid, stupid!
I am a seaweed brain!
Percy sighed again, his pillow soaking up his tears.
Beating myself up isn't going to bring Sam back.
I need...I need to do the smart thing and sleep.
I'll have a better chance of finding him if I'm rested.
Percy sighed once more.
Will I see you in my dreams tonight, Sam?
Sam
Sam sat on a flat ledge atop the roof of the Zeus Cabin, leaning against the dome and hidden from view, except that the rain hitting him outlined his form. He felt the ice cold water soaking into his clothing, but he wasn't bothered by it. He was far more bothered by other things.
I fucked up.
I hurt Percy.
Why did that have to happen?
Why am I so...emotional?
Seriously, it's like I feel so strongly about things all the time, and my emotions can affect my Semblance.
And when my Semblance is active without control...I can seriously hurt people.
Especially if it's darkness.
Sam then noticed something odd
Strange...
I can't affect this rain.
Is Poseidon punishing me for hurting Percy?
Sam sighed.
It isn't a harsh enough punishment.
Well...they've stopped looking.
No point in hiding anymore.
Anyone would be able to find me at this point.
Sam stopped manipulating light around himself, becoming fully visible.
Are you looking for me, Poseidon?
Well, here I am.
Sam then laughed slightly.
Oh, that's right, I'm atop the roof of the Zeus Cabin.
Poseidon wouldn't start a war with Zeus just because I hurt his son.
Well, if someone hurt Percy, I'd start a war...
Sam chuckled at the irony.
How does one go to war with one's self?
Sam then detected a nearby presence, and he already knew that it wasn't Jason.
Who's there?
There's several of them.
"Who's that?" a voice asked.
"Aello doesn't know, but he looks tasty," another voice answered.
"Ocypete agrees. Very tasty looking indeed," a third voice said. "Does Celaeno agree with Ocypete and Aello?"
"Yes, Celaeno agrees," the first voice replied.
Sam found the source, seeing three heads peeking over the roof.
"Show yourselves," he ordered, and three creatures flew upwards before landing on the roof.
Harpies?
Oh, that's right, Percy told me that harpies did the cleaning around here.
He also warned me that they eat demigods who sneak out at night.
I am in no mood to be eaten.
"What can I do for you three fine ladies?" Sam asked, his voice dripping with as much sarcasm as the clouds above were dripping rain.
The harpies giggled.
"Ooo, such a gentleman," the center harpy said. "Celaeno likes this one."
Sam mentally shook his head.
Apparently, they don't understand sarcasm.
"Aello agrees," the harpy on the right added. "Must harpies eat him? He's very nice."
"Ocypete agrees, he is very nice," the harpy on the left replied. "But Ocypete is hungry. She hasn't eaten in any tasty demigods in a very long time. Too many follow the rules. Aren't Aello and Celaeno hungry?"
The center harpy nodded.
"Celaeno is hungry. It has been a long time since she's eaten a tasty demigod. How about Aello?"
By this point, Sam had identified each harpy.
"Yes, it has been a long time for Aello," Aello replied. "It has been a long time since she's eaten a tasty demigod."
"Well, I'd hate to disappoint you ladies, but I'm not a demigod," Sam said.
"Then what is he?" Ocypete asked Sam.
Hell if I know.
Sam just shrugged.
"Who knows? I'm not even sure myself."
"But he is still edible, yes?" Aello asked. "Still, such a shame, Celaeno agrees, yes?"
Celaeno nodded.
"Yes, very much a shame."
The harpies' manner of speaking was starting to irritate Sam.
These things are getting on my nerves.
"Would you mind leaving me alone?" Sam asked, trying to contain his irritation. "I'm not in a good mood. I'm...sad."
"Ocypete is sorry, polite not-demigod. Why is he not in a good mood?" Ocypete asked, sounding concerned. "Why is he sad?"
Percy...
"I...I hurt someone that I really care about," Sam answered.
"If he cares, why hurt this someone?" Aello questioned.
Sam sighed, unable to tell if he was crying or if it was just the rain.
"It wasn't on purpose. It was an accident."
"Aello is sorry, polite not-demigod," Aello replied, sounding sincere. "Must harpies eat him? He's very polite and very sad."
Celaeno nodded.
"Yes, Celaeno agrees. He is very polite and very sad. It would be a shame to eat him. Does Aello and Ocypete agree?"
Sam mentally smacked his forehead, tuning out the three harpies as they started to repeat their cycle of questions.
Okay, I really can't take this anymore.
These things are so fucking stupid that it's painful.
Not headache painful, but painful nonetheless.
"Leave," Sam ordered. "I'm not on the menu, so please leave."
Wow, I am being very polite.
"Why isn't he on the menu?" Ocypete asked.
Sam reached his breaking point.
That's it!
"Leave!" Sam ordered, unleashing a wave of his spiritual pressure laced with murderous intent.
The harpies quickly took flight and fled, leaving Sam alone once more.
Finally.
Sam continued to sit in the cold rain.
Percy...
I'm so sorry...
Jason
The son of Jupiter stared at the domed ceiling of his Cabin. Outside, he could hear the sound of rain, and he knew that Percy was the one responsible.
Poor Percy.
He must be miserable.
Hopefully, Sam will show up soon.
Suddenly, Jason felt a wave of pressure laced with killing intent that made him shudder.
Wait...Sam?
Is he on my roof?
Why is he on my roof, and why didn't I see him?
Jason mentally shook his head.
Not really important.
I need to see if he's okay.
Jason flew over to the ladder that led to the top of the ledge on his roof. He opened the trapdoor and peaked outside. He found Sam just sitting in the rain.
Gods, he's soaked.
"Sam?" Jason asked, feeling rather concerned.
Sam turned his gaze towards Jason, his face, for once, not hidden by shadow.
"Oh...hey, Jason," the young prince said in a crestfallen voice.
Clearly not okay.
"What are you doing out here?" Jason questioned.
"Sitting," Sam answered.
I can tell.
"How about we get you out of the rain?" Jason suggested.
Sam simply shrugged and stood, and Jason quickly descended the ladder. When he reached the bottom, he looked up to see Sam closing the trap door before jumping off the ladder and landing behind Jason. Water dripped from his clothes and onto the floor.
He must be cold.
"Do you want to shower and change?" Jason asked.
Sam just shrugged instead of replying.
Not in the mood for words, I see.
Jason pointed towards his bathroom.
"Help yourself. Towels are inside."
Without a word, Sam slinked off towards the bathroom.
"Don't wait up for me."
Sam closed the door behind him.
Well...that was pretty direct.
Jason looked around his Cabin.
At least it has furniture now.
He then looked at his father's (technically?) statue.
"Hey, Dad. Any chance you'd help me out?"
There was no reply, and Jason sighed.
"Yeah, I figured as much."
How would he have helped out anyways?
Well...should I wait for Sam?
He told me not to, and it's not like he's going to talk with me.
Jason flew back up to his bed and floated back into it.
It's strange that I used to have a really hard time with flying.
If it wasn't for those dreams about the Cloudy Wolf, I'd have never remembered.
Speaking of the Cloudy Wolf, I remember that he also had Ingenium.
Sam now has it, and he said that it was a gift, so does that mean that the Cloudy Wolf gave it to him?
Did the Cloudy Wolf also give Sam his pendant and earring?
Furthermore, if Sam has met the Cloudy Wolf, did Sam and I know each other, too?
Jason let out a sigh of frustration.
It's not like I can just ask Sam.
He doesn't remember anything, the poor guy.
I wonder if the Cloudy Wolf is also the one who hurt Sam.
I guess that even if the memories are gone, the feelings still linger.
I feel really bad for him.
I'm also confused as all hell when it comes to my surprisingly strong feelings towards him.
I mean, I thought my feelings for Nico were intense, and unfortunately, I was still dating Piper at the time.
Not that I have any ill will for...Will?
Jason couldn't help but laugh at that.
Will is clearly a great guy.
He's good for Nico, and he'd be a great boyfriend for anyone.
Hell, I like hanging out with him, even if I can't have Nico.
I wouldn't hesitate to protect Will.
Jason then sighed, feeling rather depressed.
Normally, I wouldn't be too bothered by being alone, but that's only when someone doesn't have feelings for someone else.
Nico and Will have each other, and Percy and Sam are pining for each other.
Me?
I have no one...
Jason mentally sighed.
Well...no point in crying over it.
Might as well get some sleep.
Jason
A cool breeze passed through the air as a young son of Jupiter watched the night sky, looking for a sign of the Cloudy Wolf. The sky wasn't completely clear, as clouds littered the sky. He waited in the same spot the Cloudy Wolf had slain the Cyclops.
Lupa said that he shows up here around night.
Is he coming here tonight?
What will I even say if he comes here?
Irritation flashed through Jason.
All he's done is ignore my questions and call me 'Cloud'!
I should come up with a pet name that'll humiliate him!
But...what can I even say about him?
He's strong enough to kill a Cyclops!
Is there anything bad that I can say about him?!
Jason huffed feeling frustrated and impatient.
Maybe he isn't coming tonight...
Maybe he's-...
High above, Jason spotted something falling from the above him cloud at high speed.
Is it him?
It's still pretty far.
The object continued to fall, and Jason saw that it was indeed a person.
That's him!
But...how is he going to land?
He's going way too fast!
But I can't fly well enough to stop him!
Even if I could, I wouldn't be able to catch him without losing an arm or something!
Maybe I can slow him?
Jason then saw that the Cloudy Wolf was carrying his strange blade with what appeared to be an engine of sorts in his right hand. The Cloudy Wolf then threw the sword (seemingly) directly at Jason.
What the...!
Jason reacted on instinct, jumping out of the way as the blade implanted itself in the ground a few feet to his left. His heart pounded in his chest.
Holy crap!
Is he trying to kill me!
Jason looked back above him, but the Cloudy Wolf was gone.
What?!
Where did he go?!
"Good to see you...Cloud," the Cloudy Wolf said, the voice coming from Jason's left.
His head snapped around to see the Cloudy Wolf standing there, the upper half of his face hidden by shadow and his weapon gone.
What just happened?!
The Cloudy Wolf smirked.
"Something wrong? Wolf got your tongue?" he quipped.
Jason quickly shook off his shock.
Get ahold of yourself, Jason.
You're a son of Jupiter.
"Are you trying to kill me?!" Jason shouted, then immediately regretted his outburst.
Nice going, Jason.
Good job keeping yourself calm.
The Cloudy Wolf scoffed.
"Kill you? Oh, please. I wasn't aiming for you. In fact, if you had been stabbed, it would have been your fault for moving into the path of my blade."
The words irked the young son of Jupiter.
He's making fun of me again.
"What's the matter?" the Cloudy Wolf asked. "Did you wet your pants? Didn't mean to scare ya."
Jason suppressed a growl. Instead, he took a quiet but deep breath.
Stay calm, Jason.
"No," Jason answered. "I'm not some coward who can't handle himself."
The Cloudy Wolf simply shrugged.
"If you say so, Cloud."
"Okay, could you stop calling me that?" Jason asked, feeling irritated.
The Cloudy Wolf frowned.
"Why not? What's wrong with clouds? I like clouds."
He likes clouds?
What does that have to do with anything?
Jason snorted and rolled his eyes.
"Oh, please. What's so great about clouds?"
The Cloudy Wolf smiled.
"Hey, clouds are great. They cover the sun on a hot day; they take the most interesting shapes; and they add something special to the sky."
Wait...
Is...Is he saying that he likes me?
The Cloudy Wolf then pointed upwards, and Jason's gaze followed.
"See that cloud that's covering the moon like a thin curtain?" the Cloudy Wolf asked.
Jason nodded.
"Yeah, I see it."
"Tell me that it isn't just beautiful," the Cloudy Wolf said.
Well...it is pretty beautiful.
Nearby, Jason heard Lupa and her pack howling at the moon, and the Cloudy Wolf giggled.
"See? They agree."
Jason returned his attention to the Cloudy Wolf.
So...he isn't making fun of me?
"Do you really want me not to call you Cloud?" the Cloudy Wolf asked. "I thought that it was a good idea in case we became friends."
Jason was quite surprised.
He...wants to be friends?
The Cloudy Wolf then frowned softly.
"I don't have any friends. I won't call you Cloud if it bothers you that much."
He doesn't have any friends?
Poor guy.
"I...suppose that you can call me Cloud if you want to," Jason replied.
The Cloudy Wolf smiled.
"Thanks!"
"What should I call you?" Jason asked. "Can I have your name?"
"Nope," the Cloudy Wolf answered, sounding happy.
Jason frowned.
"Why not?"
The Cloudy Wolf shrugged, still smiling.
"I have my reasons. Call me what you want to."
Jason then began to ponder.
What should I call him?
He won't give me his name, and he said that I can't call him the Cloudy Wolf.
"What if I call you Night?" Jason asked.
"Hmm..." the Cloudy Wolf replied before shaking his head. "Nope."
Jason gave the Cloudy Wolf an incredulous look.
"'Nope'?"
I thought he said that I could call him whatever I want to.
The Cloudy Wolf smiled.
"Nope."
Jason giggled.
"You know, you're not the easiest to talk to."
"Nope," the Cloudy Wolf replied, likely in agreement.
Okay, then what should I call him?
"What about Noctis?" Jason suggested.
The Cloudy Wolf lost his smile.
"No."
That was a huge tone shift.
Why the change in mood?
"But it's Latin for 'Night'," Jason explained.
"I'm well aware, but you can't call me Noctis," the Cloudy Wolf said firmly.
So, he can understand Latin?
Does that mean that he is a demigod?
"Let me guess, reasons?" Jason asked.
The Cloudy Wolf simply nodded in reply.
Jason wracked his brain.
What should I call him?
I feel like I should call him some form of Night.
"How about Nox?" Jason suggested next.
"Nope."
"Nyx?"
"Nope."
He's not making this easy.
"Why are you insistent on calling me some form of Night?" the Cloudy Wolf asked.
Jason shrugged.
"I just think that it fits. Besides, I think that the night is cool."
A name then came to Jason.
I think that I've got it.
"How about Noct?" Jason suggested, hoping that it was good.
"'Noct', huh?" the Cloudy Wolf replied before smiling. "I like it. Alright then, from now on, you are to call me Noct."
Jason felt happy that the Cloudy Wolf (now Noct) accepted his pet name.
Cool!
He likes it!
"Shouldn't you be getting back to your pack, Cloud?" Noct asked.
"Probably," Jason answered. "What about you? Where are you gonna sleep?"
Noct smiled.
"Wanna see?"
Jason nodded and Noct turned around.
"Alright, Cloud. Follow me."
Noct started walking, and Jason followed.
Where are we going?
Percy
Percy sulked as he sat in his bed. The reason — Sam hadn't come back, nor had he shown up in Percy's dreams.
This sucks.
This totally sucks.
Where in the world did Sam go?
Percy sighed, getting out of bed to start getting ready for the day ahead of him.
Hopefully, someone will have found him.
At the very least, I know that he's here.
I felt him in the rain, but since it's not a body of water, I couldn't pinpoint his location.
It was no longer raining outside, but the clouds still hung over the Camp, threatening another downpour at any moment.
I know that people will complain if it starts raining, and they'll either blame me or Jason.
Besides, maybe Sam will be at the dining pavilion for breakfast.
He does have quite the appetite.
Percy stood and walked to his bathroom.
Well, on the bright side, at least Annabeth gave each Cabin it's own bathroom.
I remember that before, when I first came here, that wasn't the case.
Hey, I have to find something to be happy about.
Percy sighed as he turned on his shower.
Sam...where are you?
Are you okay?
Jason
The son of Jupiter awakened in his bed.
Another dream about the Cloudy Wolf.
Apparently, I called him 'Noct'.
How could I forget about that, too?
Jason sat up and stretched, moaning softly at feeling.
Stretching feels nice.
Jason reached under his pillow to grab his glasses. He put them on and looked around and found Sam sitting on a lower bunk, hood up and his legs tucked into his chest and his arms wrapped around his knees.
I guess that he's already awake.
Should I say something?
Will he even talk to me?
"I can feel you staring at me," Sam said. "What do you want?"
Apparently, he is willing to talk.
"Did you sleep well?" Jason asked.
"I didn't sleep," Sam answered.
Jason mentally sighed.
Well...shit.
"Not feeling well?" Jason questioned the young prince.
"What was your first clue?" Sam deadpanned.
Clearly not in a good mood.
"Should I tell Percy where you-..." Jason started.
"No!" Sam interrupted.
Damn.
"He's worried about you, y'know," Jason added.
"I don't wanna talk to him," Sam said pointedly.
"But-..."
"I don't wanna talk to him!"
Jason sighed.
Well...I can't change his mind at the moment.
If he doesn't want to talk with Percy, I can't push him to.
"Reasons?" Jason asked.
Sam simply nodded.
Huh...I'm getting a serious case of Déjà vu.
Probably because of that dream.
"Did you want to get breakfast?" Jason asked.
He has to be hungry.
He has a bigger appetite than Percy.
"No," Sam answered bluntly.
I don't think I'm going to get anywhere with him at the moment.
Jason swung his legs over his bed before sliding to the floor.
"I'm going. I'll bring you something back."
"Don't bother," Sam replied.
Well, he's just as stubborn as Percy.
Jason frowned.
"I insist."
Sam shrugged.
"Suit yourself."
Jason turned around and walked over to his wardrobe. He then opened it. His clothes were (of course) neatly arranged.
What should I wear?
Jason grabbed a pair of jeans and quickly slipped them on. As he did, he looked behind him to see Sam quickly turning his head away.
Was...Was he watching?
Jason suddenly felt oddly flattered.
Why do I feel this way?
Usually, I don't even notice if someone likes me.
In fact, people usually have to point it out.
"Like what you see?" Jason asked, feeling a bit like flirting.
"Shush," Sam replied.
I shouldn't flirt with him.
That's practically taking advantage of his current emotional state.
Jason finished buttoning and zipping his jeans and turned around to grab his purple Camp Jupiter T-shirt. The shirt was more accepted now that the rift between Greek and Roman demigods had been mended, though there still were some tensions between them.
Jason slipped the shirt on before grabbing a sweater next. It wasn't exactly the most stylish, but he liked it because it was comfortable. He wasn't too picky when it came to his looks, as he didn't feel the need to show off his physique (unlike a certain son of Poseidon). He pulled the sweater over his head and pulled his arms through the sleeves before turning to face Sam, who was looking in his direction again.
"You have awful taste," Sam commented.
Jason frowned, looking down at his clothes before looking back at Sam.
I think it looks fine.
"Do you really think so?" Jason asked. "I think that clothes should be comfortable."
"Well, my clothes are comfortable in addition to looking good," Sam quipped.
He's not wrong.
"Clothes are a means of expression. What you wear sends a message, whether you intentionally want it to or not, you're still sending one on a subconscious level. Yours say, 'I don't care'," Sam continued.
Jason was surprised because one, Sam had a point, and two, he was actually talking.
He's right.
I really don't care.
"Don't yours say the same thing?" Jason asked.
Sam smirked slightly.
"Mine say, 'I don't give a fuck'. Big difference."
Jason mentally nodded.
Again, he's not wrong.
Jason then turned around to grab a pair of socks, and he quickly slipped them on, having the balance to do so. He then grabbed his sneakers, kneeling down to put them on. After finishing his task, he stood and faced Sam once more, who was back to his gloomy self.
"Are you certain that you don't want to come with me?" Jason asked. "More than a few campers defended you."
"I still don't want the attention," Sam replied, hugging his legs closer to his chest. "I...I have trouble controlling my Semblance when I'm upset, and in case you couldn't already tell, I'm very upset."
No, I can tell.
"Alright," Jason said as he walked over to the doors. "Try and get some sleep."
Jason opened his doors and stepped outside. He closed them with a sigh.
I hope that he gets some sleep.
He looked up at the storm clouds hanging over the Camp.
Looks like Percy is still upset.
Understandable.
I...I should try and cheer him up.
That's what bestest bros do.
But I can't tell him where Sam is.
What should I do?
Will
"He looks like a baby seal," Will said as he looked at Percy sitting at the Zeus table, pushing around his scrambled eggs with his fork. "A sad, heartbroken baby seal."
"Do you think we should help him?" Nico asked, sounding concerned. "He'll be even sadder if we tell him that we still haven't seen Sam."
He's got a point.
Still, I can't just leave someone alone when they're hurting, and Percy is clearly hurting.
"You don't think that Sam would leave Camp, do you?" Will asked, looking at Nico.
Nico shook his head.
"No, I don't think that he would. As sad as it is, Sam doesn't have anywhere to go. He's probably hiding somewhere nearby."
Yeah, I think that Nico's right.
"Well, let's try and at least give him some hope," Will said. "Do you think telling him that Sam likes him will make him feel better or worse?"
Nico shrugged.
"It's a huge gambit. It could either make him extremely happy or extremely sad. Perhaps even both."
Again, Nico is right.
"Let's try and cheer him up," Will said as he walked over towards the Zeus table.
Nico quickly followed.
I can do this.
Will put on his best smile.
"Hey, Percy," Will said in a cheery tone, taking a seat next to Percy while his boyfriend sat across from him.
"...Hey," Percy replied in a monotone voice.
Geez, he's giving Nico a run for his money for dark and gloomy.
In fact, Nico doesn't really fit that description anymore.
"How are you doing?" Will asked, trying to be friendly.
"Are you here just to bug me, you sun-bug?" Percy asked back.
Hey.
Mean.
"He's just trying to help, Percy," Nico chided.
Percy sighed a depressed sigh.
"I know...Sorry."
Will still smiled.
"It's okay, Percy. I don't mind being a sun-bug if I can bug you into smiling."
Percy let out a short laugh, a small smile playing on his lips, even if for only a brief second.
Will mentally patted himself on the back.
Good job, me.
"Has anyone told you that you have a gorgeous smile?" Will asked. "And before you ask, I'm not hitting on you."
Percy smiled softly.
"Thanks."
Percy then frowned, and Will mentally sighed.
Poor guy.
I wish I could get him to smile for more than a few seconds.
"I'm guessing that Sam still hasn't shown up?" Percy asked.
Nico shook his head.
"No, though I'm pretty sure that he's still here."
"I know that he's still here," Percy said, surprising Will.
"Really? How do you know?" he asked.
"I...felt him in the rain," Percy answered. "I don't where he is, but I at least know that he's still here."
That means that Sam was outside last night in the cold rain.
Hopefully, he isn't sick or something.
"Since when did I become popular?" Jason asked as he took a seat next to Nico.
"Well, a handsome guy like you, why wouldn't you be popular?" Will quipped.
"Oh...thanks, Will," Jason replied, sounding surprised.
He's so oblivious to his own looks.
It's cute.
Not Nico cute, but cute nonetheless.
Will shrugged.
"I calls it like I sees it."
Will then noticed something unusual, Jason had a rather large breakfast.
I don't think I've ever seen Jason eat that much.
"Feeling alright?" Will asked.
Jason nodded.
"Yeah...just feeling a bit hungry today."
Will mentally shrugged.
Well, if he says so.
"Have you seen Sam, Jason?" Nico asked.
"No, I haven't," Jason answered, making Percy sigh.
Poor Percy.
"Someone sounds lovesick," Jason noted, sounding like he was teasing.
"So what if I am?" Percy asked, sounding like he didn't care what anyone thought of him. "I'm in love with Sam. Do you have a problem with that?"
The answer surprised Will, not because he didn't already know but because Percy had admitted out loud to all three of them. From their expressions, Nico and Jason looked as surprised as Will felt.
Well...damn, Percy.
I'm actually kinda proud of you.
Jason quickly shook his head.
"Of course I don't have a problem with it, bro. It's just...why were you upset when I suggested it earlier?"
Percy huffed.
"Because you were being a dick."
Jason nodded.
"Fair enough...But you do like dick, right?"
Will was quite surprised by Jason's behavior.
Wow, Jason is being very...un-Jason like.
Percy blushed so hard that even his ears turned red.
"...Yes."
Damn!
Will saw Nico's jaw drop.
Yeah, I wasn't expecting him to say that either.
"But what does it matter if Sam doesn't like me back?" Percy asked, sulking once more.
"You're wrong, Percy," Nico said suddenly.
Will gave him a surprised look.
Nico, are you going to-...
Nico nodded, indicating that he was.
As long as it helps.
"Percy...I swear on the River Styx that I'm going to tell you the truth about how Sam feels," Nico continued.
Damn, Neeks.
"Sam likes you Percy," Nico explained. "And not in a 'I like you as a friend' kind of way either. He like-likes you. He told me so himself. I'd even go as far as to say that he's in love with you, though I can't speak for him."
Percy looked completely and absolutely lost, and Will could only mentally shake his head.
So clueless.
"Really?" Percy asked after several moments of silence.
Nico smiled.
"I swore, didn't I?"
Percy eyes started tearing up.
Uh-oh.
As tears ran down Percy's face, it started raining lightly.
Come on, Percy, don't be like that.
"Hey, man. Are you happy or sad?" Will asked.
"I don't know!" Percy sobbed.
Probably both.
Will turned towards the son of Poseidon and opened up his arms.
"Percy, come here."
Percy looked at Will with sad eyes.
"Huh?"
"You need a hug before you cause another storm," Will replied. "And I genuinely want to give you one. Now, come here."
Percy hesitated for a second before burying his face into Will's chest, sobbing into it. Will wrapped an arms around the son of Poseidon, and it stopped raining.
He's a total mess on the inside.
And hey, I was right, he's both happy and sad.
"There, there," Will soothed, stroking over Percy's back. "It'll be okay. We'll find Sam, and things will be great."
"W-Why isn't he h-here?" Percy lamented, still crying.
"He's scared, Percy," Nico answered. "He's scared that not only will you not return his feelings, he's also probably scared of hurting you. I hate to say it, but you have to wait until Sam has calmed down enough to talk, and right now, he clearly isn't."
He's not wrong.
Eventually, Percy's crying died down. He then sighed softly into Will's chest, and Will noticed the sun peaking through the clouds.
"Feeling a bit better?" Will asked, and Percy nodded against his chest.
That's good.
Will felt Percy pulling back, so he let go of him.
"Thanks, Will," Percy said. "I needed that."
"Anytime, Percy," Will replied.
Something then occurred to Will — Jason was no longer at the table.
Strange...
When did he leave?
"Did anyone see where Jason went?" Will asked.
Nico and Percy seemed surprised, indicating that they had just realized his absence.
"I...I don't know," Percy said.
Weird.
Jason
Carrying a plate of food, re-entered his Cabin and closed the door behind him. If anything could describe how he felt, awful would be a fitting word.
Poor Percy.
Poor Sam.
Jason looked at Sam, who looked as if he hadn't moved from his spot.
He probably hasn't moved.
"I brought you breakfast," Jason said.
"I'm not hungry," Sam replied in a monotone voice.
Jason sighed.
Nico was right, Sam is terrified.
He's hiding it, but I can tell.
Jason walked over to where Sam sat and set the plate of food next to him on the nightstand.
"I'm not hungry," Sam repeated.
"You don't have to eat now," Jason replied. "Percy's worried about you."
Sam scoffed.
"Probably scared that I'll hurt him again."
Jason shook his head.
"That's not it. Percy...he..."
Should I say it?
Will he even believe me?
I can swear on the River Styx like Nico did, but...
"I don't wanna hear it," Sam said. "I don't want to talk to him."
Jason immediately decided against it.
Nico's right, Sam's not ready.
Jason reached out to Sam.
"Don't touch me!" Sam shouted.
Jason quickly retracted his hand.
I don't think I'm going to get anywhere right now.
He sighed and walked back towards his doors and opened them. He looked back towards Sam.
"Try to eat and get some sleep," Jason said, knowing that Sam likely would do neither.
What should I do?
Seriously, what should I do?
Nico
Inside the arena of the sword fighting area, Nico watched as Percy tried to demonstrate a disarming maneuver. He messed up, dropping his own sword instead.
He can't focus.
He's too distracted by everything.
Nico then mentally shook his head.
No, that's not exactly true.
He's too distracted by one thing in particular.
Did I do the right thing?
Nico looked up into the sky, which, although not completely clear, still allowed the sun to shine through.
I think that I did the right thing.
Nico then sighed out loud.
Still, no one has seen Sam.
I don't know what to do about Percy either.
He clearly isn't in the right frame of mind to be teaching, but he's going to go crazy if he doesn't do something.
Hell, I'm going crazy worrying about my bro.
Nico walked over to Percy, as he dropped his sword again. Nico reached down and picked up Riptide before handing it to Percy. Percy's sparring partner walked away to give them space.
Percy smiled.
"Thanks, man."
Nico smiled back.
"No problem. Why don't you take a break from teaching?"
Percy sighed.
"I can't focus, Neeks. I can't stop thinking about him, but I feel like I'll go crazy if I don't do something."
Nico snorted.
"Welcome to my world."
Percy winced, and Nico regretted his words.
Oops.
I told Percy that we were cool.
"I'm sorry," Nico apologized. "I didn't mean it like that. I just meant that I know what you're going through. I also know what Sam's going through. I think that I might be able to help him, but..."
"We'd have to find him first," Percy finished, and Nico nodded.
"Exactly."
I really suck at comforting people, but Will...
An idea then came to the son of Hades.
Will helped Percy calm down before.
Maybe he can do it again.
"Why don't you help Will out at the infirmary?" Nico suggested. "I'll take care of the sword fighting lessons, and I'm sure that Will could find something for you to do."
Percy nodded, capping Riptide before putting it away.
"I'll take that offer. Thanks, Neeks."
Nico smiled and shrugged.
"No problem, Percy."
Nico watched as Percy walked away.
I hope that Will can help him.
Will
Inside the infirmary, Will watched as Percy tried to help cut bandages.
This is just painful to watch.
Well, painful for several reasons.
"No, Percy, not like that," Will said, trying to direct the son of Poseidon.
Seriously, you'd think that he'd be able to do something as simple as cut bandages.
"Yes, Doctor Solace," Percy grumbled.
Will blushed slightly at being called 'Doctor Solace', feeling somewhat flattered.
Not that I'm going to ever tell Percy that.
As Percy tried to cut another strip of bandages, his hands fidgeted.
Geez, no wonder Nico sent him here instead of having him teach sword fighting lessons.
Still, at this rate, he's never going to get anything done.
Will sighed, walking over to Percy.
"Percy, let me-..."
"I can do it just fine," Percy insisted as he pulled out another roll of white bandages, beginning to cut them into somewhat even strips, but his hands were still fidgeting too much.
Poor guy.
I know why he's like this.
Will got behind Percy, placing his hands on Percy's.
"Will, what are you-..." Percy started to say.
"Just relax, Gorgeous," Will soothed. "Your hands are shaking too much."
To Will's surprise, Percy's hands stopped trembling, and something occurred to Will.
Did I just call Percy 'Gorgeous'?
Will blushed slightly, then mentally shrugged.
Well, he is.
Will directed Percy's hands, helping him cut an even strip.
"There we go," Will said with a smile. "Like that."
Percy sighed.
"Thanks...Sun-bug."
Will blinked.
'Sun-bug'?
Did Percy and I just give each other pet names?
Will's blush deepened and he pulled back from Percy.
Get ahold of yourself, Will.
"Just cut more like that one, okay?" Will asked, regaining his composure.
"Sure thing, Sun-bug," Percy chirped.
Will just shook his head.
Definitely a pet name.
What a dork.
"Give me at least two dozen bandages, Gorgeous," Will ordered, repeating his new pet name for the son of Poseidon.
"Whatever you say, Sun-bug," Percy replied, making Will smile.
Like I said, what a dork.
Jason
A young Jason followed his new friend through the woods. The moonlight made it simple to see.
Is it really okay for me to trust someone who doesn't show his face or give me his name?
Maybe the reason he doesn't have any friends is because he kills them all.
Well, if he was going to kill me, now would be the time.
"Where are we going?" Jason asked.
"It's not much further," Noct answered. "Promise that I'm not gonna kill you, Cloud."
"I wasn't thinking that," Jason retorted.
Noct giggled.
"Nah, you totally were."
Darn it.
"Don't worry. I like you," Noct continued.
He...likes me?
"You do?" Jason asked.
"Of course!" Noct chirped. "I think you're an interesting guy."
Jason laughed.
"Well, I think you're mysterious."
Jason then spotted what looked to be a large abandoned church up ahead. It was made of stone, and parts of the roof were collapsed. Some of the stained glass windows were broken, too.
I've seen this place before.
Lupa told me that it was actually a temple built for the Olympians.
Does he live here?
Then...how does he get all the way up into the clouds?
"Is it safe?" Jason questioned his new friend as they approached the entrance.
There was no door, as it was missing.
"Completely safe," Noct answered, stepping inside.
Well...if he says it's safe, it must be.
Jason mentally shrugged.
Either that, or this is where he kills and buries his victims.
Jason followed Noct inside. The interior had wooden floors and contained crooked rows of old pews. Above were some metal chandeliers that looked like they held might have held candles and large pillars that extended to the ceiling, forming arches against the wall. By the altar at the front, the floor boards were missing, and a bed of white and yellow lilies grew.
Jason looked around in awe.
Wow...
It's...incredible.
"So...what do you think, Cloud?" Noct asked, regaining Jason's attention.
"It's impressive," Jason replied. "Do you live here?"
Noct scoffed, and Jason could feel him rolling his eyes.
"Of course I don't live here. I just hang out here when I wanna get away from home for a little while," Noct explained.
Why does he feel the need to run away from home?
Does he have some sort of troubles going on?
Well, if he's a demigod, that's not surprising.
"Why?" Jason asked, feeling rather curious about his new friend.
"Reasons," Noct answered.
This guy is really mysterious.
Noct then leaned in closer.
What's he doing?
"How'd you get the scar?" Noct asked, touching his own lip.
Jason blushed slightly.
Oh...
That...
"I...Uh...I...tried to eat a stapler when I was two years old," Jason explained, much to his embarrassment.
Noct started giggling uncontrollably upon hearing it.
Mean.
Jason pouted, huffing and crossing his arms.
"Stop laughing."
"That's cute," Noct said after calming down.
Jason raised an eyebrow.
"Cute?"
Noct nodded.
"Yeah, it's cute."
It's weird that he thinks that I'm cute since we're both guys.
Then again, he's a weird guy.
"Can I see your face?" Jason asked.
Noct shook his head with a smirk.
"Nope."
Jason pouted.
"That's not fair. Why do you have to be so mysterious?"
Noct just shrugged.
"Because I like being mysterious. Get used to the enigma that is me."
Jason frowned.
"En...igma?" he said, having trouble with the word.
Noct nodded.
"Yeah, enigma."
"What's that?" Jason asked, as this was his first time hearing the word.
Noct giggled.
"It means 'Mystery'. Sorry, I have a large vocabulary."
Jason smiled.
"Cool. Why, though?"
Noct smiled broadly.
"Because I am a genius."
Jason then heard Lupa howling.
"I think she's calling you back," Noct said.
He's right.
Jason nodded.
"Yeah, she is. I'll see you later, Noct."
His new friend smiled.
"Later, Cloud."
Jason
The son of Jupiter opened his eyes, finding himself in his bed.
Another dream about Noct.
He sat up and stretched.
Why can't I just remember everything?
Did Noct ever show me his face?
Did he ever give me his real name?
We were friends, weren't we?
Jason reached for his glasses on his nightstand, deciding to sleep on a lower bunk last night. He put them on before looking at Sam, who was still in the exact same position as he had been in the day before. There were several plates of food next to him, completely untouched.
Has he even moved?
Jason then noticed that the glasses were empty.
Well...at least he's been drinking.
"Good morning," Jason said.
Sam turned his gaze towards Jason, and Jason could see dark circles under his eyes. His eyes were bloodshot, but whether from lack of sleep or crying, Jason couldn't tell. It was a depressing and heartbreaking sight.
Gods, Sam...
"Morning..." Sam finally replied.
Apparently, 'Good' isn't part of his morning.
Understandable.
"Get any sleep?" Jason asked as he stood, though he already knew the answer.
Sam turned his head away, not answering.
What should I do?
I don't know what to do.
Should I tell him about the Cloudy Wolf?
It might make things better, but it might also make things worse.
Sam let out a depressed sigh, Jason decided that telling him might help.
It's worth a shot.
"I...I know what the Cloudy Wolf means," Jason said, regaining Sam's attention.
"What does it mean?" Sam asked.
This is the most active I've seen him.
"The Cloudy Wolf is a person," Jason answered.
Sam raised an eyebrow.
"And how do you know that?"
"I had a dream about him," Jason explained. "Back when I was training with Lupa at the Wolf House, there was a young boy around my age that Lupa dubbed the Cloudy Wolf. He wasn't part of the pack, but...I think that we were friends, he and I. I'm just remembering this now, mind you."
Sam nodded.
"I see."
"You said that your necklace, earring, and Ingenium were gifts, right?" Jason asked. "Do you think that maybe the Cloudy Wolf gave them to you?"
Sam shrugged.
"Perhaps. It would make sense."
The young prince then turned his head away, rested it on his knees, and sighed once more.
Poor guy.
I wish I could tell him more.
Jason stood, walking towards his wardrobe to grab new clothes for the day. After finishing getting dressed, he turned back towards Sam, who still had his head resting against his knees.
No comment on my outfit?
"Sam?" Jason asked.
No reply.
Jason walked closer to the young prince.
"Sam?" he repeated, but there was still no reply.
Jason reached out a hand, expecting Sam to yell at him, but Sam didn't say anything.
Is he okay?
Jason placed a hand on Sam's back, who instead of replying, just sighed again. Jason then noticed a steady rhythm to Sam's breathing.
He's...asleep?
Sam's steady breathing gradually became deeper, confirming Jason's suspicions, and he breathed out a sigh of his own.
Thank the gods, he's finally asleep.
He's been awake over forty eight hours, so I'm glad that he fell asleep before he started hallucinating from a lack of sleep.
Plus, he hasn't eaten anything, and he usually eats a ton, so he must be exhausted.
Hopefully, he'll be willing to eat when he wakes up.
But...shouldn't I move him?
He can't be comfortable.
Jason grabbed one of Sam's Arms to unwrap it from his legs. As he pulled, Sam growled softly, and Jason quickly let go.
Shit, did I wake him?!
Jason's heartbeat increased as he held his breath. When he noticed that Sam's breathing was still steady, he let out a sigh of relief.
Thank the gods, he's still asleep.
Looks like I'm not moving him at the moment.
Jason then looked at the plates of untouched food.
I should probably replace those.
I doubt he'll be awake after breakfast, so maybe I should bring him lunch.
Jason grabbed the plates of food before leaving his Cabin.
Percy
At a new Poseidon table, Percy sighed as he stared at his half eaten slice of blue pizza.
Still no sign of Sam.
Not even dreams of Sam.
Gods...I'm not sure how much more I can take!
"I'm guessing that you're sighing because of Sam?" Will asked as he and Nico sat down.
"Why else?" Percy grumbled, feeling depressed.
(Yeah, that's an understatement.)
"He'll show up eventually, Percy," Nico said in a soothing tone.
But, what if...
Fear coursed through Percy.
No...
"What if he's gone missing like the other campers?" Percy asked.
Nico shook his head.
"I don't think Sam is the type of person who could be captured without a fight, which would have drawn attention. I also don't think he could have been lured away, as he seems to have immunity to magic that could have led to that."
That...makes sense.
He's probably right.
Does that mean that one of the other Cabins is hiding Sam?
Who would do that?
Percy contemplated the options.
I already know that Chiron isn't hiding him.
I know that Piper wouldn't hide him, and Sam would never stay in the same Cabin as Drew.
Annabeth is also out of the question.
Nico might, but...that would mean that Sam would come between him and Will, so that's unlikely.
The Ares Cabin?
Percy mentally shook his head.
No, I doubt think that Sam would like it there, just because it's crowded.
Plus, Isaac would want him to finish his gauntlets, and I haven't seen Sam at Bunker Nine.
Who else might do it?
Percy looked around and caught Jason walking away, carrying a plate of food.
I think I found my answer.
Percy stood.
"Going somewhere?" Will asked.
Should I tell them?
Percy decided against it.
No, best not.
"I just needed to talk with Jason," Percy answered.
It's technically true.
"Go ahead," Will said, and Percy nodded.
"Later, guys."
"Later, Percy," Nico and Will replied.
Without rushing, Percy left. He decsendeded the stairs of the dining pavilion, looking for Jason.
Where is he?
Percy spotted him up ahead, already near the Cabins.
Found him!
Percy ran after the son of Jupiter as no one was around. He rounded the Zeus Cabin just as Jason was at the doors.
"Hey, bro!" Percy called out, making Jason pause.
Jason turned around, looking surprised.
"Oh, hey, Perce. What's up?"
You know exactly what's up.
I'm not in the mood for games.
"He's inside, isn't he?" Percy asked, more statement than question.
Jason expression was of someone caught red-handed. He sighed.
"Yes, he is."
Knew it.
"And the food is for Sam," Percy said, and Jason nodded.
"It is."
I have to know.
"How...How is he?" Percy asked.
Jason's expression became somber.
"He's not eating, and he's barely said anything. He just fell asleep this morning."
Percy's heart ached.
Gods, Sam...
I need to see him.
"I want to see him," Percy said.
Jason shook his head.
"He just fell asleep, Percy."
"Then I'll wait for him to wake up," Percy said firmly.
Jason frowned.
"He doesn't want to talk to you, Percy."
The words stung more than Percy had ever felt.
He...doesn't want to talk with me?
Even compared to Gorgon's blood, the pain Percy currently felt outstripped it by leagues.
No...I have to talk to him.
If I don't...I'll go crazy!
I'll combust like Leo!
I have to at least see him!
"Then at least let me see him," Percy said.
"No."
Something inside Percy snapped.
"Well, why the fuck not?!" Percy growled. "Do you understand what he's going through?! Did you actually feel what he feels?! I did, Jason!"
"And you're part of that reason he feels the way he does, Percy!" Jason snapped back. "The reason he doesn't want to talk with you is because he scared of you!"
"Then let me fix it, Jason!" Percy shouted back. "I know that I overreacted, but if you don't let me fix it, he' not going to get any better!"
Jason shook his head.
"He'll talk to you when he's ready! Nico told you when he was ready, and it's the same for Sam!"
"It's not the same, Jason!" Percy argued. "I wasn't in love with Nico at the time!"
Jason's expression became puzzled.
"What?"
Percy then thought about what he just said.
Oops.
Yeah, I realize how that might have sounded.
I mean, I definitely like Nico, and I think he's cute, but...
Percy mentally shook his head.
Never mind.
"What I meant is that their situations aren't the same. Sam's in love with me, and I feel the same way," Percy explained.
"I still don't think it's a good idea, Percy," Jason replied. "You can't just expect Sam to suddenly be okay. He doesn't want to talk to you."
Why does this guy always have to try and be 'reasonable'?!
"And you can't expect him to just get better! Just because he doesn't want to talk to me doesn't mean that he doesn't want to see me!" Percy shouted.
"It's the same thing, Percy!" Jason argued. "If he doesn't want to talk to you, that also means that he doesn't want to see you!"
I've had enough of this!
Percy moved towards the entrance of the Zeus Cabin, but Jason immediately blocked his path.
"Get out of my way," Percy growled.
"No," Jason growled back.
Does he think that standing in my way will stop me?
Percy shoved Jason aside, causing him to drop the plate of food, its contents spilling onto the ground. As Percy reached for the door, a bolt of static electricity leaped from the door to his hand. Percy hissed and pulled his hand back; turning his head, he found Jason's hand was touching the door.
"Did...Did you just shock me?" Percy asked, slightly shocked (pun totally intended) that his bro would go to such lengths.
"I told you no, Percy," Jason said firmly. "This is my Cabin, and that means that you can't just come and go as you please."
That's it!
Percy drew Riptide from his pocket and uncapped it.
"You wanna go?"
Jason drew his gladius.
"If I have to beat some sense into you, I will."
Percy hesitated.
I don't want to hurt Jason...
I hoped that he'd back off but...
Percy lowered Riptide and sighed.
"Please, Jason..." Percy pleaded. "I'm hurting, too."
Jason lowered his gladius.
"I know, Percy. Can you wait for just one more night?"
Can I?
Percy nodded.
Do it for Sam, Percy.
"I can-..." Percy started to say when he noticed something.
Holy shit, how in the world did we not notice that?!
Is that...Apollo?!
"Uh...Jason?" Percy asked as he pointed to a giant Celestial Bronze statue of Apollo looming towards the Camp. "Am I hallucinating, or is that Apollo with a neck beard?"
Jason frowned.
"What are you tal-..." Jason started but then stopped short as he turned his head. "Holy shit, how in the world did we miss that?!"
Oh, look, an echo.
"Think we should talk about this later?" Jason asked.
"No shit, Sherlock," Percy answered.
Jason turned back towards Percy.
"Need a lift?"
Oh, hell no.
Percy shook his head head. He reached into his pocket with his free hand and pulled out a whistle made of Stygian Ice.
Christmas present from Nico.
He gave me quite a few of them, too.
"You stay here and protect Sam," Percy said.
Jason nodded instead of arguing.
Time to call Mrs. O'Leary.
Sam
The young prince opened his eyes slowly.
Did I...fall asleep?
Sam lifted his head from his knees and looked around. He noted that the food was gone.
Where did Jason go?
Did I fall asleep while he was getting dressed?
Sam mentally nodded to himself.
Yeah, that's probably what happened.
Sam then noticed something.
Is that...shouting?
What's going on?
Sam released his legs and swung them over the bed. As he stood, he wavered slightly.
Shit, not now!
I need strength!
Sam then noticed his brand starting to glow brighter until it's image manifested on his sleeve. He felt strength returning to his body.
I'm not hungry anymore.
It's not one hundred percent, but it'll do.
Sam slipped his shoes on before walking over to the Cabin doors.
Time to find out what's going on.
Sam opened one of the doors to find Jason waiting outside, gladius in hand.
Is he guarding me?
"What's going on?" Sam asked.
Jason's head snapped towards Sam.
"Sam? What are you doing awake? Go back inside, it's dangerous."
Did he just give me an order?
"Explain what's going on," Sam ordered instead before finding a giant moving statue attacking, with a ship's rudder, a faint silver barrier around the Camp. "Never mind."
Looks like we're under attack from sentient garbage.
A loud sound reverberated through the air, and in a sliver flash, the barrier collapsed.
Uh-oh.
The giant moving statue brought its foot up over the dining pavilion.
Oh, hell no!
Sam grabbed his black blade Noctis from the air before throwing it towards the leg. In a blue flash, Sam vanished and reappeared by the leg, grabbing his blade with his right hand. He focused his Aura into his left hand before slamming his fist into the giant's leg, unleashing his Aura like a bomb. The result — the force of the blow knocked the giant's leg back, leaving a huge dent in it.
The blow also knocked Sam in the opposite direction, and he grabbed Ingenium from the air and threw it towards the ground in the same direction he was going. The blade caught the ground and Sam's feet made contact with the back of the blade, sliding back several yards before coming to a stop. Sam then stood atop Ingenium, glaring at the automaton, and a blue aura rippled over Sam's body with a sound akin to electricity.
Shit, my Aura reserves are low.
Worthless piece of junk.
Who's responsible for this?!
"Hey, Bronze Ass!" a voice shouted from atop the automaton.
Percy?
Sam then saw Percy sliding down the automaton's brow, and Sam quickly grabbed Dicere from the air, changing it into its javelin form. He threw Dicere whilst firing it, and it flew towards Percy, pining him to the automaton's brow by the hood of his hoodie.
Percy looked down at Sam, looking surprised.
"Thank you!" Percy called.
Sam waved back awkwardly.
"I'm sorry!"
(For pinning him to a walking statue's brow.)
Sam then warped to the top of the automaton's head before reaching down and pulling Dicere out, and Percy along with it. Sam then lifted him up.
"Looky what I caught. A Percy," Sam quipped, unable to help himself.
Sam then brought Percy onto the top of the automaton's head before letting Dicere vanish.
"Sam...can we-..." Percy started to say before Sam involuntarily turned away.
"Not now, Percy," Sam said, still not wanting to talk about what happened.
Seriously, not now.
Suddenly, something licked Sam's face.
What the...?
Sam turned to find a giant hellhound looking at him.
"Erm...hi?" Sam said awkwardly.
The hellhound barked in reply, wagging it's tail.
It's...surprisingly cute.
"Hey!" a voice shouted.
Sam turned to see Austin (they've met) on a chariot pulled by pegasi with Apollo and Kayla. He glared at Apollo.
"Alright, who's responsible unleashing this piece of sentient garbage? Apollo, did you do this?"
"Why, I am offended, Samuel!" Apollo cried.
Sam mentally rolled his eyes.
I don't give a flying fuck!
"I am only indirectly responsible for this! Also, I have a plan to fix it," Apollo continued.
"Well, let's hear it," Sam replied, feeling very impatient.
"Can't you just destroy this thing?" Percy asked Sam.
"If I was at full strength, yes," Sam answered. "But I'm running on fumes here."
Seriously, less than fumes.
"If you could please just keep this Colossus from stomping the camp's hearth, that would be helpful. I need a few more minutes to enchant this arrow," Apollo explained, holding up a perfectly good arrow before setting it down and holding up a crooked one.
Sam and Percy sighed.
"Of course you do," they replied simultaneously.
The hellhound barked in alarm, and Sam noticed a hand coming towards them. Anchoring himself to the Colossus' head with his Aura, Sam kicked the hand away whilst firing Impetus.
"Tch. This thing is annoying."
Percy sliced one of the Colossus' spikes from its head before jamming it into its forehead, causing it to stagger back.
Nice one.
Percy then sliced off another piece.
"Hey, ugly!" he called down. "You don't need all these pointy things, do you? I'm going to take one to the beach. Mrs. O'Leary, fetch!"
'Mrs. O'Leary'?
Like an athlete thowing a javelin, Percy tossed the spike, and the hellhound barked excitedly. She leaped off the Colossus's head, vanished into shadow, and reappeared on the beach, bounding after the spike like it was a stick.
Sam looked at Apollo.
"Get enchanting!" he ordered as Percy jumped from the statue's head to its shoulder.
He then leaped to the shaft of the rudder and slid down it like a fire pole all the way to the ground.
Not bad.
Sam leaped off the front of the automaton's head whilst doing a front flip, ramming his foot into the spike in the giant's forehead, driving it further in. He then grabbed Dicere from the air in its javelin form and threw it towards the beach while firing, sending it to the ground quickly. Sam warped to his weapon, pulling it from the ground and placing the javelin across his shoulders.
"Hey, Bronze Ass!" Sam shouted, gaining the automaton's attention. "Yeah, I'm talking to you, you ugly piece of sentient garbage! Come get me!"
The Colossus obliged, heading towards Sam, but Percy got there first.
"Are you okay?" Percy asked, sounding as concerned as he looked.
Not really.
Sam nodded.
"I'm fine," he lied.
"You don't look fine," Jason said as he landed next to them. "You look like you're at your limit."
The Colossus drew closer.
At my limit, huh?
A blue aura blazed around Sam's body as he drew past his reserves, surprising both Percy and Jason.
"Sam...what are you-..." Percy started to say.
"BREAKING MY LIMIT!" Sam shouted before launching himself at the statue's face.
He manifested Audite on his left arm before ramming the shield into the automaton's face, causing it to stagger back. Sam then stabbed Dicere into its face before swinging onto the javelin. He grabbed Ingenium from the air with his right hand and leaped off, slicing another spike from the Colossus' head. Sam let his weapons and shield vanish while grabbing the spike and jamming it into the automaton's torso.
Sam then felt himself tiring.
Shit, not now!
"Look out!" Percy shouted, but too late, Sam noticed an oversized hand coming towards him.
Shit...
Sam managed to equip Audite onto his right arm before the hand swatted him away, but even with his enhanced abilities, with Aura reserves depleted, the blow still hurt. Sam flew towards the sea, hitting the water at high speed, and pain seared throughout his entire body.
Fuck, that hurt!
Sam sank beneath the water, in too much pain to move.
Shit...
Shit, shit, shit!
Move!
Move, Sam!
Sam then noticed something strange. He wasn't breathing underwater, but he didn't really feel the need to breath. He immediately decided that he didn't like the feeling.
This is...uncomfortable.
Sam then felt himself inside an air bubble, and he gasped for breath anyways.
That's so much better.
Percy?
Did he do this?
Sam looked up, but didn't find Percy. Instead, he found a man with a peppered beard wearing a naval uniform. He did have the same sea green eyes as Percy, but the presence he gave off didn't quite match.
This isn't Poseidon.
This is Neptune.
"Hello, Samuel," Neptune greeted him with a friendly smile.
"Uh...hi?" Sam greeted him back.
Why is he here, and why did he save me?
Is he going to make me pay for hurting Percy?
If so...why Neptune instead of Poseidon?
"It's nice to finally meet you," Neptune said. "I would have liked to greet you as Poseidon, but he doesn't have what you need at the moment."
Nice to meet me?
Something that I need?
What could that be?
I don't get anything.
Neptune then manifested a trident, but Sam could tell that it wasn't his own.
That's a Royal Arm!
Sam mentally frowned.
Why does Neptune have a Royal Arm?
The trident was silver. The three teeth were black. The central tooth was longer than the other two with silver running through the middle, and the bottom ended in a fin-like spike with three additional hook-like shapes along the shaft near the top. Also, a golden cord was wrapped around the upper portion of the trident.
"I believe that this belongs to you," Poseidon said, releasing the trident.
Sam reached out to it, and the trident flashed and turned into crystal. It pointed at Sam and flew into him into him, stabbing him. It had vanished and reappeared around Sam along with Noctis, Aurora, and Ignis other, all appearing in crystalline form. Crystals floated around Sam as the the weapons spun around him. The weapons continued to circle Sam before bursting into light and vanishing.
Oraculum (Oracle), huh?
Mind lending me your strength?
Sam then felt something.
Oh?
Looks like I've gained a new ability.
Or rather, an increase to an ability I already have.
Armiger (Armed), huh?
Let's see what I can do now.
Percy
With Chiron and Apollo, the son of Poseidon ignored the other campers jeering at the Colossus, more worried about Sam. Jason searched above the waters looking for him.
Shit, is he okay?!
He hasn't come back up yet!
He just got smacked by a giant hand!
(Cue the music.)
Suddenly, a column of water burst from the sea. As the water came sank back into the sea, Sam came into view, hovering in the air. Sam glowed blue and vanished before reappearing in front of Percy, holding a trident.
That isn't Dad's trident.
"How's that enchanted arrow coming?" Sam asked as his trident vanished.
"It's ready," Apollo replied.
Chiron handed Apollo his bow.
"Make the shot."
Apollo looked at the Centaur as if he'd gone insane.
"This is meant for the strength of a Centaur, not a teen mortal!"
Sam scoffed.
"Wimp."
Percy mentally nodded in agreement.
He's right.
"You created the arrow," Chiron said. "Only you can shoot it without succumbing to the disease. Only you can hit such a target."
"From here? It's impossible!" Apollo complained. "Where is that flying boy, Jason Grace?"
I'm not letting my bro anywhere near that thing!
I saw what it did to Austin and Kayla.
Percy wiped the sweat and sand from his neck.
"Jason is busy, and all the pegasi have stampeded."
"Perhaps if we got some harpies and some kite string..." Apollo said.
Are you fucking kidding me?!
"Apollo," Chiron said, "you must do this. You are the lord of archery and illness."
"Just give the arrow to me," Sam said. "I'm probably immune to it."
I'm not taking that risk.
Chiron shook his head.
"You may very well be, but it's not entirely certain. Apollo must do this."
"I'm not lord of anything!" Apollo wailed. "I'm a stupid ugly mortal teenager! I'm nobody!"
Geez, what a whiner.
Percy put his hand on said whiner's shoulder.
"You're Apollo. We need you. You can do this. Besides, if you don't, I will personally throw you off the top of the Empire State Building."
"No way," Sam added. "I've got dibs on doing that."
He's right.
He kinda does got dibs.
"How about we both toss him?" Percy suggested, hoping that Sam would continue talking with him.
Sam smirked softly.
"I can accept that," he said before looking at Apollo. "Well, looks like either you do it, or Percy and I are tossing you from the top of the Empire State Building."
That would be an interesting first date.
Apollo squared his shoulders.
"Right."
"We'll draw him into the water," Percy said. "I have the advantage there. Good luck."
"I'll keep him distracted," Sam added.
How is he going to do that?
"You have any Aura left?" Percy asked.
Sam shook his head.
"Not enough to use my Semblance, but I've got something else."
Percy raised an eyebrow.
"And what's that?"
In a burst of blue light, Sam's Royal Arms surrounded him in crystalline form, in addition to his trident.
"Armiger," he answered.
Sam jumped high into the air before hovering. His weapons pointed at the Colossus before flying towards it; they struck the automaton, staggering it. Sam warped onto the water's surface.
I can't let him do this alone!
"Let's help out!" Percy shouted.
Chiron offered Percy a hand, and Percy took it, getting on the Centaur's back.
"Hey, Bronze Ass!" Percy shouted, gaining the automaton's attention. "Follow me!"
The automaton followed as Chiron galloped through the tide.
No lightning, Jason!
I know that you have great control, but don't risk it!
Percy looked back to see Sam's Royal Arms raining down upon the automaton in a constant cycle; with each stab, they would disappear before reappearing and coming down again.
I haven't seen him do that before.
Sam then warped ahead of them, facing the automaton, his crystal weapons pointed towards it. The weapons flew towards the Colossus at high speed, staggering it once more.
Damn!
Sam warped towards the Colossus, grabbing Noctis and Aurora and unleashing a flurry of strikes upon it while his Ignis and his trident kept raining down in a constant cycle. Each slash left a gash that glowed white hot from the friction. The Colossus tried to smack Sam away again, but Sam warped away and into the tide. He was panting heavily.
I'm not sure how much longer he can keep this up.
Where's the damn arrow?!
Percy looked to see Apollo lining up his shot.
Take the fucking shot!
Apollo loosed his arrow, but as it flew, it drifted too far towards the right.
It's not going to make it!
Apparently, Sam noticed this as well; he warped into the air and grabbed the arrow.
No!
Sam then warped to the Colossus' left ear and threw the arrow inside before jumping away, still hovering in the air, his crystal weapon circling around him.
I thought he said that he didn't have enough Aura to use his Semblance.
Percy heard the arrow rattling around in the automaton's head. The Colossus paused, looking towards the horizon with a befuddled expression. He then looked at the sky before arching his back and lurching forward, making a sound akin to a tornado tearing off the roof of a warehouse. Motor oil sprayed out of his ears, narrowly missing Sam and landing in the sand dunes.
Did it just sneeze?
What kind of plague did Apollo give it?
The Colossus inhaled several times once more, pulling the air in through his ears.
Here we go again.
The Colossus rocked forward with a mighty sneeze, and...his head launched from his body like a rocket.
Damn.
It flew over Long Island Sound, the face spinning in and out of view. It then hit the water with a mighty splash, bobbing for a moment before the the seawater displaced the air out of its neck hole, and it sank beneath the waves.
That's something you don't see everyday.
The decapitated Colossus rocked and swayed.
Uh-oh.
As the statue fell forwards, Percy exclaimed a string of curses that would make a sailor blush. The Colossus crashed into the sea, creating forty foot tidal waves port and starboard that Chiron rode surprisingly well.
Nice.
Percy then looked towards Sam, who's crystal weapons vanished in a burst of light before he started to fall. Luckily, Jason managed to slow his descent before catching him.
Thanks, bro.
Percy climbed off of Chiron before looking at the ruined automaton.
What should I do about this?
An idea then came to Percy.
Maybe my dad can do something with it.
He's always wanted a statue of himself in Atlantis.
Not because he has a big ego (his is considerably smaller than Zeus'), mind you, but just as a reminder to lesser gods that it is his city.
Percy chuckled to himself.
Time to go Auqaman.
Sam
Percy spent the next several hours recruiting hippocampi and whales in order to help him haul away the remains of the Colossus. According to what Percy told everyone, it would be repurposed as a garden statuary in Poseidon's palace. Sam didn't particularly care what was done with it, so long as he didn't have to deal with any automaton's anytime soon. Sherman also agreed not to kill Apollo for damaging his chariot or Nico for tossing him out.
(Though the mutual death glares that Nico and Sam had shot the son of Ares when he brought it up might have had a part in that.)
Overall, the damage to Camp Half-Blood had been minimized thanks to Sam's intervention, something that made everyone far less wary of him. More than a few of them had offered an apology, as well as thanks, something for which Sam was quite grateful. Fortunately for Sam, he proved immune to the Apollo's plague; unfortunately for just about everyone else, that wasn't the case, coming down with hay fever.
Will's healing and a hot meal helped the demigods who had gone missing make a speedy recovery while Chiron provided healing poultices to those with more severe cases of hay fever. Currently, Sam was making quick work of a meal that could have (originally) fed five people. Strangely, he didn't feel hungry until he started eating, and then his appetite returned with a vengeance. He had his hoodie wrapped around his waist, revealing a heavily bruised right arm, and Paolo Montes was waving his Brazilian flag bandanna over the young prince as he ate, much to Sam's annoyance.
That's it!
"Dude, get lost!" Sam ordered, making the son of Hebe yelp and bolt.
"He's just trying to help," Jason said, sitting across from Sam.
Sam just sighed.
"I know that, but it's like he thinks his bandanna has magical powers, which it absolutely does not."
Sam looked at his right arm, which was already beginning to heal.
"And here I thought Paolo healed quickly," Will said as he and Nico joined them. "I think that you could give him a run for his money."
Sam looked at Will.
Geez, he looks exhausted.
Nico, too.
"Like I said, I have a large reserve of Aura," Sam replied. "Now that it's recovered, so has my self-healing abilities."
But is my Aura the only reason?
Where did that sudden burst of energy from earlier come from?
Furthermore, how was it that I didn't feel the need to breathe?
Sam mentally shook his head.
Whatever it was, that was just unpleasant.
I much prefer having an appetite, feeling sleepy, and having breathe.
It makes me feel more...normal, I suppose.
I feel like I should know, but the answer seems just out of my reach.
Anyways...
"You guys look exhausted," Sam said to Nico and Will.
Nico snorted.
"Look who's talking."
"You all look exhausted," Jason commented.
Sam and Nico shared a look, then grinned, thinking the same thing.
Looks like we're on the same wavelength.
"We look awesome," Sam retorted, and he and Nico shared a high five.
Will chuckled.
"Looks like you're feeling better, Sam."
Considerably.
"I am," Sam replied.
Should I?
"Where...Where's Percy?" Sam asked rather hesitantly.
"He's probably still at his dad's palace, but he should be back tonight," Jason answered. "Why do you ask?"
"I think...I think I'm ready to talk to him," Sam replied.
"Are you ready to tell him how you feel?" Nico asked.
Am I?
"I...I don't know," Sam answered.
"I have a suggestion," Will said.
Sam raised an eyebrow.
"A suggestion? I'm listening."
What is he going to suggest?
Will smiled.
"How about a game of Truth or Dare?"
Sam initial reaction was to say no, but he then thought over it.
That...actually might work.
It might give me the push I need to tell Percy how I feel.
Sam sighed and nodded.
"I think that could work."
"Fantastic!" Will exclaimed cheerfully. "We'll do it tomorrow night, and this time, we're having a slumber party."
Sam couldn't help but giggle.
"If you insist."
Will placed a hand on Sam's shoulder.
"Trust me. Everything is going to work out just fine."
Sam took comfort in Will's touch and words.
I get the feeling that I can trust Will.
"Alright...I'll trust you," Sam replied.
Don't make me regret it, Will.
Notes: Sam's latest Royal Arm is the Trident of the Oracle from Final Fantasy XV, called Oraculum here.
Also, why does the Cloudy Wolf refuse to be called Noctis? It actually has nothing to do with his Royal Arm of the same name.
The church that Jason dreams about is a reference to Final Fantasy VII.
I made a ton of references in this chapter.