Summary: It's about time. Nuff said.
Notes: I use the songs This Will be the Day by Jeff Williams and Stand by Me by Florence + The Machine. Give them a listen if you haven't heard them.
Chapter 11: This Will be the Day
Percy
The son of Poseidon watched as his siblings, the Cyclopes, dragged the headless automaton away, ready to repurpose it into a statue of his father.
Percy nodded to himself.
Well, I did what I came here to do.
He then turned to leave.
"Percy!" a familiar voice called.
Percy smiled.
I recognize that voice.
He turned around to see Tyson running towards him. His brother embraced him in a bear hug, and Percy laughed.
"Hey, Little Bro. What's up?"
It still feels like he's going to crush me.
I wonder who would win in an arm wrestling match between Sam and Tyson.
Tyson set his older brother down.
"How's your boyfriend?" Tyson asked.
Wait, what?
Percy frowned.
Did he say, 'boyfriend'?
Why in the world does Tyson think I have a boyfriend?
He probably doesn't know that Annabeth and I broke up, but he knows that Annabeth is a girl.
Tyson can be rather innocent, but he isn't stupid.
"Erm...I don't have a boyfriend, Tyson," Percy replied awkwardly.
Yet.
Tyson looked very puzzled.
"Really? Daddy says that you do."
This time, Percy was the one who looked puzzled.
Wait...what?
"Why is Dad saying that I have a boyfriend?" Percy asked, feeling very much confused.
Tyson shrugged.
"I don't know. He says that he's seen you making heart eyes at someone named Samuel."
The words shocked Percy.
What?!
How does he know that?!
"What are heart eyes, Percy?" Tyson asked innocently. "Are they eyes made of hearts?"
The question completely flew over Percy's head as he began to grow rather nervous.
How much of my life is my dad watching?!
Does he know about my dreams, too?!
Did he see me jacking off?!
Oh, gods, how embarrassing!
"Percy, why is your face turning red?" Tyson questioned, giving Percy a curious look.
Huh?
Percy regained his composure.
Right, Tyson is talking to me.
Get it together, Percy.
"I'm just thinking about...my...erm...boyfriend," Percy answered, not wanting to correct his brother because of his hope. "Like when you think about Ella, doesn't your face feel warm?"
Tyson blushed, a giddy smile playing on his lips.
"Oh, you're right. Is my face red?"
Percy chuckled and nodded.
"It is."
He's such an endearing guy.
I wonder how my little sister will turn out.
"Oh, by the way, Daddy wants to talk to you," Tyson said.
Dad wants to talk to me?
Percy raised an eyebrow.
"Really? About what?"
Tyson just shrugged again.
"I don't know. Something is different about Daddy. He seems like Daddy, but he doesn't at the same time."
Percy's curiosity was piqued.
Dad is different?
I wonder...
"I'll see what he wants," Percy replied, then held out his right fist. "Later, Big Guy."
Tyson bumped his fist.
"Bye, Percy. Don't forget to visit, and stay alive. I like it when you're alive."
"I intend to," Percy answered with his signature grin.
Tyson left, running along the floor despite being underwater, and Percy swam through the palace, admiring it.
It looks like they've managed to repair everything, and even better than before.
Well, let's see what Dad wants.
Percy swam up to the large doors leading to the throne room.
Should I knock?
"Enter," a voice said, and Percy hesitated.
Was that Dad?
It sounded similar, but not quite.
Percy shook it off and pushed the doors open to find someone who looked very similar to Poseidon waiting for him, but he was dressed in a naval uniform.
"...Dad?" Percy asked feeling rather nervous.
The man smiled at him.
"Hello, Percy."
This isn't my dad.
This is Neptune.
Percy hesitated, unsure what to do with himself.
What should I do?
Should I bow?
Neptune seemed to realize Percy's hesitant behavior.
"Oh, sorry," he apologized before shifting into the form Percy was familiar with.
His naval uniform was replaced with his usual Tommy Bahama shirt khaki Bermuda shorts, and baseball cap with fishing hooks.
Yeah, the vibe is similar but distinctly different.
This is my dad.
"Hello, Son," Poseidon greeted Percy, his smile considerably friendlier than Neptune's.
(Not that it was exactly unfriendly.)
Percy relaxed and smiled back.
"Hey, Dad."
Percy swam up to his father and gave him a hug, which Poseidon returned.
"Good to see you, Percy."
The two ended their embrace and pulled apart.
"You wanted to talk to me?" Percy asked.
Poseidon nodded.
"Yes, I did. How are things going?"
Percy smiled.
"Great! Just managed to defend Camp Haf-Blood from...Well, I suppose you already know."
"I do."
Just how much does he know?
"Erm...Why is Tyson saying that I have a boyfriend?" Percy asked, feeling somewhat uncomfortable.
Poseidon laughed warmly.
"He said that? Ah, I must have misspoken."
Poseidon then placed a hand on his shoulder.
"Relax, Son, I don't know everything, though I could very well find out if I so wished. I respect your privacy. All I know is that you're interested in that Prince of Lucis...and that the interest is mutual."
Percy mentally breathed a sigh of relief.
Thank the gods, he doesn't know everything.
"So I've been told," Percy replied. "Umm...what do you think about Sam, and...what do you think of me liking him?"
Poseidon chuckled.
"I have no issues with your feelings towards Prince Samuel, but I think that you're well past the liking stage, Son."
That's true.
At least he doesn't seem to mind.
Percy nodded.
"I am."
Poseidon removed his hand from Percy' shoulder.
"Anyways, I met Prince Samuel as Neptune, and he gave a most favorable impression. He would suit you quite well. Much better than that certain daughter of Athena."
Hey, Annabeth isn't that bad.
Percy frowned.
"Annabeth is still my friend, Dad. She's probably the best friend I could ask for."
Poseidon held up his hands.
"I didn't mean any offense, Percy. I didn't say that Annabeth was a bad person, I only said that she was a bad match."
Well...he's right.
Annabeth and I weren't a very good match.
Something then occurred to Percy.
Wait...Sam met Neptune?
Why?
When?
"You...You met Sam?" Percy asked.
His father nodded.
"Technically speaking, yes, I did."
Percy raised an eyebrow.
"Okay...Why? Is something wrong?"
Poseidon shook his head.
"No, nothing is wrong, Son. I simply had something that belonged to Prince Samuel."
Percy pondered what his father (or technically, Neptune) could possibly have had that belonged to Sam.
Something that belongs to Sam?
What could that be?
Suddenly, it came to Percy.
"You mean that trident?" he asked.
"Yes, Oraculum, or Oracle," his father answered. "Because of their tendency to be stolen, the gods have taken the remaining known Royal Arms into their possession for safekeeping, awaiting the time for them to be claimed. I don't know if there are any tombs left for Prince Samuel to find, but my brother, Hades, would know. Prince Samuel needn't worry, though. The Royal Arms are in good hands."
Percy mentally nodded.
That's right, Chiron mentioned that many of them have been stolen.
"Good to know," Percy commented. "Which gods have Royal Arms?"
"As far as I'm aware, Jupiter, Juno, Pluto, Minerva, Mars, Ceres, Diana, and Mercury each have a Royal Arm in their possession," Poseidon replied.
Percy was very much surprised by the number of Royal Arms.
That's quite a few.
From what I saw, Sam already has three Royal Arms, since Noctis and Aurora are twin blades and technically a single Royal Arm.
"What makes the Royal Arms so special?" Percy asked, hoping to gain answers for Sam. "What makes the Line of Lucis special?"
If I can learn something, I'm sure that he'd appreciate it.
"To answer the former, those of Linea Lucis, or the Line of Lucis wield Potestas Regum, or the Power of Kings. It's a power that allows those of the Line of Lucis to stand on equal ground with anyone, be they mortal or god," Poseidon explained. "In other words, no 'insta-wins' such as vaporizing them or turning them into something else."
Percy was quite surprised by his father's words.
No way...
Sam is awesome.
"A Regiis Armate, or a Royal Arm, is bonded with the soul of its owner. In fact, you could even go as far as to say that the glaive is them. Usually, the Royal Arm is named after the owners True Name," Poseidon continued.
Interesting.
"Sam said that his two swords are actually a single Royal Arm, Noctis and Aurora," Percy stated. "What would Sam's True Name be?"
His father stroked his beard.
"Curious. Dawn follows Night and is not necessarily Day yet. Dawn shares qualities with Night, as it is still cool, and the stars may even still be visible. If the blades were Noctis and Dies, it would be difficult to guess, but if it's Aurora, then his True Name is likely Noctis Lucis Caelum, or, in English, the Sky of the Night's Light," Poseidon answered.
Percy's heart fluttered upon hearing the translation.
Oh, gods...that's so beautiful.
Should I call him Noctis as a pet name?
Percy then mentally shook his head.
No, he probably wouldn't want me to call him after his sword.
What about a variation of it, like...Noct?
I can give it a shot.
The thing is...
Doubt started to claw its way into Percy, and he frowned.
"Is something wrong, Son?" Poseidon asked, looking and sounding concerned.
"It's just...Do you think that I'm good enough for Sam?" Percy replied. "He's a prince, Dad. A legitimate prince. He even lives by a code."
Poseidon shot Percy a curious expression.
"And what is this code that he lives by?" he asked.
Percy contemplated on what Sam had said.
How did it go again?
It then came to him.
Oh, that's right.
"Embrace your dreams. And, no matter what happens, protect your honor," Percy recited Sam's code. "He even said that a hero needs to have dreams and honor."
Poseidon nodded.
"It's a good code to live by, and he's not wrong. A hero certainly does need dreams and honors. I've seen too many demigods and legacies who had no aspirations other than being a hero, and it never ends well for them. They want fame and glory, and there's nothing wrong with wanting those things, but without dreams and honor, many heroes turn out worse than monsters."
Percy mentally nodded.
Yeah, some of the heroes of old could be downright cruel.
"As for whether or not you're good enough for Prince Samuel, is there any reason you feel inadequate?" his father asked.
"It's just..." Percy started, then hesitated.
How should I put it?
"Even after nearly everyone turned on him, he still protected them," Percy explained. "I'm not sure if I could have done the same thing in his position."
Poseidon gave Percy a reassuring smile.
"Well, I'm proud of you, Son, and I know for a fact that your mother is as well. You should never feel like you're not good enough."
Percy took a small amount of comfort in his father's words.
"Thanks, Dad."
"And when do you plan on confessing your feelings to him?" Poseidon asked.
I've already decided that.
"Tomorrow," Percy answered.
"I wish you the best, Percy," Poseidon said.
"Thanks, Dad," Percy replied. "Oh, and he prefers Sam."
Poseidon nodded.
"I'll keep it in mind."
Just one more night.
I can make it one more night.
But...
"Was that all you wanted me for?" Percy asked. "To talk about Sam?"
"Actually, there's something I wanted your help with," Poseidon replied, a scroll (not the same kind Sam has) appearing in his hand.
The sea god then unrolled it.
"What is it?" Percy asked.
"It's for a new game called Blitzball," Poseidon answered. "I think that it'd be right up your alley."
Blitzball?
Sounds interesting.
Will
Sam, Will, Kayla, and Austin were at the front of the amphitheater. Sam held an electric guitar, Kayla held a base guitar, and Austin was on the drums.
"Are you ready?" Will asked Sam.
Sam nodded.
"Yeah, I'm ready."
The young prince then turned around to face the campers.
"Hello, Camp Half-Blood!"
The campers cheered in reply.
They've definitely warmed up to Sam again.
"As you all know, we were attacked," Sam said. "But we were victorious! We showed them that when you mess with us, we will always come out on top!"
The campers cheered once more.
"You're damn right!" someone shouted.
"This is a song to commemorate our victory!" Sam yelled, and the crowd grew quiet.
He picked the perfect song.
Sam started to play. So did Austin and Kayla, and then Sam and Will began to sing.
"They see you as small and helpless
They see you as just a child
Surprised when find out that a warrior will soon run wild
Prepare for your greatest moments
Prepare for your finest hour
The dream that you've always dreamed is suddenly about to flower
We are lightning
Straying from the thunder!
Miracles of ancient wonder!
This will be the day we've waited for!
This will be the day we open up the door
I don't wanna hear your absolution
Hope you're ready for a revolution
Welcome to a world of new solutions!
Welcome to a world of bloody evolution
In time, your heart will open minds!
A story will be told!
And victory is in a simple soul!
Your world needs a great defender
Your world's in the way of harm
You want a romantic life
A fairytale that's full of charm
Beware that the light is fading
Beware as the dark returns
This world's unforgiving
Even brilliant lights will cease to burn
Legends scatter...
Day and night will sever!
Hope and peace are lost forever!"
Sam then went into a solo, playing with great skill.
I wonder who taught him.
"This will be the day we've waited for...
We are lightning...
Welcome to a world of new solutions...
This will be the day we've waited for!
This will be the day we open up the door
I don't wanna hear your absolution
Hope you're ready for a revolution
Welcome to a world of new solutions!
Welcome to a world of bloody evolution
In time, your heart will open minds!
A story will be told!
And victory is in a simple soul!"
The song came to an end, and the campers gave a standing ovation. Sam searched the crowd, and Will quickly realized that he was looking for Percy. Sam's expression faltered slightly.
Guess he isn't back yet.
Will placed a hand on Sam's shoulder.
"At least smile for the crowd."
Sam sighed.
"I was just hoping..."
"Way to go, Sam!" Percy shouted from the back of the crowd.
Ah, there he is.
Sam's demeanor immediately improved.
That's better.
Sam raised his fist triumphantly into the air.
"Thank you, Camp Half-Blood!"
The campers cheered in reply, Percy the loudest voice among them.
Will mentally shook his head.
What a dork.
A gorgeous one, but a dork all the same.
Sam
"And you're sure that you want to go back?" Jason asked Sam, sounding and looking unusually concerned for the young prince.
Sam mentally shook his head.
Seriously, why is he so concerned?
I'm not a child.
Sam nodded.
"I appreciate your concern and everything you've done for me, Jason, but I've been assigned to the Poseidon Cabin. I have to go back sooner or later. Besides, I think that I'm ready to at least be in the same room as Percy."
"But it's past curfew," Jason objected. "What about the cleaning harpies?"
Oh...them.
Sam simply shrugged.
"We've already met, and they hardly pose a threat to me."
He should know that.
Jason reached out but then seemed hesitant.
Oh, I see.
Sam gave him the son of Jupiter a reassuring smile.
"It's okay this time, Jason."
Instead of simply placing a hand on his shoulder, Jason pulled Sam into a hug, much to Sam's complete surprise.
Wait, what?
This is...unexpected.
Also to Sam's surprise, he found himself relaxing instead of tensing up.
Weird.
Maybe Jason's hugs just make people relax.
But...why I'm getting a strange sense of familiarity?
Jason finally pulled back, and Sam found himself missing the hug.
Definitely weird.
"Sorry," Jason apologized. "I figured that you needed one after everything you've been through."
He's not wrong.
Sam smiled.
"Thanks, Jason."
Sam turned around, opened one of the doors outside, and stepped out into the night.
Time to go back.
Sam then felt like he was being watched.
Oh...
They're back.
Sam sighed out loud.
Fan-fucking-tastic.
The three harpies landed before Sam.
"Hello, polite and scary not-demigod," Aello greeted him with a unexpectedly friendly smile. "Does he need an escort? Harpies will ensure that polite and scary not-demigod reaches his destination safely."
Sam was rather pleasantly surprised.
That's...unexpected.
Sam decided to return the smile.
"Appreciated, but unnecessary, ladies. And please, call me Sam."
Sam then tapped his temple with his right index finger.
"Got it memorized?"
The harpies nodded.
"Yes, Sam," Ocypete replied. "Let harpies know if Sam needs anything. Ocypete, Aello, Celaeno will serve Sam well."
Sam nodded.
"You have my thanks."
The harpies then took off, likely to attend to their duties.
They're not so bad.
Annoying as all hell, but not so bad.
Sam walked towards the Poseidon Cabin. Upon reaching the door, he pulled out his key, but he then hesitated.
Is Percy still awake?
Should I knock?
Sam shook his head.
No, this is my Cabin, too.
If Percy's still awake...I'll have to deal with that.
Hopefully, he's asleep.
Percy
The son of Poseidon struggled to breath, as the very air seared his skin and lungs. He was surrounded by a desolate landscape. Above him, blood-red hung in the hazy gray air. Dread and despair filled Percy.
No!
No, no, no, no, no!
This...this can't be real!
I escaped!
I escaped, I escaped, I escaped!
Percy's head darted around, looking to see if he was alone.
Annabeth!
Bob!
Someone, please!
Don't leave me here!
Suddenly, a wave of black water came rushing towards Percy, and he immediately recognized it.
No!
Not the River Cocytus!
Percy tried to move the water away from himself, but the shear volume overwhelmed him, and he found himself submerged in its icy embrace. As before, countless voices filled his very soul.
"Life is pointless," the voices said. "You live, you grow old, and then you die. And for what? What's the point of it all?"
Percy mentally shook his head.
Shut up!
You're wrong, life isn't pointless!
"Why struggle?" the voices asked. "Death comes sooner or later. Why not just accept it now?"
No!
I won't accept it!
"But aren't you tired?" the voices replied. "Aren't you weary of this endless pain? This endless suffering? Where are the ones you cherish most? They're not here. They've abandoned you. You're alone."
Percy found his resolve crumbling into dust.
I...I am alone...
I have no one...
I'm miserable...
I should just give up...
"Yes, just give up," the voices agreed.
Give up...
I should just give up...
Sam
The young prince quietly entered the Poseidon Cabin before closing the door behind him. He slipped off his shoes, then looked at Percy, who seemed fast asleep.
Looks like he's out cold.
I suppose that's a good thing.
"Miserable..." Percy mumbled, startling Sam.
He's awake?!
"I'm miserable..." Percy continued to mumble. "I should just give up..."
Sam's alarm bells went off.
Something's wrong.
Sam walked up to Percy's sleeping form.
"Percy?" he asked quietly.
"I'm alone," Percy replied, though seemingly not at Sam. "So much easier to give up."
Something is seriously wrong!
Sam placed a hand on Percy, about to tell him to wake up, but the son of Poseidon was ice cold to the touch.
He's freezing!
What the fuck is going on?!
Sam shook Percy gently.
"Percy. Percy, you're having a nightmare. Wake up."
"I'm all alone...No one is going to save me..." Percy said, sounding like he was indeed giving up on life.
No!
Sam quickly pulled Percy's blanket and sheets back before slipping into bed with him. He wrapped his arms around Percy, trying to warm him up.
Why is he so cold?!
"You're right..." Percy muttered. "Life is pointless..."
Who is he talking to?
"Yes, you're right..." Percy continued. "I don't have anything to live for..."
I won't accept this!
"Percy, you listen to me!" Sam ordered. "Don't you dare say that! You hear me?! I won't ever forgive you if you just give up on living! You can't just give up before I tell you how I feel!"
"You're right, it's so much easier to let it all go..." Percy replied to whoever he was dreaming about instead of to Sam.
Several emotions filled Sam: Fear, dread, but mostly anger.
Who the hell does this person or whatever think they are that they can talk over me?!
What the fuck gives them the right?!
"Pointless..." Percy mumbled.
That's it!
"SILENCE!" Sam ordered whoever Percy was talking to. "Who do you think you are to make Percy give up?! What gives you the right?! You don't get to decide that! Percy gets to decide that, and Percy isn't the type to give up! Whoever you are, get lost!"
Percy
Just give up...
It's all so pointless...
Life is just endless suffering...
"Yes," the voices agreed. "Just endless-..."
A faint voice called out to Percy in the distance.
Who is that?
"It doesn't matter," the voices answered.
Percy agreed.
Yes, it doesn't matter.
No one important.
"Percy, you listen to me!" the voice ordered. "Don't you dare say that! You hear me?! I won't ever forgive you if you just give up on living! You can't just give up before I tell you how I feel!"
'It's no one important' the voices replied. 'No one impor-...'
"SILENCE!" the other voice ordered.
This time, Percy recognized the voice.
...Sam?
"Who do you think you are to make Percy give up?!" Sam asked, sounding furious. "What gives you the right?! You don't get to decide that! Percy gets to decide that, and Percy isn't the type to give up! Whoever you are, get lost!"
As quickly as the River Cocytus had come, it fled at the command, leaving Percy on solid ground once more. He felt his desire to live returning.
That was Sam.
He saved me.
Percy quickly looked around, hoping to find his savior, but he didn't see any sign of Sam.
Where is he?
Sam...don't leave me here all alone.
"How disappointing," another voice commented. "It would have been so much simpler if you had just given up. Why do you have to struggle?"
Oh, no...
Percy started trembling as he turned towards the source of the voice. Before him towered the physical embodiment of Tartarus. To Percy's horror, the tortured faces of Bob and Damasen silently screamed within the Protogenos' armor.
No...not Bob...
"Percy, come back to me," Sam called out, sounding desperate.
Sam...
Where are you?
"No one escapes me," Tartarus stated. "I shall take what is rightfully mine, your life."
Percy's life essence began to be pulled into the Protogenos' face.
Sam, please, save me!
Sam
To Sam's horror, Percy's breathing began to grow shallow. He felt Percy's pulse, which steadily grew weaker.
What's going on?!
What should I do?!
What can I do?!
Percy, don't die on me!
Something then unlocked itself within Sam's mind.
That...That's it.
Sam placed his forehead against Percy's and began to glow a soft blue, focusing his Aura and channeling it into Percy. The son of Poseidon began to glow with a blue aura that matched Sam's own.
I remember.
"For it is in passing that we achieve immortality. Through this, we become a paragon of virtue and glory to rise above all. Infinite in distance and unbound by death, I release your soul, and by my shoulder, protect thee," Sam said softly, unlocking Percy's own Aura.
The act exhausted Sam greatly.
Please, let it be enough.
"Percy...come back to me."
Percy
As his life essence was drained, Percy suddenly felt invigorated.
What's going on?
"What's this?" Tartarus hissed.
"For it is passing that we achieve immortality. Through this, we become a paragon of virtue and glory to rise above all. Infinite in distance and unbound by death, I release your soul, and by my shoulder, protect thee," Sam said.
Sam...
What did you do?
"It seems that someone is assisting you," Tartarus commented. "But it's not enough to save you. Your soul is mine!"
Tartarus continued to draw Percy's life essence.
"Percy...come back to me."
Sam
Despite unlocking Percy's Aura, the son of Poseidon, to Sam's dismay, continued to grow weaker, his breathing barely noticeable.
No!
Sam felt his eyes tearing up.
No, I can't let him just die!
Once more, Sam felt a part of his memory unlocked
If...If my Aura can't save him...maybe my other source of power, the Power of Kings, can.
Sam drew on the power that gave him his other abilities, this time, glowing a soft white. Small luminescent crystals began to float around the two.
"Et participes cum te Illuminatio Mea (I share with thee my light)," Sam said softly. "Et participes sunt tibi fortitudinem meam (I share with thee my strength). Et participes cum tibi anima mea (I share with thee my soul). Et participes cum te mea vita (I share with thee my life). Ego te ad participes Potestate Regum sunt (I share with thee the Power of Kings). Per spatium infinitum atque solutum a morte, et copulationem nostris animabus, et in corde meo, custodiat te usque in sempiternum (Infinite in distance and unbound by death, I bond our souls, and by my heart, protect thee forevermore)."
Sam shared everything he had with Percy.
"Et participes Vitam meam tibi, Percy (I share my life with thee, Percy)," Sam said before exhaustion overcame him.
Percy
Percy suddenly found his life essence no longer being drained as small luminescent crystals floated around him.
"Et participes cum te Illuminatio Mea (I share with thee with my light)," Sam said.
'What now?!' Tartarus yelled.
"Et participes sunt tibi fortitudinem meam (I share with thee my strength)," Sam continued.
Percy found his strength returning. Tartarus reached for Percy, but a barrier of light repelled the Protogenos; he cried out in pain, recoiling, his hand steaming.
"Et participes cum tibi anima mea (I share with thee my soul)," Sam said. "Et participes cum te mea vita (I share with thee my life)."
The landscape and air around them shattered like glass, and Percy found himself infinite blue realm. It vast expanse had a sort of soft glow to it, and soft lights like stars shined. It also possessed streaks that reminded Percy of the Aurora Borealis.
"Ego te ad participes Potestate Regum sunt (I share with thee the Power of Kings)."
Where are we?
A pillar of golden light came down upon the Protogenos, slowly dissolving him.
"Per spatium infinitum atque solutum a morte, et copulationem nostris animabus, et in corde meo, custodiat te usque in sempiternum (Infinite in distance and unbound by death, I bond our souls, and by my heart, protect thee forevermore)."
"I will have what is mine!" Tartarus bellowed.
"You do not belong here, Tartarus," a collection of voices answered. "The son of Poseidon shares in a portion of our power through the Chosen. Return to the Pit."
"Et participes Vitam meam tibi, Percy (I share my life with thee, Percy)," Sam said.
"Who are you to give me orders?!" Tartarus questioned the voices. "I am a god! I am a Protogenos! What gives you the right?!"
"God or no, it makes no difference," the voices replied. "All is equal before us, the Lucii, and you are a trespasser in our realm. Begone!"
Tartarus completely faded away.
"We await the time for you to take your place...Hydrean," the voices said.
'Hydrean'?
Percy's eyes opened.
Wait...was that a dream?
Percy breathed a sigh of relief.
Thank the gods, it was just a dream.
Percy then noticed something — someone was holding him.
What the...?
Percy pulled back slightly to see Sam, eyes closed, and seemingly asleep.
I...I must still be dreaming.
A tear slipped down Sam's eye and into the pillow.
"Come back to me, Percy," he nearly whispered, sounding desperate and full of emotion.
Oh, Sam...
"I'm right here," Percy replied.
Sam's eyes fluttered open.
"Percy...You look like shit."
Gee, thanks, Sam.
Percy smiled anyways.
"Hey, that's-..." he started to say before Sam cut him off with a soft kiss.
This feels...real.
Sam pulled back and closed his eyes.
"Sweet dreams, Percy..."
Sam's breathing began to take a steady rhythm.
Yeah...this must be a dream.
Percy closed his own eyes.
"Sweet dreams, Sam."
Jason
A young son of Jupiter entered the abandoned church his new friend had shown him. He looked around, but couldn't find Noct.
Is he here?
"Noct?" Jason called. "Noct?"
"Hello," Noct said from behind Jason in a sing-song voice, but Jason still jumped nonetheless.
How did he get behind me?!
Jason spun around to find Noct smiling at him, though the upper half of his face was still hidden.
How does he do that?
Is it some sort of enchanted hoodie?
Noct reached out with his right index finger and touched Jason on his nose.
"Boop."
'Boop'?
Jason blinked.
Did he seriously just boop me?
Jason giggled.
"You're a weird guy, Noct."
Noct frowned slightly.
"Is...that bad?"
Jason shook his head.
"Of course not. We can be weird together."
Despite the fact that most of his face was hidden, Jason thought he detected a hint of a blush on Noct's cheeks.
Definitely a weird guy.
But like I said, nothing wrong with that.
"So, what do you wanna do?" Jason asked.
"What do you do for fun?" Noct asked back.
Jason snorted.
"Vincere aut mori. Conquer or die, Dude."
"Pfft, how boring," Noct retorted. "Carpe amet (Seize the fun), Cloud."
He's definitely a weird guy.
But in a good way.
"Well, what do you do for fun?" Jason asked.
Noct shrugged.
"I fight monsters or whatever else crosses my path."
Jason frowned.
Wait...what?
That's what he does for fun?
I thought that...
Does he mean that...
"What's going on in that head of yours, Cloud?" Noct asked.
"It's just...I thought that hunting monsters was part of your training, like mine," Jason replied.
Noct shook his head.
"Nah, killing monsters is child's play."
"We are children," Jason quipped.
Noct giggled.
"Fair point. But if it's training for you, I guess I shouldn't interfere."
Jason was slightly surprised by his new friend.
Wow...I wouldn't have expected that.
"Thanks, Noct," Jason said sincerely.
Noct simply shrugged.
"I want you to be able to make it to Camp Jupiter alive. I like you."
I think that I'm starting to like him, too.
"Well, what should we do then?" Jason asked.
Noct smiled.
"How about we work on your flying?"
Jason frowned slightly.
"My flying?"
Noct sniggered.
"Well, more like floating."
Jason huffed.
Mean.
Noct reached out and touched Jason on the nose again.
"Boop."
Jason couldn't help but giggle.
"Quit it, Noct. Anyways, how exactly are you going to help me? It's not like you can fly."
Noct jumped into the air, and soft white lines glowed along his clothing. He started to hover in the air, and Jason's jaw dropped.
What?!
How?!
How is he commanding the winds?!
Is it...coming from his clothes?!
"Maybe not, but I can glide quite well," Noct explained.
"What are you?" Jason asked.
"I'm an enigma," Noct replied. "Maybe if you make to Camp Jupiter alive, I'll reveal a bit more of myself. After all, what's the point in telling someone who might perish along the way?"
Is that it?
"How about you show me your face if I learn how to fly," Jason said. "If I make it to Camp Jupiter, you have to give me your name."
Noct smirked.
"Alright then. You have yourself a deal, Cloud."
Percy
Percy's eyes slowly fluttered opened, and he yawned. He felt extremely comfortable.
Mmh, this is nice.
Percy then noticed a weight on his chest.
Hmm?
He looked down to find Sam's head resting on his chest, his face turned towards Percy.
Wait...what?
Sam?
Percy blinked his eyes several times.
He's still here?
Why is Sam sleeping in my bed?
When did he come back?
Does that mean...that Sam actually saved me from my nightmare?
Percy smiled softly.
Of course he would.
He's a true hero.
I don't think that I deserve someone as great as Sam.
Something then occurred to the son of Poseidon, and he started to blush furiously.
Does...Does that mean that Sam...actually kissed me?
It felt so real...so very real.
Much more so than those dreams...
Oh, gods...
Percy felt his heartbeat starting to increase.
Oh, gods...
Oh gods, oh gods, oh gods.
I...I kissed Sam!
For real!
Sam sighed softly.
What should I do?
Should...Should I move him?
Should I move?
Am I supposed to do something?
"Mmh...Percy," Sam muttered softly.
Oh...gods.
I...I think I need to do something before my heart is explodes from excitement!
Percy carefully rolled onto his side, trying to get up, but as soon as he was on his side, one of Sam's arms wrapped around him and pulled him close.
Shit, is he awake?!
Percy froze, his heart pounding in his chest. He listened very carefully to Sam's breathing. After what felt like an eternity, Percy was certain that Sam was still asleep, and he breathed a sigh of relief.
Thank the gods, he's still asleep.
I just need to get up for a little bit.
Percy tried to pull away, but Sam's arm wouldn't budge.
Come on, Sam.
Just let me-...
Percy tried to pull away once again, but Sam pulled him closer and nuzzled his face into Percy's neck with a soft growl. Percy felt a rather pleasant shudder run through him.
Why is he so strong?!
Percy then smiled.
Well...I might as well enjoy it.
Percy closed his eyes, and Sam breathed a deep sigh.
I love this guy.
Sam
In Bunker Nine, Sam worked on crafting Fire Dust rounds for Isaac's new weapons. The gauntlets were yellow, as opposed to Sam's black ones. He was also studying the scrolls Percy had given him.
They turned out quite nicely, if I do say so myself (This game seems fascinating. I think that we could make it take place above water with the right equipment) (I should think about infusing Dust into my clothes).
(Sam is running simultaneous lines of thoughts through his head.)
The thing is that crafting rounds by hand is a pain (The thing is that I don't have enough Dust to construct something to contain water in a large enough volume to play above the sea) (It'd be a lot less draining on my Aura reserves).
Leo picked up a couple of open viles of Fire and Ice Dust.
What in the world does he think he's doing (Where in the world am I going to find the Dust required to make this game a reality) (But what should types should I use)?
"Careful with that," Sam said.
It's a good thing I only have one mouth (I wonder if I'd be able to play this game with Percy) (Well, I make frequent use of wind, fire, and water).
"Is this really energy?" Leo asked, frowning at the vials.
Sam mentally shook his head.
I thought that I already explained all of this (I'd have to be able to breathe underwater...right?) (Perhaps I should devote certain pieces of clothing to a specific type of Dust, but I'll run out sooner if I use combinations).
"Yes, it is," Sam answered, turning his head to catch the son of Hephaestus sniffing at the Dust. "Dude, don't sniff it!"
Leo started taking in short inhales, and Sam shook his head.
Great...
(He's not doing multiple thoughts anymore.)
Leo sneezed and was consumed in a small explosion.
Huh...this is just like with the Colossus.
Hopefully, his head is still attached to his body.
When the smoke cleared, Leo's face was black with soot while his hair was frozen solid.
"Whoa, did I just explode?"
He's lucky that didn't hurt us.
Looking at the son of Hephaestus, Sam tried to contain his laughter. He completely and utterly failed.
I am never letting him live this down.
A idea came to Sam.
In fact, speaking of never letting him live this down...
Sam grabbed his Scroll from the air and opened it before snapping a picture of Leo.
"Dude, did you just take a picture of me?" Leo asked.
Sam grinned wickedly.
"Sure did."
"Get rid of it!" Leo demanded.
Sam shook his head.
"No way! Go work on that piece of junk dragon of yours, and stop touching my stuff."
Leo grumbled as he walked away.
I can't wait to show everyone.
Sam
Inside the sword fighting area, Sam presented Isaac with a pair of yellow bracelets that were triangular in shape. The young son of Ares eyes sparkled with excitement.
"So, they're ready?" he asked.
Sam smiled and nodded.
"They're ready."
"Awesome!" Isaac exclaimed before taking the bracelets and slipping them over his hands.
Such an endearing kid.
"How do I change them?" Isaac asked.
That's something I had to consider.
Usually, I trigger their transformation using my Aura, though there is a mechanism to change it without using Aura.
I also use my Aura to trigger shots.
Isaac's are automatic, meaning that each punch will trigger a shot.
As much as I'd like to, I can't simply go around unlocking everyone's Aura because...well, for one, it's draining and there's over a hundred kids here.
Furthermore, I still don't remember how I'd go about teaching them.
Maybe I should ask Percy if he feels any different, then I'll consider unlocking Isaac's Aura.
Anyways...
"Tap them together three times," Sam answered, demonstrating the motion to Isaac.
Isaac repeated the motion, and his yellow bracelets changed into gauntlets. He looked at them in wonder.
"Whoa...Awesome..."
Sam then grabbed a couple of small belts of rounds from the air. One set was red, and the other was orange.
"The red are short range, and the orange are long range," Sam explained. "I've already loaded them with some long range rounds. I've also adjusted the amount of recoil for someone of your size. Until you're used to it, don't fire them-..."
Isaac punched both his arms in the direction of a training dummy, firing two red glowing orbs at it; the recoil knocked the young son of Ares several feet backwards and onto his back, but he did manage to hit his target, consuming the training dummy in a small blast. When it cleared, the training dummy was in tatters and burning.
"...at the same time," Sam finished.
Isaac giggled.
"That was fun."
Sam walked over to Isaac and offered him his hand. Isaac took it, and Sam pulled him to his feet.
"Like I said, don't fire them at the same time until you're used to it. These things can also be used to increase your mobility, but it's gonna take a lot of practice," Sam explained.
"You'll help me, won't you?" Isaac asked, sounding hopeful.
Sam smiled and ruffled Isaac's hair.
"Of course. I'm in charge of hand-to-hand training. Have you thought of a name for them? Every good weapon needs a name."
"How about Ember?" Isaac suggested.
"It's a good name," Sam replied as he pulled back the sleeves of his hoodie.
He then changed his own bracelets, Coelica, into gauntlets.
"Let's begin."
Sam
Sitting with Percy, Apollo, and Rachel by the Athena Parthenos, the young prince sighed.
"Remind me what we're doing here again," Sam said.
Seriously, why are we here?
"Trying to figure out Apollo's next move," Percy replied.
Rachel looked at Apollo.
"I know what you're thinking. Don't do it."
"Can you read my mind, Miss Dare?" Apollo asked in a voice that Sam could tell was feigning surprise.
"Don't need to," Rachel replied. "I know you, Lord Apollo."
"Plus, you have 'stupid idea' written all over your face," Sam quipped.
Anyone would be able to tell.
Apollo sighed.
"Do not call me Lord. I am just a mortal teen. I do not belong at this camp."
Sam mentally rolled his eyes.
Look who's talking.
"Yeah, I used to think I didn't belong here either," Percy commented.
"Same here," Sam added, a small smile playing on his lips.
"It's not the same," Apollo argued. "You humans grow and change and mature. Gods do not."
Sam mentally shook his head.
Geez, what a whiner.
Percy looked at Apollo.
"You sure about that? You seem pretty different."
I can't imagine how.
"The other Oracles must be found and secured," Apollo stated. "I cannot do that unless I leave Camp Half-Blood. And I cannot risk anyone else's life."
Good, because I have no intention on helping you.
I have my own shit to deal with.
I don't give a fuck about petty prophecies.
Something nagged at Sam's mind,
'Regis dormit (The King sleeps)'.
Where did that come from?
"You sound certain," Rachel noted. "Did you get a prophecy from the grove?"
Apollo shuddered visibly.
"I fear so."
Rachel nodded and cupped her hands on her knees.
"Kayla said you were talking to an arrow yesterday. I'm guessing it's wood from Dodona?"
Percy frowned.
"Wait...You found a talking arrow that gave you a prophecy?"
"Don't be silly," Apollo replied. "The arrow talks, but I got the prophecy from the grove itself. The Arrow of Dodona just gives random advice. He's quite annoying."
Sam rolled his eyes.
Again, look who's talking.
"At any rate," Apollo continued, "I must leave the camp. The Triumvirate means to possess all the ancient Oracles. I have to stop them. Once I have defeated the former emperors…only then will I be able to face my old enemy Python and free the Oracle of Delphi. After that...if I survive...perhaps Zeus will restore me to Olympus."
Rachel tugged at a strand of her hair.
"You know it's too dangerous to do all that alone, right?"
"Listen to her," Percy urged. "Chiron told me about Nero and this weird holding company of his."
"I appreciate the offer of assistance, but-..." Apollo started.
Oh, hell no.
I am NOT letting Percy leave.
"Whoa," Percy said, holding up his hands. "Just to be clear, I'm not offering to go with you. I still have to finish my senior year, pass my DSTOMP and my SAT; otherwise, my mom and ex-girlfriend will kill me. But I'm sure that we can get you some other helpers."
Sam breathed a mental sigh of relief.
Good.
I don't want Percy to leave.
"I'll go," Rachel offered.
Apollo shook his head.
"My enemies would love to capture someone as dear to me as the priestess of Delphi. Besides, I need you and Miranda Gardiner to stay here and study the Grove of Dodona. For now, it is our only source of prophecy. And since our communication problems have not gone away, learning to use the grove's power is all the more critical."
Sam could detect Rachel's disappointment.
Still, communication problems?
That should be an easy problem to remedy.
"What about Meg?" Rachel asked. "You'll try to find her, won't you?"
Apollo sighed.
"I will try, but Meg doesn't want to be found. She's under the influence of her stepfather."
Percy traced his finger across the Athena Parthenos's big toe.
"I've lost too many people to bad influence: Ethan Nakamura, Luke Castellan...We almost lost Nico, too..."
I'm glad that Nico is okay...
I happen to like my bro.
Percy then shook his head.
"No. No more. You can't give up on Meg. You guys are bound together. Besides, she's one of the good guys."
"I've known many of the good guys," Apollo said, sounding crestfallen. "Most of them got turned into beasts, or statues, or...or trees..."
Rachel put her hand over Apollo's.
"Things can turn out differently, Apollo. That's the nice thing about being human. We only have one life, but we can choose what kind of story it's going to be."
"I...I hope you're right," Apollo replied.
Rachel patted Apollo's hand.
"Tell me the prophecy you heard in the grove."
The former god took in a shaky breath.
"There once was a god named Apollo
Who plunged in a cave blue and hollow
Upon a three-seater
The bronze fire-eater
Was forced death and madness to swallow"
Sam was completely unimpressed.
...
That's it?
If it wasn't Apollo who was specified, I'd think it'd be referring to me.
After all, drinking anguish is something I can do.
(No, not literally.)
Rachel, for some reason, covered her mouth.
"A limerick?"
"I know!" Apollo wailed. "I'm doomed!"
Geez, again, what a whiner.
"Wait..." Percy said, his eyes glittering, and Sam found himself captivated by Percy.
So pretty.
"Those lines...Do they mean what I think?" Percy asked.
"Well," Apollo said, "I believe the blue cave refers to the Oracle of Trophonius. It was a...a very dangerous ancient Oracle."
"No," Percy said. "The other lines. Three-seater, bronze fire-eater, yadda yadda."
Sam sniggered.
Oh, Percy.
"Oh. I have no clue about those," Apollo replied.
Rachel squinted at Percy.
"Percy, what are you..."
Her expression went slack.
"Oh. Oh."
Sam raised an eyebrow.
What?
"Were there any other lines?" Percy urged. "Like, except for the limerick?"
"Several," Apollo answered. "Just bits and pieces I didn't understand. The fall of the sun; the final verse. Um, Indiana, banana. Happiness approaches. Something about pages burning."
Percy slapped his knee.
"There you go. Happiness approaches. Happy is a name — well, the English version, anyway."
He stood and scanned the horizon. His eyes fixed on something, and a grin spread across his face.
"Yep. Apollo, your escort is on the way."
Sam followed his gaze. Spiraling down from the clouds was a large winged dragon that glinted of Celestial bronze. On its back were Leo and Calypso.
Sam stood and sighed.
Oh, great...
He managed to fix it.
More sentient garbage.
The bronze dragon landed, letting out a triumphant machine roar.
"SILENCE!" Sam ordered, already thinking of slicing the dragon into confetti.
Percy placed a hand on Sam's shoulder.
"Festus is friendly. Please, don't destroy him."
Sam looked at the son of Poseidon and smirked.
"I wasn't thinking that."
Percy rolled his eyes.
"You totally were."
Busted.
Sam pouted.
"Just a wing."
Percy chuckled.
"What is it with you and automatons?"
I don't remember.
Sam shrugged.
"I can't say."
Percy grabbed Sam's hand and started to pull him away.
"Can't have that. Let's go."
Sam blushed, but a small smile played on his lips.
Tonight.
I'll tell him tonight.
Nico
"Seriously?" the son of Hades asked his bro, the Prince of Lucis, sitting with Percy, Will, and Jason at the bonfire in the amphitheater.
Sam started cackling.
"Seriously."
"You're telling us that Leo exploded?" Jason asked. "How is that any different than usual?"
"Because he didn't just burst into flames, he literally exploded," Sam explained.
"Hey, it wasn't my fault!" Leo complained. "...But I literally exploded a hole in Bunker Nine, and there was some fire...and I-I think some ice?"
Percy raised an eyebrow.
"Ice?"
I had the same thought.
"Are you being sarcastic?" Will asked with a playful smirk.
Leo huffed.
"I wish. I was helping out Sam and repairing Festus, and then I sniffed some Dust, and then I sneezed, and then I exploded, and then Sam started laughing, and I felt really, really embarrassed, and I just wanted him to stop laughing at me, and then he took a freakin' picture!"
No way...
I have to see that!
"Bro, show me!" Nico exclaimed.
Sam grabbed his Scroll from the air and opened it. On the screen appeared a picture of Leo with soot on his face and his hair frozen. Percy, Jason, and Will crowded around Sam to look at the picture.
Jason looked at Leo.
"Oh my gods, you really exploded..."
Percy, Sam, and Will started cracking up. Jason and Nico found themselves joining in the laughter.
"It was an accident. It was an accident!" Leo wailed, making the five laugh harder.
Sam's awesome!
I love this guy!
"You seem to be in a much better mood," Kayla commented as she walked up to Sam, guitar in hand.
I know where this is going.
"Would you be willing to sing something?" Kayla asked. "Preferably something happy."
Sam smiled brightly.
"Sure thing, though I wanna go solo for this."
Kayla handed her guitar to Sam, and Nico found himself curious.
I wonder what he'll sing this time.
He said something happy.
Sam began to play a rather pleasant tune.
"When the night has come, and the land is dark
And the moon is the only we'll see"
I know this song.
It's different from the original.
I think I prefer this one more.
"No, I won't be afraid, oh, I won't be afraid
Just as long as you stand...stand by me
So, darlin', darlin', stand by me
Oh, stand by me, oh, stand now...
Stand by me...Stand by me"
Sam began to play a bit more to the original.
"If the sky we look upon...should tumble and fall
Or the mountain should crumble to the sea...
I won't cry, I won't cry, no, I won't...shed a tear
Just as long as you stand...stand by me
And darlin', darlin' stand by me
Oh, stand by my me, oh, stand now...
Stand by me...Stand by me"
So beautiful.
I definitely like this more than the original.
Sam began to hum as he played.
Much more.
"And darlin', darlin' stand by me!
Oh, stand by me! Oh, stand...stand by me! Stand by me!
Whenever you're in trouble, won't you stand by me?!
Oh, stand by me! Oh, stand now! Stand by me!
And darlin', darlin' stand by me!
Oh, stand by me! Oh, stand now...Stand by me!
Whenever you're in trouble, won't you stand by me?!
Oh, stand by me! Oh, stand now...Stand by me! Stand by me!"
The song came to an end, and campers started cheering.
That was amazing!
Will leaned closer to Nico.
"That's about as direct as you can get without actually saying it."
Sam stood to take a bow, and Percy stood next to him.
Nico giggled.
"That's also about as close as you can get without actually saying anything."
Jason stood, too.
Umm...what?
Will and Nico shared a confused look with each other.
"That's...weird, right?" Will asked.
Oh, good, I'm not alone.
"Perhaps he's just caught up in the mood?" Nico suggested.
He then noticed something odd in Jason's expression.
Is that...desire?
"That doesn't look like simply being caught in the mood," Will noted.
"Jason's straight, isn't he?" Nico asked.
Will snorted a laugh.
"I don't know what he is, but the huge crush he has on you speaks otherwise."
Wait...crush?
Since when did Jason have a crush on me?
"Jason doesn't have a crush on me," Nico said. "He's just been a really good friend."
"I'm sure that it seems that way to you, Neeks, and you're probably right to an extent, but I've felt Jason's values on multiple occasions when he's around you, and his feelings for you are more than platonic," Will explained.
Jason...has feelings for me?
Nico blinked at the son of Jupiter.
Guess I can't blame Sam and Percy for being oblivious to each other...
Well...hopefully, this game of Truth or Dare won't be too awkward.
Sam
The five teens sat on pillows by the fireplace, arranged as before. Sam took in a deep but quiet breath.
It'll be okay.
It'll be fine.
Percy hasn't kicked me out or anything, so...he'll be fine with my feelings for him.
And he didn't freak out about me sleeping in the same bed.
Sure, I didn't wake up with him, but...he didn't freak out.
He's been rather busy today, but so have I.
"I think that we should establish some ground rules before we start," Will said.
Sam raised an eyebrow.
"Ground rules?"
Will nodded.
"Yes, some ground rules."
"I'm listening," Sam replied.
"All answers need to be in English," Will stated. "Is that okay with you?"
Well, I already planned on telling Percy.
I just needed the courage to do so, and this helps.
Sam nodded.
"I'm fine with that. Am I going first again?"
Everyone shrugged.
"Sure."
"Why not?"
"I don't have a problem with that."
"Go for it."
These were the respective replies of Percy, Jason, Nico, and Will.
Great...
Who should I ask first?
Sam looked at Nico.
Should I start with Nico again?
Sam mentally shrugged.
Why not?
It's probably the easiest way to start.
"Nico, Truth or Dare?" Sam asked.
"Truth," Nico answered.
Okay, what should I ask?
An idea then came to the young prince.
Oh, I know.
"I'm curious...who was your first kiss?" Sam questioned the Ghost King.
Nico blushed, and shifted nervously.
"That's...erm...would someone remind me, what exactly is the punishment for not answering?"
How bad can it be?
Will gave his boyfriend a reassuring smile.
"Hey, it's okay, Neeks. It's not like you're going to hurt my feelings if it's not me."
Nico took in a deep breath.
"Well...I suppose I had to admit it someday. I just didn't think it'd be today. Percy, I'm really, really sorry."
Sam blinked.
Wait...what?
Percy just smiled.
"What's there to be sorry for? Just tell us, Neeks."
I think he just did, Percy.
Nico sighed.
"No, Percy, I meant that it's you. You were my first kiss."
So...I was right.
Sam couldn't help but feel a bit jealous that Nico was the first guy Percy had kissed.
But...how come Percy doesn't remember?
Percy's smile changes to a look of befuddlement; he blinked several times.
"That's...erm...but...what?" he stammered, looking lost and somewhat flustered.
"I'm really sorry," Nico apologized. "You see, it actually happened quite some time ago. You were asleep, and I kissed you. It was when I had finally come to terms with my...my feelings, and it just sort of...happened, y'know?"
That explains it.
"Oh...erm...I suppose that's fine," Percy replied. "But does that...really count? With me being asleep and all?"
Nico scratched his head.
"Well...thing is...you kinda kissed back."
Wait, what?!
"I...I did?" Percy asked.
"Yeah, you did..." Nico answered.
As an awkward silence came over them, Sam's jealousy increased.
That...That's not fair!
I wanted to be Percy's first!
"Um...Was I any good?" Percy asked rather innocently. "I've never kissed someone while I was asleep. Then again, I wouldn't exactly remember, now, would I?"
Sam suppressed the urge to growl.
Will rolled his eyes.
"Dude, you can't just ask when it's not your turn," he chided before looking at Sam. "You okay, man?"
Sam blinked.
"Huh?"
"You're eyes are kinda glowing red," Will explained. "Is that normal?"
Oh, shit!
Get ahold of yourself, Sam!
Sam took in a deep breath, and his eyes returned to normal.
"Better?"
It's not like I have any right to be jealous.
One, Percy isn't my boyfriend, and two, I've probably already kissed someone.
Will nodded.
"Better. You're up, Neeks."
"Truth or Dare, Will?" Nico asked.
Will smiled.
"Truth."
"Are you upset?"
Figures.
"Honestly, I'm a little jealous that Percy got to kiss you first, but I'm not angry," Will answered.
Very mature.
Will always seems to impress me.
Will then looked at Sam. He smiled, and Sam gulped.
"So, Sam, Truth or Dare?" Will asked.
Sam's mind raced, running several lines of thought simultaneously.
What should I pick (What if I pick Truth) (What if I pick Dare)?
If I pick Truth, will he ask me to name the person (If I pick Dare, will I have to kiss Percy or something) (What if he asks me to do something completely innocent)?
I'm so nervous (What if Percy rejects my feelings?) (What am I supposed to do?).
Sam mentally slapped himself.
Get ahold of yourself, Sam.
It's going to be okay.
"...Truth," Sam finally replied.
"Is the person you like in this room?" Will asked.
That's...a nice step.
Sam took in a deep breath and nodded.
"Yes, he is."
"You don't say," Nico deadpanned.
"Oh, shush," Sam replied.
Who should I ask next?
Sam looked at Jason, who was staring very intently at his hands for some reason.
Odd.
"Truth or Dare, Jason?" Sam asked.
Jason seemed to be snapped out of a daze.
"Erm...what?"
What's up with him?
"Get your head out of the clouds," Sam said. "Truth or Dare?"
"Uh...Truth," Jason replied.
Now, what should I ask?
Perhaps...I should ask about the Cloudy Wolf.
"Have you still been having dreams about the Cloudy Wolf?" Sam asked.
Jason nodded.
"I have, but I really haven't learned anything particularly useful about the guy."
Sam couldn't help but feel disappointed.
That's a let down.
Sam nodded.
"Fair enough."
Jason then looked at Percy.
"So, bro, Truth or Dare?"
"Truth."
"I'm curious, what's your sexuality?"
Sam mentally frowned.
Why would he want to know?
Percy's had a girlfriend, so he's obviously straight.
"I'm bisexual, though I lean more towards guys," Percy answered.
The answer completely shocked Sam. He blinked.
Wait...what?
Percy...likes guys?
(Facepalms.)
"Same here," Will chirped.
"Truth or Dare, Nico?" Percy asked.
"Um...Truth," Nico replied.
He's going to ask about the kiss, isn't he?
"Was my kiss any good?"
Called it...
Sam suppressed another growl.
Stay calm.
Don't let your eyes start glowing red again.
It's not like I can tell, though.
It's completely separate from my Semblance.
Nico shifted nervously.
"It...It was pretty good."
Okay, I'm dying to know just how good it is in real life.
Percy smirked, as if satisfied by the reply.
I want to put a bigger smile on his face.
Nico then looked at Jason.
"Truth or Dare?"
"Truth."
"Are you interested in having kids someday?"
Jason seemed surprised by the question. He then put on a thoughtful expression.
"Well, I suppose that I might want one one, though it would depend on the partner, the time, and whether or not we were capable of raising a child."
Wow, what a mature guy.
Nico put on a friendly smile.
"Well, I think you'd make a pretty cool dad."
"I agree with Nico," Percy added, eyeing Jason up and down.
"Ditto," Will chimed in.
Jason scratched the side of his face.
"Erm...Thanks, I guess. So, Will, Truth or Dare?"
"Dare," Will answered.
"Put more wood on the fire."
That's it?
Will looked completely unimpressed. He huffed and got up before grabbing a log and and placing another log on the fire. He then sat down with another huff.
"Happy?"
Jason smiled and nodded.
"Quite. Thanks, Will."
Will shrugged, then turned towards Sam.
Here we go again...
"So, Sam, Truth or Dare?"
Perhaps I should go with Dare.
"Dare," Sam replied.
"Take off your shirt, and no covering up."
Clever...
Sam slipped his shirt over his head before tossing it over to his bed.
"Comfy?" Will asked with a smirk.
"Not really, but I'll deal with it," Sam answered truthfully, already missing his shirt.
It's my favorite shirt, too.
(The steel-gray one with the skull prints.)
"Sam doesn't like being caught off guard," Percy explained. "He likes to be ready to go at a moments notice."
Sam mentally nodded.
Exactly.
Will nodded.
"Makes sense."
Who should I ask next?
Sam then focused on Percy.
I'm curious...
"Percy, Truth or Dare?" Sam asked.
"Dare."
He didn't have a choice.
"I want to hear you sing," Sam said.
"Erm...what?" Percy replied.
"You've heard me sing," Sam stated. "Sing for me, Percy."
Percy scratched the back of his head, looking extremely flustered.
Aww, how cute.
"If...If you say so..." Percy mumbled, before taking a deep breath.
What will he sing?
"When the night has come, and the land is dark
And the moon is the only we'll see," Percy sang quietly.
So, he chose the song I sang.
He's got a nice voice.
"No, I won't be afraid, oh, I won't be afraid
Just as long as you stand...stand by me
So, darlin', darlin', stand by me
Oh, stand by me, oh, stand now...
Stand by me...Stand by me"
Sam's heart fluttered.
Why is he embarrassed about singing?
His voice is beautiful.
"How was it?" Percy asked sheepishly.
Sam smiled.
"Are you asking as a Truth?"
Percy nodded, blushing slightly.
So cute.
"You have a beautiful singing voice," Sam answered. "Right, guys?"
They didn't reply.
Come on, guys, Percy needs this.
"Guy?" Sam asked, looking around the others, only to find them staring at Percy with heart eyes.
...What?
What's with them?
They look like they're hypnotized.
Percy looked at Jason.
"Bro, are you okay? Was it that bad?"
I thought it was fine...
Jason faced Percy...and started leaning closer.
What?!
Oh, hell no!
"Guys, snap out of it!" Sam ordered, pulling the three demigods from their daze.
"Huh?" Jason said, pulling away from Percy. "What just happened?"
"You tell me," Sam replied. "What was wrong with you?"
"I...I don't know," Jason answered. "I just...Percy started singing, and everything became fuzzy."
Weird.
"Does anyone know what might have happened?" Jason asked.
"I think I might," Nico replied. "Perhaps Percy has a siren's voice."
The answer surprised Sam.
Wait, what?
Seriously?
Percy?
"That...actually makes sense, but who knew?" Will said. "I guess that means that no one can enjoy Percy's singing until he learns how to control it."
Sam smirked, feeling rather smug.
"Speak for yourself. I dare you. I wasn't hypnotized."
Will returned the smirk.
"Oh? So, you're immune to Percy's charms?"
Not really, but in the literal sense...
"Well...I suppose," Sam answered, then realized he had wasted a turn. "Damn it, Will!"
Will cackled in reply.
I wasted a Dare on Will and a Truth!
"Nico, Truth or Dare?" Sam grumbled.
"Dare."
What should I ask him to do?
Revenge?
Sam mentally shook his head.
No, that's stupid.
...But it might make me feel better.
"Kiss Jason."
"What?!" Nico shouted, and Jason blushed furiously.
Oh?
Looks like someone has a crush on Nico.
Nico looked at his boyfriend, and Will smiled.
"Go ahead, Neeks. Remember, it's just a game."
Nico nodded.
"Right..."
He then looked at Jason.
"Are...Are you okay with this, Jason?"
"Erm...Yeah, it's okay, Nico," Jason answered.
Nico looked at Sam.
"A...An actual kiss?"
Sam nodded.
"Right..." Nico said as he turned to face the son of Jupiter. Slowly, the two started to lean in closer.
They're actually going to do it...
The two demigods' lips connected in a hesistant kiss...and Sam felt his heart ache at the sight.
...What?
Jason placed his hands gently on either side of Nico's face, and Nico placed his on Jason's shoulders. They both huffed, and Sam felt worse.
What's wrong with me?
Sam heard Nico gasp slightly, and he watched as the two deepened the kiss slightly.
He's using tongue, isn't he?
Jason then ended the kiss, both he and Nico huffing softly and looking dazed, and Sam wanted to breathe a sigh of relief.
Seriously, what's wrong with me?
I thought that it might make me feel better...but it just made me feel worse.
"Well...I'll tell you, that was one hell of a kiss," Jason said, looking and sounding rather pleased as he and Nico returned to their spots, and Sam felt his heart clench in his chest.
Why am I feeling this way?
I...I don't get it.
Stay calm, Sam.
Don't lose control.
"I'll say," Will added.
"So, Percy, Truth or Dare?" Nico asked, still blushing somewhat.
"Hmm..." Percy seemed to ponder his options. "Dare."
"Take your shirt off."
That grabbed Sam's attention.
Huh?
Percy grinned at took off his shirt in a rather seductive manner before tossing it on his bed.
Don't start drooling, Sam.
"Happy?" Percy asked, and Sam wanted to nod.
I am feeling somewhat better.
Nico gave Sam a wink.
Thanks, bro.
Percy then looked at Sam.
"So, Sam, Truth or Dare?"
What should I pick?
If I pick Truth, Percy might ask me who I like.
If I pick Dare...I don't know what he'll do.
Am I ready to say it?
Sam mentally shook his head.
Not yet.
"Dare," Sam answered.
"Sit in my lap."
...
...
What?
Sam blushed slightly, and he started missing his hoodie.
Damn you, Will...
Percy smiled and patted his lap, and Sam stood and walked over to the son of Poseidon. He turned around and felt Percy grab his hand, pulling him down. Sam complied and settled into Percy's lap, and his body tensed. His heart beat rapidly in his chest.
Oh, shit.
Stay calm.
"Relax," Percy quietly urged, wrapping his arms loosely around Sam.
Sam felt the tension leaving his body, and he relaxed, feeling Percy's skin against his own.
This is...nice.
Sam sighed softly.
Much nicer than even the dreams.
"Someone's enjoying himself," Will teased, causing Sam to flip him off. "Wow, rude."
Sam just shrugged.
I don't really care.
"It's your turn," Percy reminded Sam after several moments had passed.
Oh, that's right.
Who should I ask?
Sam looked at Jason.
"Truth or Dare, Jason?"
"Truth," Jason answered with a shrug.
"What's your sexuality?" Sam asked, feeling curious.
"I'm demi," Jason replied, surprising Sam slightly, though for different reasons.
Huh...
Why doesn't that surprise me?
"Meaning you're..." Nico started, then trailed off, seemingly unable to match a definition to the word.
"What it means is that I can only feel sexually attracted — or, for that matter, romantically — to people I know, with whom I feel close to, and have a kind of emotional bond with," Jason explained for Nico.
Meaning that he feels close to Nico, but what about Percy?
Is Jason even aware of his feelings for Percy?
Sam mentally shook his head.
Based on what I saw, probably not.
Well...he can sort that out for himself.
I know that I'm sorting out something when it comes to Jason.
"Will, Truth or Dare?" Jason asked.
"Truth."
"Erm...Were you bothered by the kiss between me and Nico?" Jason asked rather hesitantly.
Will shook his head.
"Don't worry that handsome head of yours, Jason. It's a game."
Jason nodded.
"Right..."
Will then looked past Sam, at Percy.
"Truth or Dare, Percy?"
"Dare," Percy replied, right by Sam's ear.
"Kiss the guy you like."
Wait...Percy likes someone here?
(Facepalms...again.)
Is it Nico?
Jason?
Well, I should get off his lap so he can kiss whoever it is.
As Sam made to get up, Percy grabbed his wrist, pulling him back down into his lap, only this time, he was facing the son of Poseidon.
Wait...what?
"...Percy?" Sam asked, his voice barely above a whisper. "What are you-..."
Percy cut Sam off with a kiss, and Sam's eyes widened in surprise.
Wait, wait, wait...
What?
Percy pulled back slightly.
"It's you, Sam. You're the guy I like."
...
What?!
"You...You do?" Sam asked, not quite believing it.
He's joking right?
This isn't a dream, is it?
I'm not going to suddenly wake up, am I?
Percy smirked.
"Well, as I told my dad, I'm well past the liking stage."
He's joking.
He has to be joking.
"So, Truth or Dare, Sam?" Percy purred.
What should I pick?
Sam then found his resolve.
I...I think I'm ready.
"Truth."
"Tell me, do you like me, too?"
Sam took in a deep breath...and shook his head, making Percy frown.
"But-..." he started before Sam shushed him with a finger.
"I'm well past the liking stage, Percy," Sam answered, removing his finger. "Truth or Dare, Percy?"
Pick Dare.
A smile crept onto Percy's face.
"Dare."
Yes!
"Kiss me again."
Percy
"Tell me, do you like me, too?" Percy asked.
Though he was smiling, Percy's heart was pounding in his chest.
Please, say yes.
Gods, please, say yes.
Sam took a deep breath and shook his head, and Percy's heart sank.
...What?
But...But Nico told me that he did!
He even swore on the River Styx!
I don't get it!
"But-..." Percy started to say, but Sam silenced him with a finger.
Huh?
"I'm well past the liking stage, Percy," Sam answered, removing his finger, and Percy's heart lept with joy.
Yes!
Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes!
"Truth or Dare, Percy?" Sam asked, sounding hopeful.
Oh?
I can tell that he definitely wants me to pick Dare.
A smile crept onto Percy's face.
"Dare."
"Kiss me again."
"With pleasure," Percy purred before capturing the young prince's lips once again.
Yes, so much better than a dream.
Percy prodded gently on Sam's lips with his tongue, asking for entrance. Sam huffed and parted his lips, and Percy slipped his tongue inside. He moaned softly when Sam's tongue met his own.
Gods, this feels so good.
Sam practically melted against the son of Poseidon, wrapping his arms around Percy's neck, while Percy's wrapped his around Sam's back. Though their tongues danced, it was a somewhat cautious and sensual dance.
Gods, I've been wanting this since...well, a really long time.
He feels so good.
Sam moaned slightly.
I have to know if this is what I think it is.
Percy pulled back slightly, ending the kiss.
"Truth or Dare?"
"Truth," Sam answered.
"Do you want to be my boyfriend?" Percy asked.
Sam nodded.
"I do. Do you want to be mine?"
Percy looked into Sam's eyes.
"I do. Gods, yes, I do."
Sam's eyes started tearing up.
Uh-oh.
A tear slipped down Sam's cheek.
"Sam, what's wrong?" Percy asked, feeling concerned as Sam started sobbing quietly into Percy's neck.
"N-Nothing' w-w-wrong," Sam answered, stuttering. "I-I'm h-happy, you d-d-dork."
Aww.
"Me, too, Sam," Percy said, stroking Sam's back. "Me, too."
I really don't have the words to describe how happy I am.
'Happy' doesn't really do it justice.
Sam continued to cry quietly into Percy's neck.
I know that he feels the same way.
"Ew, look at those two, Nico, all in love," Will teased, causing Sam to flip him off whilst still crying.
Hehe.
So cute.
After about a minute, Sam finally calmed down and pulled back to look into Percy's eyes.
"Feeling okay?" Percy asked.
Sam smiled and nodded.
"Better than okay. Okay, I need to expand my vocabulary, gods, you have no idea how happy I am, Percy."
Percy chuckled.
That's a first.
Hopefully, the first of many things.
"I'm guessing that we're not playing anymore?" Will asked, more statement than question.
Sam turned his head to look at the son of Apollo.
"No...I think we're done. Thanks, Will."
Percy raised an eyebrow.
"What are you thanking Will for?"
Sam faced Percy once more.
"Will arranged this so I could come forward with my feelings."
Percy was actually quite surprised.
Oh...
That's...actually really nice of him.
"Thanks, Sun-bug," Percy said sincerely.
"No problem, Gorgeous," Will replied.
"'Sun-bug'?" "'Gorgeous'?" Sam and Nico asked respectively.
Oops.
"Just some harmless pet names, love," Will explained.
"Why does Will have a pet name, and I don't?" Sam lamented, and Percy looked to see Sam pouting ever so adorably. "I thought I was your boyfriend."
Percy's heart fluttered at the word 'boyfriend'.
Gods, I can't believe this is real!
This better not be a dream!
"Of course you can have a pet name, Your Highness," Percy replied.
Sam huffed.
"'Your Highness' doesn't count. That's a title, not a pet name."
Well, I already had one in mind.
"How about Sammy?" Will suggested, causing Sam's eyes to shift to red before he glared at Will.
"Absolutely not!" the young prince shouted, making Will let out an 'Eep'.
"Whoa, looks like you pressed a button there, Will," Jason noted.
Yeah, I probably should explain.
"Sam doesn't like it when people call him Sammy," Percy explained.
"That's putting it mildly," Nico commented.
"Well, how about Noct?" Percy suggested, regaining Sam's attention.
Upon Percy's suggestion, Sam's eyes returned to their natural (if nearly glowing blue eyes could be considered natural) color, and he smiled.
"I like it," Sam said, making Percy smile, too.
"I'm glad," he replied.
"Did you say 'Noct'?" Jason asked, gaining Percy's attention.
He noted that the son of Jupiter looked confused.
"I did," Percy answered. "Why? Is something wrong with it?"
Jason shook his head.
"Oh, no, nothing's wrong with it...It fits, I suppose."
Weird.
Percy mentally shrugged.
Oh, well.
I've got a boyfriend, I'm way too happy to give anything else too much attention.
"Hey, Percy?" Sam asked, regaining Percy's attention.
Percy smiled.
"Yes, Noct?"
Sam blushed softly.
"Can...Can I put my shirt back on?"
I don't want him to be uncomfortable.
Percy gave Sam an Eskimo kiss.
"Of course. Whatever you want."
"Here," Jason said, having gotten up to retrieve Sam's shirt.
Sam took the shirt and slipped it over his head.
"Thanks, Jason."
Percy pouted, going into baby seal mode.
Aw, he's hid his body.
"Percy, quit it~," Sam whined.
"What?" Percy replied, acting innocent. "I want to see my beautiful boyfriend. Is that so wrong?"
"You're not playing fair," Sam complained.
That's the point.
"You're much different in my dreams," Percy noted.
Sam raised an eyebrow.
"And how am I different?"
In so many ways.
"Well, for one, you tore my shirt off, saying that orange was an awful color and that I should wear darker colors to make my eyes stand out more," Percy answered.
Sam blinked, looking surprised.
"Wait...what?"
Will whistled.
"Damn. That's pretty aggressive of you, Sam."
"Shush," Sam replied, eyes still focused on Percy. "What else have I said or done?"
He's unusually curious.
"Well, after our first game of Truth or Dare, you were pretty distant in my dreams, saying that there was no point in talking since it wasn't real," Percy explained.
Sam looked shocked.
"That's...I..."
"Something wrong?" Percy asked.
"Percy...those were my dreams, too," Sam replied, his voice very soft.
Now, Percy was the one who was shocked.
Wait...what?
"Sounds like you two have been sharing dreams," Nico commented.
"For how long?" Will asked.
"Since after Gaea," Percy answered.
"Geez, it's no wonder you two fell for each other so quickly if you've been sharing dreams for that long," Will said.
So, if Sam and I have been sharing dreams, that means...
Sam started blushing furiously, and Percy knew why.
"Sam, that morning, did you have a-..." Percy started to say.
"Don't say it!" Sam interrupted.
Yeah, I thought so.
Will started cracking up.
Bet he's figured it out.
"What's so funny?" Nico asked, not understanding.
"Don't you dare, Will!" Sam exclaimed.
"Oh, are we still playing?" Will teased. "Dare accepted."
"No!"
"Someone had a wet dream," Will answered Nico.
Sam buried his face into Percy's neck and groaned.
"Will, I hate you!"
"Have you seen Sam in all his glory?" Will asked.
"Will!" Sam shouted.
Oh, how I wish.
Since we were sharing dreams, it probably would have been exactly like the real thing.
"Unfortunately, no," Percy answered Will.
"Percy!" Sam yelled.
"Guys, you're making him uncomfortable," Nico chided. "Frankly, I'm kinda uncomfortable myself."
Sam pulled back to look at Nico.
"Thank you!"
"So, what do you guys wanna do now?" Jason asked.
I wanna make out with my boyfriend.
"How a movie?" Nico suggested.
"That's a great suggestion, Nico," Percy replied. "Oh, let's watch Up!"
"I still can't believe that's your favorite Pixar movie," Jason mumbled.
Percy looked at his bro.
"Well, what's your favorite Pixar movie?" he asked.
Jason blushed slightly, as if embarrassed.
Oh?
What's this?
Why would he be embarrassed?
Unless...
"Is it Finding Nemo?" Percy questioned.
When Jason's blush deepened, Percy knew that he was right.
Oh, what dramatic irony...
"Whoa, this has to be the most ironic thing ever," Will commented. "Seriously, you two have the perfect bromance."
"Don't I know it," Percy replied.
Sam then started to get up, and Percy immediately pulled him back into his lap.
"Where do you think you're going?" Percy asked with a smirk.
Sam kissed Percy softly on the lips, rendering Percy speechless by the suddenness. Sam then pulled back.
"We can't watch a movie from here."
...
"Percy?" Sam asked, but Percy was still somewhat dazed.
"Damn, based on Percy's expression, you just blew his mind," Will stated.
...
Whoa...
"He did," Percy said.
I'm so in love with this guy.
"Aw, look at Percy making heart eyes at his boyfriend," Will said. "Seriously, congratulations, you two. You guys were driving all of us nuts because it was so blatantly obvious that you two had feelings for each other. It was painfully adorable."
Sam and Percy frowned and looked at Will.
"Really?" they asked.
"Yes!" Nico, Jason, and Will answered.
Damn.
I just thought that Sam was shy.
Percy then pondered everything.
Though looking back on it...I guess that I should have realized it without Nico telling me.
Anyways...
"Well, let's watch that movie," Percy said.
Sam
Sam stepped out of the bathroom, having finished brushing his teeth after watching the movie. He was the last one to finish getting ready for bed.
"I can't believe you cried in the beginning," Nico said, referring to the movie.
He's not going to let me live that down, but...
Sam scoffed.
"You're one to talk. You cried, too."
"No, I didn't," Nico objected.
"Um...Yeah, you did," Will said.
"I did no such thing. I'm the Ghost King. Fear me," Nico grumbled, pouting slightly.
He's way too cute to fear at the moment.
"Yeah, real fearsome, bro," Sam said with a smirk.
"Hey, you're just a prince. I'm a king," Nico retorted.
Sam rolled his eyes.
"So? I'm physically the strongest person here. You yourself admitted that you'd lose in an all out fight between us."
"I'd win if I was at one hundred percent," Nico argued.
"Well then, get to one hundred percent and try and back that up," Sam replied.
Nico sighed.
"I'm trying. It's just...difficult. I feel like the darkness will consume me if I'm not careful."
Sam nodded.
"I can relate, though my problem isn't being consumed, it's control."
"Perhaps the two of you can help each other out," Jason suggested. "Nico needs someone to train with."
"Great idea, bro," Percy chimed in. "By the way, Sam?"
Sam turned his attention to his boyfriend, an idea he was still adjusting to (though he was happy beyond words).
"Yes, Percy?"
"You unlocked my Aura, didn't you?" Percy asked.
Oh?
He can tell?
Sam nodded.
"I did, but I don't know how I'd go about teaching something that's second nature to me. I guess it'll be a learning experience."
"Dude, you unlocked Percy's Aura?" Will asked.
"That's right," Sam answered.
"Well, why don't you do that for everyone?" Jason questioned.
Sam shook his head.
"Because it's not so simple. It's exhausting to do, so I'm not going to do it for everyone. Besides, I still have to learn how to I'm gonna teach Aura Manipulation first."
"That's a fair point, but we can think about it later," Percy said before grabbing Sam's hand. "Are you ready for bed?"
Oh, gods...
Hey, I like it.
"Yeah...I'm ready," Sam answered.
Percy smiled before pulling Sam with him towards his bed. Sam's heart pounded in his chest.
I can't believe it.
I have a boyfriend!
And I'm going to cuddle with him!
Percy pulled back the blanket and sheets before climbing into the bed, pulling Sam with him. He then pulled the covers over them before wrapping his arms around Sam.
"Comfy?" Percy asked with a smile that held such affection, Sam's heart melted.
"Very," Sam replied, giving Percy a smile of his own.
"Hey," Percy said.
"Yes, Percy?"
"I love you."
Those three simple words made Sam happier than words could describe.
"I love you, too," Sam answered, meaning it. "Good night, Percy."
"Good night, my prince."
Sam closed his eyes and let out a content sigh.
For once, a good night.
A great night.
Notes: No, Sam's True Name actually isn't Noctis Lucis Caelum, but it's close. I'll reveal it in the future.
As for what power Percy gained, it's not everything Sam can do.