Big thanks to Klaine-4ever-99 for being my beta
FABERRY-FABERRY-((4))-FABERRY-FABERRY
-4-
Greek Mythology…
Greek Mythology was a nightmare for Rachel; she could feel Quinn and Santana stare for what she did to Noah. The worst part was that the little brunette regretted it, but she also believed the boy deserved the beating. Rachel could hear her friends' words in her head…
"...Made an effort to not kill Puck...", "The dude is a prick, but you need two to make the nasty thing...", "He didn't rape her...", "He exploited her insecurities and used them to his advantage, we have done the same with friends and foes...", "Hermes's children are full of trickery...", "Violence is not the answer...", "You should apologize...", "There are other ways to teach him a lesson", "Do it for her, prove to her you're a better person..."
The class ended and Rachel was going to escape when Santana spoke to her.
"Berry."
"Not now, Santana." Rachel passed straight by her, trying to catch up with the Jew boy. "Noah, wait."
He looked at her with hate, respect, and fear. "What do you want?" His arms crossed over his chest.
"Noah, I want to apologize. I shouldn't have punched you. The endeavors between two people shouldn't remain like that. Quinn is perfectly capable to defend herself; my actions were the result of my own inability to help her and my own frustration with your conduct. I expect that our fellowship would not be impacted in a negative form. I also expect that you understand. I clearly believe you deserve a sanction of some kind, even if that retribution was over-reacting."
"I forgive you if you speak with Lauren. I don't want to watch those videos again, she has ruined me for unprotected sex." Puckerman turned away and stared to walk.
"It could be worse," Sam grunted.
"She was pretty eloquent and decent," Blaine said.
"Boys, don't encourage her," Atala protested, appearing out of nowhere between Rachel and the boys. "Sometimes I think you ramble on purpose to confuse your listeners and get away with anything you want," the girl told Rachel.
"Sadly, most of the time, it doesn't work," Rachel said. "I didn't understand the part concerning Lauren."
"Lauren followed him. I thought she wanted to make an alliance with him but she made him watch birth videos of Satyrs, Centaurs, and other entities." Atalanta's scorned look made her friends laugh. "It wasn't funny. The poor guy was in a catatonic state when I found him."
"He deserved it for what he did to Quinn." Rachel jumped and blinked twice. Quinn was in front of her. Was she listening? What should I do? What should I say?
"Cat got your tongue, Berry?" Santana smirked. Great! The Unholy Trinity heard the whole exchange. Wait! Why am I intimidated? My friends are at my side and Brittany is too. Do something, you idiot!
Rachel leaned in close to Santana. Their eyes locked and she said, "No, Santana, ninguna gatita se ha comido mi lengua, aún." (No, Santana, any little pussy hasn't eaten my tongue, yet.) Rachel took a step back and winked at Quinn. Take that, Lopez! I am no longer at your mercy.
The Latina couldn't believe what had happened. And to be completely honest, why didn't I become so bold?
"Since when do you speak-?"
"Spanish?" Rachel completed the question. "Atalanta has been teaching me for years. I have a terrible accent, but I am not that bad, am I?" Rachel asked as Blaine gasped, and my own Latin bestie was biting her hand in an attempt to control her laughter. "Santana, Britt, Quinn, how can I help you?" the little diva asked them with complete confidence.
Santana was still trying to recover when Quinn broke the silence. "I want to ask you about Puck, but you already answered my question." Here it comes, the complaint. "Thank you. I never thought someone would do that for me." What? "I also liked what you said to Puck. Thank you, Rachel." Quinn hugged Rachel, making the latter flush.
"You're welcome, I mean it." Rachel's voice was so soft and caring that it made Quinn blush. Control yourself, Berry.
"Girls, we'd better get going. We have forty minutes left to grab a snack and stretch for Tracking Skills," Blaine announced, saving her friend for further embarrassment.
"And I thought that Cheerleader Camp with Coach Sylvester was tough," Santana growled.
Dinner Time…
The rest of the activities went well. Rachel and her friends, with the help of Brittany, made a whole plan to woo Quinn, and the goddess Iris claimed Kurt.
Hummel had a panic attack, which Rachel founded ironic. Rainbows, pegasuses, messages, and that crazy ability to make the most estrange garments and colors combine. I have known his mother in person and he is lucky. The goddess is eccentric, but in a very good way.
After Rachel's reassurance about how amazing his mother was, the boy's panic diminished. I love her products. Lady Iris has a chain store called Rainbow Organic Foods & Lifestyles, the best vegan yodels I have ever eaten. The little diva made a sign at Blaine.
Blaine caught the message and escorted Kurt to Iris's cabin. "Kurt, let me help you move your things from Hermes's to your mom's cabin. You are going to love its colors."
FABERRY-FABERRY- FABERRY-FABERRY- FABERRY-FABERRY
"Rach, he is so cute and so self-confident. He told me about the bullies in the school and how after he found a safe haven in Dalton, he decided to return to McKinley and confront his tormentors…." Blaine was telling Rachel. "He is planning on dumping his boyfriend."
"I'm not surprised; Sebastian didn't defend him from the manticore or whatever thing he was seeing. Besides, Smythe isn't exactly the nicest guy you'll meet; he's crass, unbelievably selfish, and promiscuous," Rachel whispered. "I think that Kurt found out about his indiscretions." Rachel caught a spark of hope in Blaine's eyes. The diva felt contempt for Sam and Blaine; the two boys had golden opportunities to win Mercedes's and Kurt's hearts.
The horn blew and Rachel and Blaine marched to the pavilion.
At the pavilion, torches blazed around the marble columns, and a central fire burned. Each cabin had their own table and only on weekends could the demigods sit wherever they wanted.
A recently privileged Sam's earned this for us. Thank the gods Sam thought about that because Atala, Mike, Blaine, and I were too occupied thinking in other regards, like being acknowledged from our fathers; our polis; the cabins for the minor gods; a place for Hades in Olympus Council, etc. As the only daughter of Zeus in Camp Half-Blood, I have to sit alone in a big table five days a week, which is gloomy and boring.
Mr. D, the god Dionysus, was sitting with Chiron, his son, Blaine, and some satyrs in the twelfth table. The god used to be chivalrous and handsome - really, really handsome. Nymphs and mortals used to look at him praying he'd look back, but through the years, he became chubby and grumpy.
Rachel and the other demigods, with the exceptions of Blaine and Atalanta, regarded him with disfavor. Blaine doesn't have an option - the god is his father. However, I can't understand why Atalanta admires him…. She says that nobody gets him, and ever since she was a child, her favorite hero and god has always been Mr. D…. Crazy, right?
Dionysus spoke when he stood up, "I suppose I better said hello to all you brats…. Well, hello." He sipped his Diet Coke then continued, "Our Activities Director, Chiron, has announced that the next Catch the Flag will be on Friday, and the Chariot Race will take place on Saturday morning. Try not to die, but if you do…well…less work for all of us. Personally, I could care less! Also, I should tell you that we have some new campers."
Mr. D looked at Rachel. "I expected better for one of my legacies Raquel Cherry, bringing more spoiled children..." Then he looked at Atalanta. "And you… Why am I not surprised of your behavior, Amaranta Baileys? You have always been a trouble-maker, bringing in demigods, and you know I dislike demigods on general principle."
I am furious! Nine years and he still can't say my name, and what about Atalanta? She has been a hero longer; but Zeus forgives. Someone calls him 'The Wine Dude', because he wants to blast everyone around.
"Oh! I almost forgot. Mercedes Jones." All eyes were on her. "Come here." Mercedes stood up and got closer to him. "You belong to this table. Say hi to your brother, Blaine."
Rachel spat out her beverage.
"Do you have a problem, Ranielle Pumpking?" Mr. D. asked.
"No, sir," Rachel said.
"Where I was - Oh dear! I remember. Mercedes, I'm your mother."
Lauren coughed and Dionysus's eyes started to glow.
"Pardon me, Lord Dionysus. Wrong pipe," Lauren panicked.
The god composed himself. "Like I was saying. Your father was a fine young man, and I was in this experimental phrase...again…. Like the one I had with Ampelos." Mr. D. had dreamy eyes. "Anyway, to avoid confusions, you can call me Father."
Rachel's eyes widened. I didn't see that coming.
Mercedes was horrified. Her legs were shaking, and all the color from her face was gone. Blaine stood up and helped her sit down next to him.
"I relied upon your maturity." Mr. D. looked fixedly at all the campers, pausing longer at Atalanta and Rachel.
Atala gave Rachel a quick look and rose from her seat. "Greetings, Mercedes Jones, daughter of Dionysus."
Rachel copied her friend and soon all the tables were following their lead. Two daughters of the Power Three have made a statement: "Mess with Jones and her particular conception and we will kick your asses". We couldn't have given her better back-up.
Friday…
Four days have passed since the members arrived, and one since Hephaestus and Hecate recognized Artie and Tina. Everyone was happy for Artie when they found out that with the help from his siblings, he will have durable robotic legs. All of them were dealing with the changes pretty well.
"Rachel, can I come in?" Quinn was standing in the door of Rachel's cabin.
"Please, Quinn, come in. You are always welcome." Rachel was doing the final touches for the Cabin Inspection.
"I didn't imagine it looking like this," the blonde scrutinized the cabin.
Rachel's cabin was a giant marble white box with columns, polished bronze doors that shimmered like a hologram, and had lightning bolts streaking down them. Inside, the walls were decorated with moving mosaics of a cloudy sky and thunder bolts; the dome-shaped ceiling was the most amazing starry sky you could dream of. With every night, different constellations gleamed with a particularly strong light. There was no furniture, except for five golden eagle's alcoves with multiple magical drawers. If you have watched Mary Poppins, you have a good idea of what I'm talking about. The back wall had an artistic relief, representing Zeus defending Mount Olympus and vanquishing Thypoon. In the middle of the cabin, a kind of lightning rod with the form of Zeus's master lightning bolt was attracting electrical discharges.
"It's pretty impressive, even without the colossal statue of Zeus in the middle. It's a shame that an 'accident' damaged it." What? Don't judge me! Try to sleep with the giant figure of your father menacing with his bolt giving messages to everyone that gets inside! 1)'Kid, do something wrong and I blast you,' 2)'Don't forget, I am the boss,' 3)'Demigods: be aware of me, respect my rule and my children, or be reduced to crispy food.' "Sometimes I love Dionysus's cabin - no father statue anywhere," Quinn murmured.
"What was that?"
"I was just saying that the ceiling is dazzling."
"Yes, it is beautiful, so full of stars. Now, I comprehend your obsession with stars-"
Quinn was admiring the constellations. "Is that the Kneeling Man?"
"Yep. And that's my half-brother, Heracles, and those over there are the Perseids or Perseus. The one behind them is Sagittarius, named after the centaur hero, Crotus. Becoming a constellation is a great honor. My father reminds me of that every day."
"Sounds like a lot of pressure."
"Yeah. If I can't belong to the sky, at least I will be admired in another way. Like you said, 'no pressure'," Rachel laughed nervously. "The Fabrays aren't the only ones with child expectations."
Quinn made an effort to grin, but instead started to sob.
"Hey…" Rachel got close to the blonde and placed her hand on top of Quinn's. "Come here." Rachel led her to her alcove. Reminding her of her stupid father - well done, Berrybondhead. "Please, Quinn, stop crying. I promise, I will never make you cry again." Rachel touched the blonde's cheeks with her fingertips, wiping her tears.
"You have never caused me pain, Rachel, I was the one who bullied you for years."
"Nonsense. I instigated your afflictions when I told Finn the truth, when I took him away from you, but most importantly, when I failed to be at your side when you needed someone." Rachel squeezed the blonde's hand. "Tell me, Quinn, how that could be less important than harsh words and slushies."
"I pushed you away." Quinn frowned.
"I should've tried harder." Rachel reached in the back pocket of her jeans and offered Quinn a tissue. "Quinn, don't frown, because you never know who's falling in love with your smile." The brunette's words and her boldness did the trick and Quinn gave her a smile.
"Rachel Berry, a charmer. Who knew?" Quinn teased.
"Atalanta, but probably because she taught me how." Rachel was oblivious of her distasteful face. "Quinn, why did you cry?"
"My parents have not claimed me. Am I not worthy?" Her words were full of pain. "Maybe Russell was right..." Quinn started to weep.
"Quinn, listen to me. Until recently, many demigods weren't claimed at all. My friends and I changed that. Give the gods some time - they work around the clock. I'm not going to lie to you, they also break their promises and rules, but it has been a while since that happened, so they will be claiming the rest of you soon. Trust me."
"You promise?"
"Are you kidding me? You are very special, Quinn. Your mom or dad is going to be happy to claim you. In fact, I think that you are going to end up being the daughter of an important deity. After all, you are." Rachel squeezed her hand again. "If you are patient, I will show you something marvelous that will erase your doubts."
Sam and Blaine entered the cabin to start the weekly Cabin Inspection. "Hello, gorgeous," Blaine said, and started to check the cabin.
Capture the Flag…
Red Team: Hades, Aphrodite, Demeter, Hephaestus, Nemesis, and Dionysus
Blue Team: Zeus, Hermes, Athena, Ares, Nike, and Apollo
"So, Rae," Atala said. "What's up? Are you excited for Capture the Flag?"
"Of course I am. I can't wait for the Blue Team to claim victory." Rachel smirked.
"Your overconfidence is hilarious."
"Don't you ever get tired of your sarcasm? Besides, strategy conquers all, and we have Athena's children."
"Hey, sarcasm is more than a word, it's a life style. A life style that needs to be practiced to accomplice perfection," Atalanta remarked. Rachel rolled her eyes. "And your assumption about the children of Athena is incorrect. Athena's campers are not the only ones who put importance into strategizing." Atalanta smirked. "Talking about strategies, congratulations with the blonde. It's good to know our contributions have been helpful."
"I'm not confident about my boldness..."
"Are you kidding me? It has been perfect, believe me. When I was your age, my shyness didn't get me anywhere. If I had been more gallant, maybe I would still have my arm, my dignity, and the curse wouldn't have come into being," Atalanta said. "Sorry..."
"Do you want to-?"
"Talk about it? Who's being sarcastic now?" Atala smiled at her friend. "Focus on winning your girl, and this game," she said.
Rachel could see her friend wasn't telling her something important, but the diva knew better, so she let it go. "Okay, good luck." Rachel grinned and approached her team.
"Berry, problems in paradise?" Santana smirked. "I never pictured you for a player."
"Santana, shut up! She is my best friend!" the diva remarked
"Good, because Quinn deserves better than a cheater dwarf. Damn it! She deserves better than a dwarf."
"Santana." Rachel got close to the fierce Latina. "I will let your insults pass, because I know you are concerned for Quinn, but the next time you call me an inveigler, you will be in the infirmary for months." Rachel – accidentally – sort of electrocuted her.
"I just hope my parent is Ares," Santana said as she walked to join the team.
Rachel's team was winning. The Nike kids trapped Demeter campers in the middle of the river; Ares, Hermes and two Apollo sons had Atala surrounded in a place. I hate that she doesn't shadow-travel when we are playing, ergo she would not sneak past our guards and take the flag…. She's probably going easy on them with her swords.
The Aphrodite campers where charm-speaking the Apollo's, but the last were wearing earplugs, a clever suggestion of Athena's children; the others were fighting around, and I was inches from the flag when-
"Beautiful."
"Stunning."
"You look like a supermodel."
"Sanny, you are breathtaking."
Santana had been claimed for Aphrodite. Almost everyone was drooling over Lopez. Including me...
Blaine took the opportunity, ran through two campers and…
"Red team wins!" Chiron announced. Not that many of us were listening.
Friday Fireworks…
Atala, Britt, and Quinn were sitting in a remote spot of the beach, waiting for the victory fireworks. The diva was trying her best to be a gentleman - or gentlewoman - so she made a stop in the kitchens, and was carrying hot cocoa and a couple of blankets for Quinn.
"What the hell are you gaping at, Man Hands?" Santana snapped while huffing and puffing like a super model in a middle of a violent outburst.
Currently, the embellished Santana Lopez was cursing in Spanish.
"Y yo pensaba que tenia un problema por maldecir. ¿Dime, besas a tu madre con esa boca?" But Atlala wasn't scared of Santana. ("And here I was thinking I have a cursing problem. Tell me, do you kiss your mother with that mouth?")
"¡Jódete!" ("Fuck you!")
"You would love that, wouldn't you?" Atala asked, smirking. "If I were you, I would try to be more polite. Now you belong to the Barbie House, and pink dolls don't use bad words." Atalanta started to hum Barbie Girl by Aqua.
Rachel begged, "Atalanta, be nice." Then she turned towards Santana. "Don't despair, Lopez, the fashion automatons need someone like you with more fire inside. Besides, it's not like you have to stop being a bitch."
Quinn gave the most beautiful belly laugh I've ever heard.
"What I don't get is that if you are a daughter of Love, why are you waiting so long to be with Britt?" Atalanta remarked.
The couple started to discuss, and Rachel could see her friend grin when Santana ran to catch Britt. She got rid of her on purpose. I love her.
She said only to Rachel, "Well, my deed is done." Atala stood up. "Chiron wants me to travel to Camp Jupiter tomorrow. Rachel, you will need a new partner, and don't worry, I will see if Finn has arrived safely." The daughter of Hades scratched her head. "But before that, I need to undo my mischief." The girl walked away with the mission of finding the fighting couple.
"Shit, I can't count on her now," the diva whined.
"I can be your partner. We're already are a team and I'm a good rider." Quinn sipped her hot chocolate.
"Quinn, it's too dangerous. I don't doubt your physical capabilities, but the races have left four deaths and twenty six mutilations in the last couple of years."
"You don't trust me." Her voice sounded broken.
For Poseidon's Horses! Why does everything have to be so complicated? "Of course I do." Rachel touched Quinn's face and met her eyes. "Tomorrow, we are going to beat the others." Please, Father, for the few times I have asked you something: take care of Quinn.
The blonde leaned in towards Rachel. "Are we going to use the blankets?" The taller girl was cold.
Rachel put the blankets around them. Quinn smiled and tossed her head; Rachel smiled back and they instantly drew closer.
"Rachel, are you interested in me?"
What the Hades! I shouldn't have been so obvious. Don't panic! Say something! "Yes, I'm always concerned for my fellow campers' well-being..." Rachel said, and Quinn moved away almost immediately. Don't be a coward. Remember Atala's advice. Rachel took the blonde's hand and pressed a soft kiss to her palm. "I misspoke. I really like you, Quinn."
"Rachel, I-"
"Before you speak, please listen." Rachel put a finger to Quinn's mouth "The curse misguides me, but not entirely. I have always been drawn to you, Quinn. I don't want to unsettle you or make you feel uncomfortable. If you don't wish for my courtship, I will follow your request and back off, but if you give me a chance, I promise you, Quinn, that I will show you that love is more than four letters mumbled at convenience. I will give you what both of us have been craving...
Rachel knelt in front of Quinn and continued, "…I will be the person who calls you beautiful instead of hot, who calls you back when you hang up, who will lie under the stars and listen to your heartbeat, or will stay awake just to watch you sleep; who wants to show you off to the world when you are in sweats, who thinks you're just as pretty without makeup on... The one who will show you the real meanings of love, passion, adoration, and devotion."
When Rachel stood up, she saw Santana and Britt walking hand-in-hand towards them, while Quinn was avoiding her eyes. Rachel didn't want them to see her teary eyes, so she forced herself to smile. "Goodnight, Quinn." Rachel chose the path contrary to the one taken by the cheerleaders and ran towards the cabins without paying attention.
CRASH!
Rachel bumped into something; scrolls, a body, and a black toga were on the floor.
"What the Hades, Rae!? Maldición, look at the toga..." The piece of garment was covered in dirt. "Well, in any case, the scrolls are fine." Atalanta was kneeling on the floor, picking up the scrolls. She hadn't seen her friend's despair. "So, Rae, why are you here instead of with the pretty blonde? Didn't my scheme buy you some time alone?" When Atala turned her head toward Rachel, her smile disappeared.
Atalanta threw her belongings and engulfed her friend. "Pequeña, no llores." ("Little One, don't cry.")
Rachel sniffed and pointed at her friend's possessions. "Your things."
"They are not more important than you."
FABERRY-FABERRY- FABERRY-FABERRY- FABERRY-FABERRY
"She said what!?" Santana couldn't believe it. "I thought she had something with la chica muerte." ("...the dead girl.")
Brittany elbowed her. "San!" the taller blonde scolded her girlfriend. "I don't see the problem in dating Rachel." The two other girls looked at her in disbelief. "Let's see…" Britt put her hand across her chin and tapped her forefinger against her lips as if in deep thought. "She isn't ugly, she is popular, which is important to you. She isn't stupid; she isn't scary tall, so that gives you the prefect angle to kiss - bye-bye to neck pain. She can't leave you pregnant…" Britt kept tapping her chin. "She has improved her taste of clothes; she is sincere; she loves you; she will become someone important, famous, and rich in the future-"
"She's a girl."
"So?" Britt frowned. "Live a little."
"What about my parents?"
"What about them? One of them slept with a god or goddess when they were married, they don't have the moral high ground. One of both of your parents are hypocrites," Brittany stated. "Plus, you're a demigod, and demigods are not limited to mortal rules…. Also, Greeks were famous for their homosexuality; Rachel's father Zeus has had many lovers, which included women and men, and he is the King of Olympus and the other gods…that gives you a free pass."
FABERRY-FABERRY- FABERRY-FABERRY- FABERRY-FABERRY
Rachel had wept until she fell asleep in Atala's arms, but she couldn't rest in Morpheus's dreamland; her dreams were haunted by Quinn, and one of them made her wake up in a scream.
Quinn was surrounded by fire. The blaze was too strong for me to get close. Her clothes caught a spark and she started to burn. I was galloping to her; I was no longer human. I jumped the fence of flames and knocked her over.
Chariot Race…
The Hermes counselor wasn't happy with Atala's absence; the three cabins had made an alliance and he didn't want to lose. He decided that Chris was the most suitable person to take her place.
I have been avoiding Quinn all morning. After yesterday, I'm terrified of what she has to say about my feelings for her. Thanks the gods Camp is free of slushie machines.
Rachel was readying her chariot with Chris when she spotted Quinn with Santana and Britt. The smaller blonde looked horrible, black shadows were under her green eyes.
Britt came close to Rachel and put a hand on the diva's shoulder. "Go to her, we spoke all night."
Rachel walked toward Quinn and Britt dragged Santana away, giving them space.
Quinn was the first to break the uncomfortable silence. "You shouldn't love me, not after everything I've done to you. I'm not a good person, Rachel. We are not good to each other."
"Can I ask why?"
"I can give you a million of reasons..."
Rachel could barely work air in and out of her lungs. Fuck! I want to vomit…. Wait, if I'm going to vomit, I want to do it over Aphrodite.
"…But what you said yesterday made me doubt them," Quinn said.
Rachel felt her heart flip in her chest. She wanted to say something back, but Chiron blew the racing horn and she had to get going.
Quinn grabbed the diva's wrist. "Be careful." She kissed Rachel on the check.
Rachel walked to the starting line. After her encounter with Quinn, Rachel had her doubts about controlling the chariot, and her doubts increased when she noticed the horses. "Chris, what's going on with the horses? They look agitated."
"...The horses…? Nothing…you are imagining things. They're alright." The boy was too occupied checking the weapons to take notice.
Rachel was going to protest when the horn announced that the race was beginning, and all the chariots sprinted forward.
The Hephaestus-Hecate-Apollo cabin pulled ahead, as did Rachel's team; the Ares-Nemesis team was behind Rachel's chariot, but not for long. They caught them, and Lauren from Ares's team started to spare with Chris. The son of Hermes tried his best, but Lauren hit the diva in her shoulder and she let go the reins for a second.
After the blow perpetrated by Lauren, the team Hermes-Zeus were left behind. The teams ahead started to fight and throw arrows and Greek fire to the teams following them.
"Hold on!" Rachel yelled to Chris. The horses were not responding. Now I'm certain that something is wrong with them. Iris and Athena's trios ran past Rachel's chariot.
Chris, who was holding on for dear life, yelled, "Rae, stop! I did give something to the horses!"
I knew it. Rachel started to pull off when she saw Ares's chariot on fire and out of control.
"Get out!" Lauren had screamed before her chariot crashed with Athena's, which collided with Iris's. Demigods started to panic and shout.
Rachel turned around and saw a flaming chariot going toward Quinn. For the love of the Olympians! "Quinn!" Rachel lost track of what was happening.
Chris flew through the air. The stallions went in super speed. A burning chariot clashed into Rachel's horses and pieces rushed to the ground, but the horses weren't dead…. Half-Bloods were on the floor and Quinn was hurt. Part of her body burned, and the blonde wasn't breathing.
The water, take her to the water, a voice said in Rachel's head. When you have been dealing with monsters, gods, titans, and other mythological creatures, you learn that if you are hearing voices, you don't have to worry, it is not schizophrenia… And you probably have to follow or ponder their instructions. Rachel examined her chariot. When did someone buy indestructible equines!? Not important, you can transport Quinn…. Just move your ass, woman!
Rachel lifted Quinn, placed her in the chariot, and practically ignored all the shouts around her.
"Go!" the diva ordered, and the horses sped up.
The blonde and the brunette arrived to the river and the equines ran into the stream; the water enveloped Quinn, new skin replacing the burned one. Most of her wounds were closing.
Quinn came back to consciousness. "You saved me." A big trident made of water was floating above her head.
For Zeus's sake! Really, Quinn is the daughter of my father's brother? "I will always do my best to keep you safe, Quinn Fabray, daughter of Poseidon."
"Poseidon?"
"Quinn," Rachel said, pointing. I don't have anything against my uncle. Unfortunately, my sire doesn't feel the same…. My father can go to Tartarus, I still have a chance. My father's prejudices are his problem, not mine.
Quinn looked up to see the sign as one of the horses started to neigh.
"Poseidon." said Balios the horse. "Earth-shaker, storm-bringer, father of horses. HAIL, Quinn, daughter of the Sea God… I don't want to sound imposed, but could you tell your friend to let go of Xhantos? My brother hates heroes, after what happened with Achilles; also, he wants to groom the genital of the chariot dope pusher."
"Brother! ...Why? …How...? …Horses…can…can't talk," Quinn stumbled over her words
"Quinn, are you feeling okay? Wait! I have some ambrosia in my pocket, here, take it!" Rachel's voice sounded desperate.
"Yes, we can talk…you are the ones that don't have the capacity to understand us, that is not our problem…. Besides, you are daughter of Poseidon and you can understand us," the horse snorted. "Are you going to tell your friend or not?" Bailos squealed. "He would tell her himself, but he doesn't speak with humans anymore."
"But you said that only children of Poseidon can speak with you?" Quinn remarked.
"Hera granted Xhantos human speech, but he had the great idea of speaking some truths to Achilles and the dude revenged. My brother has never been the same," said Balios.
"Okay." Quinn nodded. "Rachel, cut the reins of the stallions," Quinn requested.
Rachel cut them. "Thanks for your help," the brunette acknowledged the horse. I'm not a genius, but I not a moron either. In any case, I guessed that Quinn was having a conversation with the horse or horses.
"He is saying that they came to my aid, because father sent them." Quinn informed Rachel and added, "Did you know about this?"
"About the horses speaking?" Quinn arched her eyebrow and Rachel sighed. "I forgot…sorry." Rachel looked ashamed. "Your father created horses."
One of the stallions went away and the other walked with the two girls to the field.
Infirmary…
"How long do I have to be here?"
"Another forty minutes, Chrion wants to be sure you're okay," Rachel said.
"I didn't want to offend his race," Quinn grumbled. The girl had one nasty bruise on her back and an egg bump on the back of her head. The stallion had kicked twice. "I was in shock about my father and his horse transformation."
"Yes, the gods tends to experiment sex in all forms. If it helps you out, Atalanta encountered Arion a few times, and she holds him in high regard. Your brother is very loyal and gallant…. He also loves to use profane language, but that can be endearing sometimes," Rachel smiled.
"It's weird," Quinn pouted.
"You will get used to our uncommon kindred."
"Really?" Quinn's pout vanished and her face lit up at the new, encouraging information.
"Nope…sorry," Rachel admitted, and smiled again as Quinn moped. "Here comes the airplane," Rachel fed her ambrosia pudding.
Quinn blushed. "I'm not a toddler."
"But you are loving it," Rachel flirted with her. "How does it taste?" the brunette asked and added, "Wait! I think I know the answer. Does it tastes like Mo's Milk Chocolate Bacon Bar?" Rachel asked playfully.
"I'm not obsessed with bacon," Quinn glared and then chuckled. "Okay, maybe I am, but this tastes like my mom's whoopie pies. She used to make them when I was a child."
"A happy memory, then. I guess I will have to ask Mrs. Fabray for the recipe." The diva fed her another spoonful. "What is your general opinion about the act of sneaking out?" Rachel left the plate over the bedside table, gave Quinn a quick kiss in the forehead, took her hand, and pulled the blonde out from the bed.
"Be careful, I just got a contusion."
Rachel made a quick inspection. "The ambrosia cured you and the five minutes has passed." The brunette pulled her again. "Shh! Don't make a sound." The two girls jumped out of the window.
FABERRY-FABERRY- FABERRY-FABERRY- FABERRY-FABERRY
"Do you remember our conversation in my cabin? I promised to show you something. It's a surprise, and, well, to be honest… I'm not sure if you will like it…. Maybe surprise is not the accurate word… I'm not even sure if you will like it, but I'm certain it will answer some questions…."
"Rachel, you're rambling." Quinn arched her eyebrow.
"Sorry." Uncle, don't get mad if I want to kiss her. Rachel took a golden drachma and dropped it in the permanent rainbow near the Juniper tree. "Oh, Iris, goddess of the Rainbow, accept my offering. Show me Judy Fabray in Lima, Ohio."
The image of an older version of Quinn appeared in a very familiar living room. What is Judy Fabray doing in my house?
"Quinn?" Judy was sitting between a white man with glasses and a dark one.
"Mom." The happiness in Quinn's eyes made Rachel smile.
"It's okay." Rachel squeezed Quinn's hand. "Mrs Fabray, Dad, Daddy."
"Rae, how are you? Are the others safe? Did you kill Atalanta? Are you angry with me?"
"Nothing else you want to add, daddy?" Rachel smiled wryly while everyone else started cackling. "I'm fine; as far as I know everyone is fine; Atalanta is alive; and at the beginning, I was really angry with you two…blood, really? ...However, I'm very grateful now."
Hiram punched LeRoy. "See? Chiron didn't lie to us."
"Mmm… Dad, Daddy, I don't want to be rude, but I think Quinn and her mom need some time alone."
"Take care and say hi to grandpa," said Hiram.
"I will give him your regards," Rachel stated. Like Mr. D gives a damn.
"We love you, and please follow Atala's advice, and don't give up with you-know-who."
How the Hades does he know? Rachel's eyes grew wide.
"I won't. I love you." Rachel gave Quinn two more drachmas. "I'm delighted to make your acquaintance again, Mrs. Fabray. And please, don't worry for Quinn, I will keep her safe." Rachel looked at Quinn. "I will wait for you in the blueberry bush." The brunette leaned closer and whispered in her ear, "Have I earned a date with a captivating, amazing, and gorgeous blonde?" Rachel asked and turned around.
Rachel left Quinn with a pretty pink color on the tips of her ears.
FABERRY-FABERRY- FABERRY-FABERRY- FABERRY-FABERRY
Rachel was waiting for Quinn when she saw Britt.
"Rach, I need your help," the dancer said and dragged the brunette away.
"How can I help you, Britt? You're not in any trouble, are you?"
"No, silly, I'm fine. San has a problem." Britt stopped in front of the stables. "She is inside. She's hiding."
"Is this a prank?" Rachel asked suspiciously. "Because now that I know San is a demigod, retaliations are permitted."
"She knows. I told Santana that you will kick her ass, but don't worry, it's not a prank." Britt shook her head in amusement and crossed the doors of the stables. "Rach is here."
"Hobbit, come here."
"San, you need to be nice if you want her help."
"Man Hands, you better come in here or I'm going Lima Heights Adjacent-"
Rachel could hear the voice of Santana.
"San!" Britt reprimanded her girlfriend.
Rachel chuckled and went inside; she spotted the Latina and started to laugh. "Oh My gods!"
"Britt," the Latina pouted. "She's laughing." The taller brunette's face was white, her cheeks were adorned by two red hearts, her right eye was surrounded by little hearts, her left one had a design that simulated an arrow, her mouth was bright red, and two small circles were adorning the extremes of her mouth. Her eyebrow had been exaggerated with black pencil and the tip of her nose was red.
"You're a clown, San. That's normal, clowns love to make folks laugh," the blonde said with a wicked smile and joined the diva.
After hearing Britt, Rachel's laugher increased.
"Come on, it's not funny." Santana was tapping the floor with her foot in annoyance.
"For Zeus! She also made you use the shoes of shame!" Rachel said, pointing at the shoes "Doropez, we need to find you a Chihuahua for Toto."
Santana was using curling-toe red slippers covered in glitter with mismatched heels, giant bows, and flashing LEDs that detected motion.
"I don't know how she did it," Santana said, sitting on the floor and failing in her attempt to remove the hideous footwear. "The makeup is water proof or something." Santana's voice was revealing her humiliation and confusion. The Latina was seconds away from crying.
Rachel and Britt ceased their laughter.
"You are a sexy clown." The dancer had her girlfriend in her arms. "Can I tell you a secret?" Britt caressed her girlfriend. "Sometimes I get turned on by girl clowns. The last time I went to my cousin's party, I couldn't stop myself from escaping to the bathroom and masturbating."
"Is that the reason you want me to hire a clown for your birthday?" Santana asked.
"Not just any clown, I want the clown from my cousin's party. She's not as hot as you, but I thought we could have a threesome."
"Too much information, Britt. You've reveled sexual fantasies that I didn't want to be aware of. Do you need a private moment?" Rachel wanted to run.
"No. Look, Berry, you have to help me. I want to remove the stupid makeup and these shoes and then kick that bitch-ass." Santana added, "Don't worry, Britt, we can play sexy clown later. I think I saw an erotic clown costume on our favorite sex toy site."
Rachel didn't want to know more of their sexual adventures, so she decided to redirect the conversation. "Let's go to my cabin and then to Aphrodite's. I will interchange my designer boots for the returning of your appearance; you are lucky that she doesn't dare to use her charm-speak on me."
"What?" Santana asked.
Rachel rolled her eyes. "Charm-speak is a type of hypnotism or persuasion in which it allows the speaker to convince someone else to do or get whatever they want. If I were another person and went to trade with her, you would look the same and I would end up without the boots and with her promise to not use her ability on you for a while."
"Would you do that for me? Those boots look expensive."
"To answered your question: yes, I would do it for you and for the other campers. You are correct, the boots are expensive. They are Louis Vuitton 2005-2006 collection, their price is around $2,000 to $3,500."
"What is your shoe size?" Santa asked with greed in her brown eyes.
"It depends..."
"On?" Santana inquired, picturing herself with the boots. They would look amazing with my red dress
"…On how long you want to wear your new look and clean the cabin with a pink toothbrush," Rachel answered nonchalantly.
Santana had imagined her future over the rule of Drew, and realization hit her. "Hobbit, I'm never going to forget this." The girl got close to Rachel and grabbed the diva by the shoulder in a gratitude gesture.
"Good, because you are going to help me."
"With Quinn?"
"That would be nice, Santana; however, you need to stop Drew and become the new Aphrodite counselor. You can be cruel, but she can be cruel on another level." Rachel frowned in disgust.
"Rach, why can't she use her ability with you?" Britt asked, interested in what the daughter of Zeus had said.
"Two words," Rachel held up two fingers. "Atalanta Bailleres." Rachel turned and started to walk toward the cabins. "We also have to visit Hecate's cabin, they can help Santana learn how to speak Charmspeak or how to become immune to it."
"Why do they help us?" Britt asked as she followed the girl, pulling her girlfriend by the hand.
"The same two words, and before you ask me, she gave me the boots." Rachel turned her head to look at the Cheerios. "She comes from a wealthy family. You can google her last name."
Mythology Gleektionary:
Arion: he is the immortal equine son of the gods Ceres and Neptune.
Dionysus: he is the Greek god of grape-harvest, wine, madness, parties, and ecstasy as well as theater. He is also known as Mr. D, the camp director of Camp Half-Blood. After chasing after an off-limits wood nymph twice, Zeus punished him by putting him in charge of Camp Half-Blood for 100 years. During this time, he is not allowed to drink wine. He enjoys calling demigods by incorrect names.
Charmspeaking: it is a rare type of hypnotism ability that chosen children of Aphrodite possess. It can also be taught to people who are able to use magic, like Circe or Medea. Charmspeak can be a very powerful weapon, as it can make people do anything on command.
Drachma: Greek currency
Additional Notes:
When a child of Aphrodite is claimed, her blessing is on. The demigod is enveloped in a pink haze and will then look the way that Aphrodite thinks would be the most glamorous; his/her hair and makeup will be automatically done to perfection and his/her old clothes will be swapped with a fashionable outfit, shoes, and accessories; the blessing can last a week.
*Demigods usually have dreams or visions that have a meaning.