I DO NOT OWN PJO OR HoO
Percy had been on a lot of dangerous quests, but hunting monsters with Artemis felt different. It wasn't just the sheer power and grace she displayed. It was the way the world seemed to fall into place around her. She moved like a shadow, fluid and untouchable, and Percy found himself caught between awe and something else, something he couldn't quite name.
They had ventured deep into the woods, following a trail of broken branches and disturbed earth. Artemis was focused, her eyes scanning the surroundings with an intensity that made everything around them feel heightened. The air was thick with the scent of something unnatural—a monster, perhaps, or something worse.
As they neared a clearing, the sound of rustling echoed in the distance. Percy's hand instinctively gripped Riptide. Artemis held up her hand, signaling him to stop.
"Stay back," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "This is my domain. Let me handle this."
Percy nodded, though part of him wanted to jump in and fight beside her. But as Artemis moved forward, her movements were fluid and precise. She was in her element, the embodiment of a huntress, and for a moment, Percy couldn't tear his eyes away.
The monster was a chimera—its scales dark as night, with eyes that burned like fire. It snarled as it spotted Artemis, its tail flicking in agitation. Percy tensed, ready to leap in, but Artemis stepped forward, her bow already drawn.
"You'll regret stepping into my woods," Artemis said coldly, releasing the arrow in one swift motion.
The arrow hit the chimera square in the chest, but it didn't fall. The monster roared, charging at her with terrifying speed.
Percy didn't think. He ran forward, summoning water from the nearby creek, and sent a wave crashing into the chimera's side, knocking it off course. The beast howled in fury, its head snapping toward Percy. Before it could react, Artemis was upon it, her dagger gleaming in the moonlight as she struck it down with lethal precision.
The chimera collapsed to the ground, and for a moment, there was nothing but silence.
"Impressive," Artemis said, wiping the blood from her blade. Her silver eyes flicked to Percy, a glimmer of something—appreciation?—shining in her gaze. "Not many can keep up with me."
Percy grinned, though his heart was still pounding from the fight. "I've had my share of crazy adventures."
Artemis studied him for a moment, the corners of her mouth twitching as if she were considering something. "You're different from the others," she said softly, almost to herself.
"How so?" Percy asked, feeling a strange heat rise in his chest.
She hesitated before answering. "You don't fear me."
Percy blinked, caught off guard. "Should I?"
"No," Artemis said firmly, her voice low but sincere. "It's... refreshing."
Pls review thank you