Kokabiel PoV
The flight to Knossos was uneventful.
I could have simply teleported directly, but Grayfia had suggested we take Indra's chariot again. Something about "maintaining proper appearances" and "arriving with appropriate ceremony."
I suspected she just enjoyed flying in it.
We soared over the Mediterranean, the ancient sea glittering beneath us in the afternoon sun. The chariot moved smoothly, divine enchantments making the journey comfortable despite the speed.
"Tell me more about this place," I said to Grayfia. "What exactly is Athena planning?"
Grayfia pulled out a detailed file—because of course she had one prepared. "According to our intelligence, Camp Half-Blood will serve as a training facility and safe haven for demigod children. The Greek gods have become concerned about the increasing mortality rate of their offspring."
She continued reading. "Chiron, the famous trainer of heroes, will serve as activities director and primary instructor. The camp will teach combat skills, monster identification, Greek mythology, and survival techniques."
"Smart," I admitted. "Their demigod children are vulnerable when they don't know what they are. Monsters hunt them, and they have no idea why. This will save lives.
You have let the other faction's monsters roam free and made it their obligation to be responsible for any damage done. This has given them some hunting activities to enjoy as well"
I nodded. " Yes. Too much free time isn't good. If they are busy dealing with pests, they will have less time to complain or scheme."
"Lady Athena's influence is apparent in the planning," Grayfia noted. "The strategic and educational components are very thorough. I believe Zeus had not much interest in it despite being the major contributor to the student population."
I chuckled. "That sounds like them. Athena is Always thinking three steps ahead while Zeus is probably planning to which three women he will sleep with next."
We continued flying, and I noticed Grayfia glancing at me occasionally with an odd expression.
"Something on your mind?" I asked.
She hesitated, which was unusual for her. "Permission to speak candidly, Kokabiel-sama?"
"Always granted, Grayfia. You know that. I'm not one for too much bureaucracy."
She took a breath. "How do you maintain such... distance from everything? You observe the world, you influence events, you care for your siblings and friends.
Yet you also seem fundamentally above all of it. Watching from outside even when you're directly involved. You have the power to rule our world absolutely, but you are satisfied with just a delicate balance. Very few can withstand such temptations."
I was quiet for a long moment, considering how to answer.
"It's the nature of what I am," I finally said. "I am someone who exists partially outside normal reality. I have seen too much, known too much. The past, present, future—they all blur together for a being like me. It makes genuine emotional engagement difficult."
I looked down at the water passing below. "When you can see all possible outcomes simultaneously, when you know how every story ends before it begins, staying invested in the moment becomes... challenging."
"But you do stay invested," Grayfia pointed out. "You made friends with those otherworlders. You care about your siblings. You're going to this ceremony because someone you consider a friend asked you to."
"Trying to stay invested," I corrected. "There's a difference. It's a constant effort to remain anchored to the present, to care about outcomes I already know, to find meaning in actions whose consequences I've already seen."
I added wryly. " And I'm not willingly going there. She blackmailed me."
Grayfia chuckled lightly. "Yet you are going there despite not needing to. Nobody in this world could force you to do anything. But you still try to maintain a somewhat ordinary life."
I shrugged. " It is either that or I become too detached and arrogant, and start seeing everything and everyone as ants beneath my feet . Maybe start erasing people because their existence means nothing to me."
"That sounds exhausting." Grayfia spoke with a hesitant tone.
"It is," I admitted. "But the alternative is worse. Becoming completely detached, completely apathetic. Losing all connection to the world and beings around me. That way lies madness of a different sort. And trust me, if I became like that, all worlds shall cease to exist."
Grayfia was quiet, processing this.
"Thank you for sharing that, Kokabiel-sama. It helps me understand you better."
"You're welcome." I paused. "And Grayfia? You can drop the honorifics when we're alone like this. 'Kokabiel' is fine."
She looked genuinely shocked. "I couldn't possibly! That's disrespectful to your standing."
"I'm giving you permission. Consider it an order if that makes you more comfortable."
She struggled with this for a moment, then quietly said, "I will consider it , Kokabiel sama."
I smiled wryly. "It's gonna take a while probably."
We arrived at Camp Half-Blood as the sun was beginning to set.
The camp entrance was based on Long Island, magically hidden from mortal eyes. But it was truly placed in a sub dimension in the forests of Knossos that connects through a portal.
Below them was the famous Labyrinth of Minotaur, serving as an emergency bunker of sorts. Not a bad plan.
As we descended, I could see the valley below—cabins arranged in a rough omega shape, a central gathering area with a fire pit, training grounds, an arena, and various other facilities.
Chiron was waiting at the entrance, his centaur form immediately recognizable.
"Lord Kokabiel," he greeted with a respectful bow. "Welcome to Camp Half-Blood. The gods will be pleased you could attend."
"Chiron," I nodded in return. "It's been a while. You're looking well. I don't think Zeus or Ares won't be too happy to see me."
"As are you, my lord. I see your words and humor are still direct as ever." He glanced at Grayfia with curiosity. "And you've brought a companion?"
"This is Grayfia, my Bishop and personal assistant. Grayfia, this is Chiron, the greatest trainer of heroes in Greek history."
Grayfia bowed formally. "It's an honor to meet you, Chiron sama."
"The honor is mine, Lady Grayfia." Chiron smiled warmly. "Any companion of Lord Kokabiel is welcome here."
He turned back to me. "The ceremony begins in approximately one hour. Lady Athena is currently making final preparations. She asked that you meet her at the Big House when you arrived."
"Lead the way," I gestured.
As we walked through the camp, I noticed the various demigod children stopping to stare. Most looked no older than teenagers—young, uncertain, many showing signs of recent combat or trauma.
"How many are currently in residence?" I asked.
"Twenty-three," Chiron replied. "We expect that number to grow significantly once word spreads among the demigod community. Many are currently unaware that this sanctuary exists."
We reached the Big House—a large blue building that served as the camp's administrative center.
Athena was waiting on the porch.
She looked exactly as I remembered—tall, regal, grey eyes sharp with intelligence. Her silver blonde hair was braided in an elegant style, and she wore a mixture of ancient Greek robes and modern practical clothing.
"Kokabiel," she smiled. "I'm so glad you could make it. I was worried I might have to follow through on my threat."
"Your threat was very convincing," I replied dryly. "Though I question the ethics of supernatural coercion."
"All's fair in love and war," she said cheerfully with a wink. "And this qualified as war against your stubborn refusal to attend social functions. Although we can make it about love if you just agree." She gave a smirk.
I shook my head. "I don't think I will."
Athena mock gasped. " Ah, the heartbreak! Rejected again!"
Grayfia was watching this interaction with barely concealed fascination.
" Athena, let me introduce you two." I said formally, "this is Grayfia, my Bishop. She joined my peerage just this week."
Athena's eyes lit up with interest. "The former devil who converted? I heard about that. Remarkable achievement, Kokabiel. The conversion process alone should have been impossible."
She extended her hand to Grayfia. "Welcome, Grayfia. Any devil brave enough to become an angel deserves respect."
Grayfia shook her hand, looking slightly overwhelmed. "Thank you, Lady Athena. I'm honored."
"Now then," Athena turned back to me. "Shall we discuss the ceremony? I have some notes prepared about what I'd like you to say..."
"I'm not reading a prepared speech," I interrupted immediately. " Specially one that has convenietly written about a marriage to celebrate the opening of this place."
"I knew you'd say that, figured I might as well try." she sighed. "Fine. Just speak from the heart. These children need to hear from someone powerful yet compassionate. Someone who understands what it means to fight and survive."
I nodded. "I can do that."
Athena then started pulling me. "Let's go meet Celeste. She is quite eager to meet her half brother."
I smiled wryly. " You are enjoying this too much. No wonder Zeus is absent."
She waved it off " He is over it. I heardhe is planning to sever the marriage with Hera and Marry someone else. She has been rather angry at the rumors."
I sighed. "They should be happy. Both of them clearly hold no love, yet the greed for power and maintaining reputation is keeping them together. That's not how marriage works."
Athena looked weirdly. " Says the guy rejecting every single marriage proposal for millenias. I thought you were incapable of understanding such things."
I replied nonchalantly. " I never said I can't learn. It might take time, but I am slowly getting better. I have good friends."
Athena rubbed her chin as shelooked me up and down. " How interesting. You do feel different. More alive even."
Before I could respond, we were greeted by a bubbly and cheerful voice. " Hello Athena! Is that my brother from Heaven who kicked Zeus's ass? He doesn't look too tough. Are you sure he's that scary? Even I can kick his ass."
'Puchi!'
Grayfia and Athena both covered their mouth to supress the laughter which was not successful. I gave a sharp look and Grayfia immediately straightened up. But Athena lept shaking with laughter.
I stood there looking at the teenage girl scrutinizing me like a customer buying goods at a thrift store.
She had long flowing silver hair combed neatly, . Her face was heart shaped and childish, with a slightly tanned skin. She was a beautiful little girl. But her attitude was a bit haughty.
My eyes were twitching. " Aren't you a rude kid." I remarked dryly.
The girl named Celeste crossed her arms. "Who's rude? I thought you are supposed to be my big, strong, brother who can beat up all the bad guys. And Aren't you supposed to be be nice to me and bring me lots of gifts? You are such a cheap guy. Tsk tsk" She shook her head, clicking her tongue.
I looked at Athena questioningly and she sheepishly replied. " I might have gotten her expectations up a bit. She was looking forward to the gifts her big brother might bring."
I pinched the bridge of my nose. " Firstly, Celeste, I am not sure what you expected, but I'm here because Athena saw fit to blackmail me." I gave her a look and she looked away whistling.
" Secondly, neither I or any of my siblings in heaven have never met you before. So you can't expect us to be fawning over you . We need to Atleast know each other for that.
We do share a connection due to him, and I won't deny that. But Given that you are part of the Greek pantheon, it's complicated. Specially when your mother is the queen of Olympus. "
Celeste whined in a bratty voice. " So what? Your father is also my father. Most of the people here hates me or barely tolerates me for my birth.
Only big sis Athena, Artemis, Perciphone plays with me. Apollo and Hermes sometimes brings me presents, but everyone else avoids me or talks badly. It's so annoying to live here."
Athena pinched her cheek, making her squeal. " Because you are always causing troubles to seek attention, and too proud to back down. If you learned to apologize more or be kinder with the others, you would have many more friends."
Celeste struggled to get free. " Who wants to be friends with those stinky kids!"
I sighed. "What an annoying brat. Your father would have spanked you if he was here."
The mood became somber after those words. Celeste looked down and mumbled something. Athena patted her head while giving me wry smile. " You really need to hold back some thoughts or not speak them out loud, Kokabiel."
Hera decided to appear at that moment. She looked regal as always, but there was a trace of something else underneath it. "Greetings Kokabiel. It's been a while."
Celeste immediately latched onto her and she rubbed her head affectionately. " Hello dear, did you meet your brother?"
Celeste mumbled something but didn't look up.
I gave her a curt nod. " Lady Hera, a pleasure to meet you. Your radiance is bright as ever. I trust you have been well?"
She waved it off with a smile. " Hush, your praises are always too much. Come, Let us talk privately. We have a oot to discuss."
I followed her silently with Grayfia, Athena and Celeste following closely. Celeste was sulking and glared at me from time to time. I just shook my head and walked.
Once we were inside the cabin, Hera cast a barrier to give us some privacy. This does not bode well.
She gave me a disarming smile. " Don't be alarmed Kokabiel. I won't ask too much of you."
She looked out the window to where a few kids ran past without any care. " Your father... He talked about you a lot. He was very proud of you and his children. I... We did something foolish, and I'm now shunned by my family since that incident. "
She paused and stroked Celeste's hair fondly. " But I don't regret it. This little one has brought me so much joy and happiness , I would not change that for the world. But..." She trailed off. " I don't want my child to suffer for my mistake. No matter what , Zeus was still my husband. But now that he plans to take another wife, I believe it's time for us to leave this place."
Athena held her hand and gave a firm squeeze. Hera smiled at the gesture.
Grayfia kept her face neutral, but I could see the sympathy in her eyes. I sighed and asked gently. "If I understand correctly, you wish for Heaven to take you in and offer our protection and hospitality , for you and your daughter?"
Hera gave a weak smile."Yes. That's all I ask. I know it's a bit much, but you are the only person who we can trust absolutely to protect us. Even if Zeus or someone else tried to harm us, you could protect us."
Celeste also looked hopefully with her big red eyes. I could see the slight resemblance with Michael and Gabriel. She was Yahweh's biological daughter after all. I can't deny that makes her our little sister, even if she is partially a goddess.
I thought For a moment then spoke." If it's just refuge you seek, that should be fine. I believe the others would welcome you to heaven. Celeste is our sister after all. We don't turn away one of our own.
But doing so would mean a permanent drift between our pantheons. You also can never go back home as you would be a part of Heaven."
Hera looked surprised . " You agreed just like that? I thought you would like to think more or discuss with others?"
I shrugged. " I have the authority to make any decision regarding heaven without any discussion. Michael and the others trust my judgement."
Celeste asked hesitantly. " Does that mean we are going to stay in heaven?"
I bent down to meet her eyes. I tried to speak as gently as possible. "Of course. You will also be allowed to travel around Earth to learn more and gain experience. You don't need to worry about anything. Just be free and happy."
Celeste let out a cheerful cry and jumped on me like a koala. I chuckled and patted her head. " Everything will be alright now. Just don't cause any troubles in heaven. "
She stuck out her tongue. " I never cause troubles! It's just people are too jealous of my beauty and stirs up problems."
I replied dryly. " Atleast you are humble and not narcissistic."
Celeste grinned. " See! I knew you would understand!"
Athena shook her head. " That's called sarcasm my dear. Your brother apparently invented it. Even I can't understand if he's being real or joking sometimes. "
Celeste immediately glared and showed her shark teeth. " You suck! " She bit on my shoulder, then promptly clutched her jaw. " Ow ow ow! What are you made of ! My teeth hurts ." She complained with tearful eyes.
Hera giggled and hugged her " they don't call him the strongest being in the world for nothing. Be nice and always listen to him obediently from now on. He is the only one capable enough to protect you against any threat. Treat him as you would treat me. "
Celeste whined. " But moooommm..."
Athena patted her head to coax her. "Kokabiel can take you away from here. Didn't you always dreamed about outside world and adventures? With him, you can do that. "
She seems pacified at that. " Really?"
Athena giggled. " Of course dear. Isn't that right Kokabiel?" She gave me a look.
I coughed. " That wouldn't be a problem. She is free to go wherever she pleases as long as it doesn't cause a problem."
All her gloom vanished like magic as Celeste cheered. " Great! I am so sick of always staying at home! You're not so bad after all !"
I shrugged. "Coming from you, that must be quite a compliment."
As she ignored the words and continued her cheering, Athena leaned in whispered softly. " She has been quite sheltered due to Zeus's anger. Please give her time and be patient with her."
I replied lightly. "You seem quite attached to her. Perhaps you should find a man and settle down finally. You'd make a good mother."
Athena sighed as she leaned on my shoulder. " The only man who stole my heart is telling me to find someone else. You can be rather cruel sometimes."
I fell silent. Of course I knew that. But rather than giving a false hope, I wish for her to move on and be happy. I will always cherish her friendship, but her love? That is something I can't return.
Not to mention there's Katie, with who I still need to figure out what we are. I could not deny I saw her differently from others. It was all so foreign to me, navigating these feelings.
I shook my head to clear the thoughts , then met Athena's eyes. "I'm sorry, Athena. You are a dear friend, and I can't lie to you. It'd be far more cruel to paint an illusion for you..."
She silenced me with a finger." I know. But a girl can always hope. " She winked. " Maybe one day we can have a child together, even without being together."
I snorted. " Maybe if you can get me drunk enough and try for a couple centuries or so. "
Athena giggled. " I wouldn't mind that. It'd be a... Pleasurable experience."
Celeste who was watching the exchange asked Hera curiously. " Mom, why is Sister Athena is acting... Weirdly with him? She is usually so calm and aloof, but now she is so different."
Hera chuckled . " That's what happens when you fall in love, my dear. " Then she added softly. " Even if that love will never be returned."
After the decision was made, We then discussed the specifics of their migration and how to negotiate with the Greek pantheon. There's also the matter of other pantheons reactions.
Recruiting the former Queen of Greek pantheon and her daughter, right after recruiting a noble devil lady might give the idea that we were slowly absorbing stronger beings into heaven to weaken other pantheons. Maybe even planning a war.
Grayfia coughed lightly as we finished discussing. " It's almost time for the ceremony Kokabiel sama. I've prepared some speech notes for you."
I nodded and got up. " I think I'll wing it, it's weird to read from notes. Anyway, Let's finish this later. Let's go and greet the children first."
Celeste asked curiously. " What does that mean? Did you bring chicken wings for us? I knew you would bring something at least!"
I pinched my forehead. " Is she being serious?"
Hera sighed. " Unfortunately, yes. I will entrust her education to you. Please make her less stupid than my siblings. I know it will be hard, hut I'm counting on you."
Celeste gasped at the betrayal. " Mom! How could you! You said I'm intelligent and beautiful."
I remarked dryly. " If you were intelligent, you'd realize that was a placating lie."
Celeste stomped her feet. " Hmph. You are just jealous."
Athena giggled and took my arm. " Alright, don't fight. It's an important day. Let us complete the ceremony. This shall mark a new era."
*****
An hour later, the entire camp had gathered in the central area.
Twenty-three demigod children stood in a loose semi-circle, along with Chiron, Athena, and several nature spirits who helped maintain the camp.
Grayfia stood slightly behind me, observing everything with professional interest. Celeste and Hera stood beside her, observing with attention.
There were some avatars of other gods present. Ares, Poseidon, Aphrodite and some others. Zeus was noticeably absent which was good.
Athena stepped forward first. "Children of the gods, honored guests, and friends. Today marks the official opening of Camp Half-Blood—a sanctuary for those of divine heritage, a place of learning, growth, and safety."
Her voice carried easily across the crowd. "Many of you have suffered. You've been hunted, isolated, confused about your nature. Some of you have lost friends or family. That ends here. This camp is your home for as long as you need it."
She gestured to me. "I've invited Lord Kokabiel, An Archangel of Heaven and the most powerful being in existence, to speak with you. He will also be a director of this school ."
I glared at Athena who returned it with a flirty wink and continued. "He understands sacrifice. He understands what it means to protect others. More importantly, he knows what true strength is. Please give him your attention."
The kids all perked up as I took the front. Athena's declaration had made the excited and they looked with expectant eyes.
The strongest being in the world giving an address to you personally was something beyond their dreams. Strength is always feared and respected in this world. So this literally made their day.
I stepped forward, and twenty-three pairs of eyes fixed on me. I scanned the crowd to learn their identities.
About 6 of them were Zeus's children, that he claimed atleast. There is a weird tradition that the divine parents to claim them and bestow their blessings. I didn't approve of such traditions.
If you brought a life to the world, you must be responsible for their care, no matter what. Choosing to claim them only when they show some promise , that's just archaic.
4 were children of Ares. Ares actually cared for his demigod childrens. I could sense the slight gentleness from his avatar whenever he would look at them.
Poseidon, Apollo, Hephaestus, Hermes and Heracles's children made up the rest of the numbers. There was also place for other gods children for future. Any of the unclaimed children would be in Hera's camp, under her protection.
Zeus's daughter Aegilla, Poseidon's son Deimos , and Hephaestus's son Theocles were promising among them. They had the potential to become minor gods in future.
I didn't use any prepared notes by Grayfia. I just spoke honestly to the expectant kids.
"You've all been dealt a difficult hand," I began. "Children of gods and mortals, caught between two worlds, belonging fully to neither. Hunted by monsters. Often abandoned by your divine parents. It's not fair, and I won't pretend otherwise."
Some of the children nodded, appreciating the honesty.
"But here's what I want you to understand. Your divine heritage doesn't define your worth. Your godly parent didn't make you special, you were already special. The blood of Olympus just gave you more to work with."
I paused, making sure they were listening.
"You're going to face challenges. Some of you will go on quests. Some will fight monsters. Some might even fight in wars. And I won't lie to you—some of you might not survive."
Athena looked like she wanted to interrupt, but I continued.
"But the ones who do survive? You'll be stronger for it. You'll have found family here, formed bonds that last lifetimes. You'll have learned what it means to stand up when everything inside you says to run."
I smiled slightly. "That's what makes a hero. Not power. Not divine parentage. But the choice to stand bravely in the face of danger anyway."
I could see some of the children standing straighter, their expressions shifting.
"This camp will train you. Chiron will teach you skills that have made heroes legendary for millennia. Lady Athena has provided wisdom and resources. The gods, despite their flaws, are trying to give you a chance."
I then added with a sigh. " And since Athena have decided to make me a part of this place, I will also drop by from time to time." Athena gave a victorius smirk.
I shoook mm y head and continued."Use it well. Protect each other. Learn from your failures. Celebrate your victories. And remember that being a demigod isn't a curse, it's an opportunity. What you do with that opportunity is entirely up to you."
I stepped back. "That's all I have to say. Except this: You're stronger than you think. All of you. Don't forget that."
The silence that followed was profound.
Then one of the children started clapping. Then another. Soon the entire camp was applauding.
Athena was smiling at me with approval.
"See?" she said quietly. "That wasn't so terrible, was it?"
"I still hate public speaking," I replied, but I was smiling too.
After the ceremony, there was a small feast.
The children were more relaxed now, laughing and talking. The atmosphere had shifted from nervous anticipation to genuine celebration.
Chiron approached me as I was observing from the side. "That was well said, Lord Kokabiel. You gave them hope without false promises. That's exactly what they needed."
"I just told them the truth," I said. "They deserve at least that much."
"Indeed." Chiron paused. "May I ask you something?"
"Of course."
"Do you ever wish you could experience what they do? The uncertainty, the discovery, the genuine surprise at what comes next?"
I considered the question seriously. "Sometimes. There's a beauty in not knowing the future. In facing each day as a mystery to unfold. I lost that when I ascended."
"Do you regret it?"
"No," I said firmly. "Because with this power, I can protect people who still have that uncertainty. I can give them chances they wouldn't otherwise have. That's worth the sacrifice."
Chiron nodded thoughtfully. "A noble perspective."
Athena joined us, holding a goblet of wine. "Everything went perfectly. Thank you again for coming, Kokabiel."
"You're welcome. Though I could have done without the blackmail."
She laughed. "It wasn't blackmail. It was aggressive negotiation."
Hera smiled." Knowing your reputation to seek isolation, I'd say she was justified."
"Speaking of which," Athena's expression became more serious. "I've been hearing concerning rumors from the Norse. Something about Ragnarok approaching faster than prophecied. Have you looked into it?"
I nodded. "I'm aware. Loki has been more active recently, and Odin is becoming paranoid. But the timeline isn't as immediate as some fear. We have time."
"Good to know." She relaxed slightly. "I worry about that prophecy. So much destruction."
"Prophecies are tricky things," I said. "They describe possible futures, not inevitable ones. With the right interventions, even Ragnarok can be altered."
"You've altered prophecies before?" Celeste asked eagerly.
"Some of them. It's delicate work, but possible." I couldn't help but pinch her cheek.
Celeste swatted my hand with a glare. " Stop doing that! I'm not a child!"
Grayfia appeared at my side, professional as always. "Kokabiel-sama, It's getting late. Should we prepare to depart?"
I glanced at the sky. Night had fully fallen, stars visible above the valley.
"Yes, we should. We still need to check on that vampire situation in Romania."
Celeste slumped down. " You are leaving so soon?"
I embraced her gently. " For now. I will be back sooner than you think."
She looked hopefully. " You promise?"
" I promise kiddo."
Athena raised an eyebrow. "Vampires in Romania? How... stereotypical."
"Reality often lacks imagination," I replied wryly.
Athena leaned closer and whispered. " . I heard there are apparently two stones that empower them and grants immortality even. They are called the Crimson stone and Ebony stone. I heard the ruler of Wallachia have one of them in his possession."
I took a step back. " Personal space, Athena."
She grinned and before I could react pulled my collar to place a gentle lingering kiss on my lips. She then winked. " Consider it a thank you for your patience. I would have thanked you more... in depth... if you agreed to stay the night with me. Such a pity."
Celeste was covering her face yet her fingers were wide enough to see clearly.
Hera had a knowing smile on her face. " Oh my, you are rather bold Athena."
Grayfia had widened her eyes slightly but returned to her usual stoic expression.
I sighed softly. " I really should stay alert near you."
Athena smirked. " Being kissed by a beautiful goddess is a blessing Kokabiel. Maybe you should enjoy it more rather than complaining."
I shook my head. " Because it feels like taking advantage of your feelings."
She gave me wry smile. " Sometimes, you really frustrate me. What a cruel fate, to love someone who can't return it. But I don't blame you. I'm happy with your friendship Kokabiel."
After that, we said our goodbyes , then made our way back to the chariot.
As we lifted off, I looked back at Camp Half-Blood. The campfires were burning bright, and I could hear distant laughter.
"They'll be alright," Grayfia said quietly. "It's a nice place."
"Yes," I agreed. "They will. For now."
Grayfia looked worried. " Have you already seen the future, Kokabiel sama?"
I nodded. " Yes. It's still far away, so they will have time to grow."
Grayfia smiled. " If you wish, I can post a few of our members to monitor the place."
I shook my head. " Not now. They might perceive it as negatively. Athena will keep an eye out for now."
Grayfia coughed. " Speaking of, are you two...."
I chuckled. " We are good friends. She does have romantic feelings for me and made it crystal clear, but I can't really pretend to love someone when I didn't understand the concept completely. "
I paused then continued. "You probably don't know, my current persona was developed after centuries of recovery and efforts after I lost my emotions. Even now, I can simulate most of it, but not fully natural. There's always a price for power."
Grayfia nodded and didn't say anything, just looking at the vast oceans beneath us.
We turned east toward Europe, toward whatever chaos was brewing in the Romanian countryside. But for now, I allowed myself a moment of satisfaction.
Today had been good. The camp would save lives. These children had hope for a better future.
Small victories, but victories nonetheless. And sometimes, that was enough.