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ali-bhutto-blog · 4 years

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Hidden treasure at the Sindh Archives

Feature published in The Friday Times.

A faded, brittle manuscript titled “Secret Department”, signed “H. Pottinger” and dated “3rd February, 1832” quotes Mir Murad Ali Talpur. “‘We know nothing’, said His Highness, ‘about accounts, or traffic, or writing. We hardly know that two and two make four. We all trust to Hindoos to bring us what we want from abroad, and our business is to fight amongst each other, which we do daily.’” Pottinger’s handwritten letter, addressed to the Governor-General’s secretary, details his day-to-day conversations with the ruler of Sindh eleven years prior to conquest. The letter goes on to provide an “Outline of a treaty sent to Meer Moorad Ali Khan on the 2nd of February, 1832”, under which the Indus was to be opened up for ‘trade’.

This is a sample of the treasure waiting to be dug up in one of Old Clifton’s tamarisked dead-ends. The Sindh Archives building lies tucked away behind Federation House and Park Towers, in Karachi. It contains correspondence and reports, the earliest of which date back to the 1830s, providing first-hand accounts of life in colonial Sindh – in the kind of vivid detail not found in history books. It also hosts a collection of old maps and rare books.

It is these very records that British historian David Cheesman accessed during his PhD research, which formed the basis for his work Landlord Power and Rural Indebtedness in Colonial Sind 1865-1901 (1997, Curzon). Recalling his experience of the archives, Dr Cheesman tells me “In 1976-77, when I carried out my PhD research, the records were stored in the Commissioner’s Record Office, which came under the Commissioner of Karachi. Access was at the Commissioner’s discretion. I had to convince him that I was only interested in people who were long dead. The records staff used to bring me my dusty bundles of old papers from the nineteenth century while they got on with their main business of filing modern records. Because the work of the Karachi administration was going on around me, it really felt as if I was in the old ‘Sind Commission’.”

“What I found especially fascinating” recalls Dr. Cheesman, “was that they still had stores of unsold official publications and so long as they had sufficient copies in the archive, they were very sensibly selling off the unwanted duplicates – at the original prices. So, for example, I got the 1933 guide to ‘Sind Government Records’ for 12 annas(i.e. Rs 0.75), the 1954 Bund Manual for Rs 5 and various British settlement reports. Selling them was certainly more cost effective than the alternative, which would have been to destroy them. When I came away clutching the 1918 settlement report for Thul, Kandhkot and Kashmore, for example, I really felt time had stood still!”

Old records of the commissioner in Sindh are filed under the following classifications: revenue, judicial, administrative, political and miscellaneous. In addition, there are the proceedings of the September 1929 session of the Legislative Assembly of India (the same assembly that had been bombed by Bhaghat Singh and BK Dutt six months prior), the proceedings of the Bombay Council from 1919 onwards and Bombay Government Gazettes from as early as 1850.

It is the records of the British – who left no stone un-surveyed – that largely make up the archives. However, according to historian Hamida Khuhro, “Prior to the British period, a lot of people in Sindh who engaged in scholarly pursuits valued their manuscripts. There are families that have a collection of handwritten manuscripts: written by their ancestors, or by someone who would write on their behalf. Therefore, there was a tradition of collecting old material.” The Sindh Archives have a 450-year-old Persian manuscript and more in Arabic.

While it is the archives that are the ‘treasure’ and not the building itself, one cannot help but wonder whether its architect anticipated it as a blank canvas on which you could build your historical imagination. Built in 1988, the complex has an unfinished feel to it. Perhaps the way Karachi felt in its early days. Or the way parts of the city still feel.

Architect Navaid Husain says, “It is a naive building. I was young when I designed it. At this age I am of the view that it should have been a historic building.” Yet, somehow, its appeal lies in the fact that it does not demand appreciation. The wide-open spaces and a lack of theme are filled up by images of the history you uncover in the archives. You associate the smell of the building and the old documents with the period under study.

Hamida Khuhro argues, “The building is very badly placed. It’s near the sea; it is humid and absolutely destructive of paper. It should be shifted to KDA or even further away. The weather is better there, believe it or not.”

The manuscripts are fumigated, chemically treated, bound and stored in acid-free boxes. The stack area is the only area I’ve seen in Karachi that is furnished with a functional (waterless) fire safety system. It is air-conditioned and the temperature and humidity are strictly monitored every three hours. Old newspapers, stored in another room, are undergoing preservation.

Akash Datwani, a qualified archivist and stack area in-charge, is highly efficient in facilitating researchers. He is the man to go to when carrying out research at the archives. Datwani has provided training in archival management to the Sindh Coastal Development Authority and to students of Karachi University’s MA program in Library and Information Sciences.

Sakhidad Kachelo, who worked at the Sindh Archives from 1979 until his retirement as an assistant director in January 2016, is a part and parcel of the relics found in the archives. “Part of the record used to be stored in Hyderabad,” he recalls, “and while it was there, a significant portion of it disappeared, or was stolen. The record was shifted to the current building in 1992. In 1993, Martin Moir, former deputy director of the India Office Library, gave us six months of training in record management.”

Three lanes down, the British Council library has re-opened its doors. The Sindh Archives – a ten-minute walk from there – may not have a cafe, but it does have the first edition of Joseph Davey Cunningham’s controversial A History of the Sikhs, published in 1849 by John Murray. A faded handwritten note in its front matter section reads “The rare first edition – suppressed upon publication on account of certain passages which gave offence.” On another shelf lies the first edition of Alexander Burnes’s Cabool, published in 1842 by John Murray. Its endpaper contains the signature of its first owner, dated May 1842. Nearby, is the first edition of Charles Masson’s Narrative of Various Journeys through Balochistan, Afghanistan, The Panjab, & Kalat, published in 1844 by Richard Bentley. There is also the first edition of the 7th Earl of Dunmore’sThe Pamirs, published by John Murray in 1893, with a silver Buddha embossed on its cover. Eye-catching titles such as, ‘The Indian Alps and How We Crossed Them by A Lady Pioneer’ and ‘A History of the Thugs’ cannot be missed.

However, the rare book collection – already in delicate condition – is located in a space where sunlight, heat, dust and humidity can wreak havoc on it. The rare books have been put into the same room as regular books, near large windows that are left open. It is evident that the adjustable open shelves on which the rare books are placed are not contributing to their preservation and are, if anything, damaging their covers. As the shelves are open from the sides, some books lying on the edge are leaning outwards.

When I first visited the Sindh Archives in 2007, the rare book collection was kept under lock and key in a windowless room specifically designated for it. A visitor needed permission to be able to view it. After Naeem Daudpota became the librarian in 2010, the collection was shifted to its current location. Daudpota, an MA in Library Information Science as well as History, explains, “It doesn’t make sense to keep rare books locked away and hidden from public viewing. On the contrary, people must be made aware of their existence and be encouraged to come and read them.” While such intentions are promising, accessibility must not come at the cost of preservation. The rare books must be shifted to an air-conditioned room, devoid of windows, where temperature and humidity are closely monitored – as is done in the stack area.

Referring to the personal collections in the library of the Sindh Archives, Hamida Khuhro opines, “I don’t think it is right that books in a library be organised under personal collections. They should be organised according to subject. Otherwise it is not helpful to researchers.”

The lone researchers that are seldom found in the corridors of the archives are either lawyers – compelled to visit for work – or foreign historians, or simply those driven by a carnivorous curiosity for an accurate picture of what was.

Colonel (retd) Hassan Imam, who has carried out research on his grandfather Wadero Ghulam Kadir Dayo, a landholder of Ratodero Taluka, tells me he is convinced that “Somebody has tampered with the Blue Book of Larkana District. The photocopy of the Blue Book preserved in the Sindh Archives is different from the one preserved in the Sindhology Institute, Jamshoro.” In my own research, I did notice that certain entries in the copy of the Blue Book in the Sindhology Institute were missing from the one in the Sindh Archives. According to Imam, “The pages covering the years 1901 to 1926 are missing. Furthermore, some entries that bear the signatures of different Collectors are all in the same handwriting. Whoever had an interest in destroying this record has deliberately done so.” According to Dr Cheesman however, “The handwriting may or may not be significant. Security was surprisingly lax in those days compared to now and, before photocopiers, even sensitive documents were frequently transcribed. You would probably be able to tell a lot from the style of writing – modern handwriting is very different.”

The past, encapsulated in the archives, is relevant, as are its missing pieces. Factual specifics, although limited, are more revealing than any vague, romanticised fable. Sensibilities and perspectives uncovered in old manuscripts relating to Sindh can provide history-lovers with a fresh perspective of the present: a new way of ‘seeing’ and understanding their current reality.

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5hfanfiction · 7 years

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Through The Mist (Ch.17)

Chapter XVII: We’re Fifth Harmony Now

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A/N: I’M SO SORRY THIS IS LATE. it’s been a long three months - blame school and life.

can you believe it’s been over an entire year since i first posted this fic - in March 2016? i’ve gotten so much love for this story and i can’t thank all of you enough. thank you for being so good to me. :)

oh and don’t question the chapter title lmao. it’s ironic now, i know, but just keep reading. it’ll make sense later. i tried to include more ot5, camren, and humor.

go ahead and read on, and don’t forget to comment ;) i love your reactions. i hope ya’ll enjoy!

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Previously on TTM,

Artemis summons the girls to inform them that she has a friend who may be of service to them on their quest and orders Thalia and Phoebe to escort them. The girls then prepare to leave the Hunters’ base and ride in Artemis’s silver chariot disguised as a common white van.

During the trip, a distraught Camila has dreams full of memories between her and Dinah in their former romantic relationship, as she finally pushes to move on in sake for a potential future with Lauren. At the same time, Dinah is telling Lauren of their “troublesome adventure” as she accidentally tells Lauren of their past.

When Camila wakes, she confronts an informed Lauren and confirms what Dinah told her. She assures Lauren that she is officially over the past and Lauren confesses that she is bisexual. The two girls exchange personal experiences and learn that their fears are linked with the other’s elemental power. After promising to help each other overcome their fears, Lauren falls asleep in Camila’s arms as they are driven to an unknown destination where Artemis’s helpful friend supposedly awaits their arrival.

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Camila sighed in satisfaction, her fingers languidly weaving through Lauren’s dark locks, her fingertips gently rubbing the girl’s scalp. Her eyes were shut as she basked in the serene moment, a small smile twitching on her lips at the sound of Lauren’s soft breathing.

The raven-haired girl was pressed into her side, her hand clutching onto Camila’s shirt as if her life depended on it. The small action made Camila’s heart flutter.

She had remained still in this position for about an hour, her hand continuing its ministrations in Lauren’s hair, content with the neutral expression on the girl’s face. Camila was rewarded with low, subconscious hums of approval and a tighter grip on her shirt.

The fire-wielder wished it could always be this calm and peaceful but she knew better, they all did. Demigods didn’t have the luxury of a normal life when they were occasionally shipped on quests and hunted down by monsters.

Camila found it ironic that most half-bloods longed for a piece of normalcy when that’s all mundanes complained about, claiming it was too boring or tiring.

What humans took for granted, demigods craved.

Funny how the world works; people always seem to get what they don’t actually need.

Pushing her thoughts aside, Camila tilted her head to observe the sleeping daughter of Poseidon. A small smile tugged on her lips at the alluring sight. Her russet eyes raked down from the girl’s thick brows to the slope of her nose and its silver ring piercing to her full, partially chapped lips and strong jaw.

Camila had to admit that Lauren was a work of art, and could honestly spend hours admiring her.

Right as the brunette was about to lean back and relax, the white van came to a halt, awakening the rest of the half-bloods. Groans of confusion filled the heated vehicle and Camila bit back a laugh at her friends’ disheveled appearances.

“Mhm, Camz?” Lauren mumbled sleepily, her eyes opening steadily, revealing brilliant green eyes that left Camila speechless.

Due to their close proximity, Camila could easily see a small ring of a dark amber circling around the black iris before fading into faint specks of gold and light blue within a sea of vibrant green. Camila had never seen another pair of eyes more entrancing than Lauren’s.

Gods, I could literally drown in her eyes and I wouldn’t be happier.

The pyrokinetic swallowed hard, a small blush evident on her cheeks. She managed to hum a response as she could not formulate words.

Lauren rubbed her eye with her free hand, still not noticing how she clung onto Camila. “Where are we?” she asked mindlessly, attempting to work past her slow, foggy brain.

As if expecting her question, Thalia unbuckled her seatbelt and craned her neck to face the quintet. She smirked at their drowsy expressions. “Olympus to half-bloods,” she teased playfully. “I hope you’re all awake and ready to go because we’re here.”

“And where’s here exactly?” Normani questioned tiredly, stifling a yawn. She attempted to blink the sleep out of her eyes, leaning heavily against the side of the van.

Next to her, Ally was quietly conversing with Phoebe, the healer handing her a silver thermos and a small gray bag full of emergency supplies.

A Cheshire-grin curved the lead Hunter’s mouth, her blue eyes electric. “Denver, Colorado. Or as I like to call it, Mile High City. This is your stop.”

“This is where the goddess lives?” Dinah inquired in a loud mumble, knowing that the city gained much snowfall during the winter. “Why couldn’t she choose a warmer place?”

The daughter of Zeus shrugged helplessly. “Beats me. The gods do as they please.” She unbuckled her seatbelt and opened the door. “Now, bundle up. You’re no use to Apollo with hypothermia.”

The five demigods began to prepare for their meeting with Artemis’s friend and the cold outside world.

Lauren flashed Camila a small smile and sat up, about to gather her belongings, when she finally acknowledged her strong grip on Camila’s shirt. Her fingers twitched and she could feel the firm abdominal muscles lying underneath. A sudden spike of warmth washed over her.

Her green eyes widened in surprise, a steady blush settling over her cheeks. She instantly released Camila with a rushed apology.

Mimicking her actions, Camila smiled fondly at the older girl and shook her head, amazed at how flustered Lauren appeared. “Laur, it’s fine. You were only doing it in your sleep. Besides,” her smile broadened, “it was kinda cute.”

The daughter of Poseidon ducked her head, holding her cheek in embarrassment. “Gods… It’s just, after our talk about our powers, I kinda assumed…”

The silence completed the thought: …that you were afraid of my touch…my abilities…

A small frown tugged at Camila’s lips and she leaned over and took Lauren’s free hand in her own. “We’re supposed to help each other get better through contact and familiarity. How can we get over our fears if we avoid each other?”

Lauren met her gaze and Camila bravely placed their joined hands over her heart. “I’m not afraid of your powers because I trust you. With you, I feel like I can go into the deepest abyss and never drown. You’re my strength, not my weakness. I hope I can be the same for you.”

With a soft smile, Lauren nodded in agreement, swallowing thickly at the strong, continuous heartbeat beneath her hand. “You can’t burn me because you ignite me, Camila. You have a sense of spirit and passion that I can’t help but be drawn to. You’ve taught me to not fear your warm, vibrant flames, and I can’t thank you enough. You’re my hero.”

Camila felt her pulse quicken at the term of endearment and she grinned at the sea spawn. Neither girl minded their joined hands at Camila’s chest. “Don’t forget, you still owe your hero a tour of New York City.”

The ends of Lauren’s eyes crinkled playfully, her front teeth on display in a small grin. “Now how could I forget that? I already know the perfect place to go first.”

Any place is perfect with you.

Both Cubans smiled at each other before they realized that they were in the middle of a van, surrounded by their friends, and they had to compose themselves for the meeting with their mysterious helper. Each girl grabbed their backpack and threw on their jacket, preparing themselves for the cold.

Camila made sure she had her trusty tool belt around her waist and that her custom torch-lighter sword was in the main pocket. Who knew the next time when the demigods would need some hot pockets or her handcrafted “no” button? It was better to be safe than sorry.

She plopped her black snapback on her head, wanting to guard her head from the wind and snow. Even a pyrokinetic was not completely immune to winter’s wrath.

The back doors of the van swung open, revealing a lively Thalia and a nonchalant Phoebe, both donning their silver winter coats. The wide entrance allowed the cool air to sneak in, making the demigods shiver.

The Lieutenant assisted the girls in hopping off the van but Camila was the one who helped Lauren, still wanting to make up for her past behavior with Thalia. She was determined to treat the girl like a princess because Lauren was deserving of such respect.

Snow flurries were gently falling from the clouded sky, melting once it touched their jackets as the temperature wasn’t as cold as the girls initially predicted. The air was thin and the occasional wind was biting to the skin but it was expected since it was winter. All the trees and grass were covered in a thin layer of white, making it difficult to distinguish between certain areas.

Camila tugged at her black sweatshirt and clung onto Lauren’s hand. The raven-haired girl smiled at the presence of the familiar warmth and squeezed the assuring hand.

The pyrokinetic observed her surroundings, noting how the traffic was light. She soon learned that the van was parked on the shoulder lane of East 11th Avenue with North High Street set a block ahead of them. A large sign was grounded a few feet ahead of them with the words ‘WELCOME TO CHEESMAN PARK’ engraved into it.

In the distance, Camila spotted a small parking lot that occupied a few cars. Any people she saw were bundled up and carrying playing equipment suitable for snow. Behind them lay a large fenced area, most likely being paid property.

This is where the goddess chose to be? In the middle of nowhere, in the cold?

Thalia stepped before the quintet, a bittersweet smile on her face. “Well, this is it. My final instructions were to give you tickets just in case Lady Artemis’s friend was feeling playful and ventured into the garden.” She held out five green, medium-sized tickets, each demigod taking one.

The sturdy ticket had the title 'DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS’ imprinted in the center with the date of December eighteenth. It was a one-day adult admission pass.

“Courtesy of Artemis, you can only use these tickets once,” Thalia explained. “It’s unlikely that you’re going to use them but it’s better that you have them on you in case anything happens. My Lady’s friend may be somewhat…unreliable, so we just wanted to cover any worse-case scenarios.”

She pointed behind them toward the bordered area Camila noticed earlier. “That’s the garden, conveniently placed next to the park. The hours are from nine to five and they have overpriced food inside, along with clean bathrooms.”

Phoebe crossed her arms over her chest, her dark eyes scrutinizing the girls. “Your guest will be located somewhere in Cheesman Park. I suggest one of the main pavilions, perhaps one made of marble since it is a goddess. If not, use the tickets and go to Botanic Gardens. Check the primary areas, like any pavilions. She should be in either of those places.”

The five friends nodded and tucked their tickets somewhere safe. Camila slipped her own into her tool belt.

The Lieutenant cleared her throat, running a hand through her short, uneven hair. “And that’s it. Phoebe and I have to return to the rest of the Hunters. Lady Artemis wants confirmation that we delivered you safely to your destination. May the gods be with you.”

Thalia and Phoebe exchanged hugs and farewells with the group. Neither party wanted to split up but this wasn’t the Hunters’ quest to complete. The five demigods had to do this on their own—with a little help along on the way.

Electric blue eyes lingered on Camila and the two half-bloods shared an understanding look. “Keep your eyes on the prize, Sparky,” Thalia heeded knowingly as she and Phoebe headed back to the van, ready to make the drive back to Salina, Kansas.

Camila chest expanded at the archer’s reference. “Will do,” she whispered to herself.

The van roared to life and with one last wave of goodbye, the Hunters left as quickly as they arrived in Denver. The only thing left behind were the tire marks in the soft layer of snow.

The group stood there in silence, attempting to wrap their heads around the objective and everything that happened a few hours prior. Everything was a rushed blur and it only made them more aware of the time left before the Solstice.

Flurries fell from the sky, landing on their coats before melting. Their breaths escaped in white smoke, filling the crisp air. The cold nipped their fingers and toes and cupped their faces when a sudden wind passed by. Compared to Artemis’s magically warm sanction, it was unexpectedly chilly in Denver.

Camila turned her head toward Dinah and felt the need to confirm their situation to Lauren. All of them deserved the closure. “China,” she called out, confusing the sea spawn. “Can you come here for a sec?”

The spoken request raised interest in Ally and Normani but they stood off close to the side, quietly observing them as outsiders. They couldn’t help but be nosey on a topic that surrounded half of their team.

The blonde complied and neared the duo, raising a questioning brow. Camila caught the pointed look Dinah sent the other Cuban. “Hey ya’ll, what’s up?”

Clearing her throat, Camila tightened her hold on Lauren’s hand. “I thought that it’d be a good idea to address the elephant in the room before we head off.”

Dinah blinked at her request and searched in Camila’s russet eyes, seeking confirmation. “The elephant in the room,” she repeated lowly, understanding its true meaning. She pursed her lips. “You sure?”

“Positive,” Camila affirmed boldly. “It’s time. It’s been over three months and we’re both over it. Let’s not have it complicate things in the upcoming future.”

A long sigh escaped the daughter of Ares and she nodded in agreement. She faced Lauren, highly aware that Ally and Normani were in earshot. She wanted everyone to hear her next words.

“So it’s true,” Dinah started, “Camila and I used to date but we broke up and we’re over it. We just wanted to let you all know.”

A tense silence settled over the group, each girl processing the confession. Lauren squeezed Camila’s hand in support, a small smile in place. Ally’s eyes were wide in surprise and Normani’s intent gaze darted between the former couple.

Oh gods, what if we messed up the timing?

Camila and Dinah shifted uneasily in the smothering atmosphere, worried over the half-bloods’ reactions. They hadn’t factored in any negative backlash and they suddenly feared it.

“That…explains a lot actually,” Ally voiced after what seemed like hours. Her warm brown eyes were crinkled with a smile. “I could just feel a deeper connection between ya’ll. There was always something off.”

Normani nodded. “Being a child of the goddess of love, I can’t believe I missed all the signs. I’m kinda mad that I didn’t put it together already.”

The shorter girl snorted and nudged Normani. “Come on, Mani. How are you even a child of Aphrodite?”

Slightly offended, Normani crossed her arms. “Girl, I can still Charmspeak your little sunshine butt to—”

“Wait,” Camila interrupted, her brows furrowing. The sudden change in conversation stumped her. “Are you guys okay with former us?” she questioned, pointing between herself and Dinah.

“Yeah,” Normani answered, turning away from Ally. “Why wouldn’t we be? What happened, happened, right? What’s in the past stays in the past.”

“We’re always going to support ya’ll,” Ally added. She smiled brightly at Camila and Dinah. “This doesn’t change anything, okay? Thank you for telling us.”

“As long as you two are cool, we’re cool,” Normani concluded with a casual grin.

Camila and Dinah exhaled in relief, comforted by the fact that their friends were supportive of their old secret. The last thing the best friends wanted was to damage the established group dynamic and make everything awkward as they finally moved on and commenced dating again, quite possibly within their own circle.

Lauren pressed her shoulder into Camila’s, her hand grip firm and assuring. From their proximity, she could smell the familiar detergent scent from Camila’s clean sweatshirt. “Now that that’s settled, let’s go find our mystery helper.”

A mutual understanding passed within the group as they commenced on their trek through the park. Without any objections, the quintet advanced passed the 'CHEESMAN PARK’ sign and a single green, metal trash barrel.

The soles of their sneakers left snowy footprints in the light veil of white coating the wide sidewalk. Tall, bare trees bordered the pathway, its branches thin and covered with snow, its appearance both beautiful and intimidating. The small park streetlamps glowed dimly in the dull sky, accompanying any visitors with its hopeful light, livening the colorless atmosphere.

The girls encountered a handful of mortals on the barren walkway, who were either mindlessly strolling or walking their dog. Most of the people were in the vast field, building snowmen, sledding, or attempting to create a game similar to snow tubing.

Children shouted and cheered with glee while their parents joined them or watched closely from polished wooden benches. Teens and other adults stayed to the side, taking pictures and talking or simply basking in the wintry landscape. It was the perfect weather to enjoy the gentle snowfall.

Camila lingered by the edge of the pathway, abruptly stopping to take in her surroundings. She was never one to rush things, always wanting to savor every little moment life had to offer her before the end of their quest.

Looking at the extensive plane of white, Camila was reminded of Lauren’s adventure in New York with her half-brother, and an idea flashed in her head, making her giddy.

Breathing deeply, she released Lauren’s hand to bend down and scoop up a large quantity of snow in both hands. For a moment, the cold mush burned her hands from the cold but her natural warm shield kicked in, neutralizing the sudden pain. She offered Lauren a crooked grin, letting the white substance melt in her heated palms, water slowly trickling off her fingertips.

“What do you think?” Camila subtly questioned with mischief sparkling in her eyes.

Lauren raised a brow in concentration and the water suddenly floated into the air, swirling in tight, manageable loops. “An interesting twist on a snowball fight,” Lauren commented quietly, catching onto Camila’s hinted message. She couldn’t help but grin slyly at the girl’s idea.

“Hey,” Dinah started, her voice low, “be careful with—”

The tall Polynesian was cut off by the splash of lukewarm water in her face. She spluttered in shock, blinking away the melted snowball as the rest ran down her neck. Her brown eyes hardened at the snickering daughter of Poseidon. “Oh, so you think that’s funny, huh? Bring it on, Jauregui.”

Lauren turned to Camila for help but the brunette shrugged indifferently. “You got yourself into that one, Lo. I didn’t tell you to spray Dinah. You deal with her.”

“Traitor,” Lauren muttered before she retreated into the field of snow with an angry Dinah hot on her heels.

“Come back here, Lauser!” the blonde shouted, startling some of the younger children. As the oldest child in her family, Dinah was ready to seize her revenge on the raven-haired girl.

The two demigods then began throwing snowballs at each other, using the mortals and the trees as shields. They were equally matched as Lauren had no primary source of water to use against Dinah, and no swordplay was involved. It was all a matter of luck.

Ally and Normani were cackling at the scene, each girl placing their bet on who might win—Ally betting five drachma on Lauren, Normani betting five on Dinah.

Present bystanders paused to watch the snow brawl in curiousity. Anyone who protested the fact that their body was being used as a barrier was silenced by a soft snowball to the chest or back, causing them to move away.

Camila just stood there, shaking her head at the playful fight. Running a hand through her hair, she noted how neither girl could get the upperhand. The fire in her chest flickered, aching to put a stop to the derailing dispute.

She started advancing toward the two half-bloods to assist Lauren when a random girl appeared in front of her. Camila halted, her brows furrowing in confusion. Her hands balled into loose fists due to her heightening agitation.

Gods, what now?

The girl was around her age, maybe older, and a few inches taller. She had chestnut blonde hair and pale blue eyes. Her skin was fair with a light tan, concealed by a navy coat. The girl stepped closer, flashing her a pearly white smile, accompanied by rosy cheeks from the cold.

With little interest, Camila acknowledged that the girl was attractive but her type of girl included one with raven locks and thick, dark brows with faint freckles scattered across her nose and the most beautiful pair of green eyes she had ever seen.

“Hi,” the girl greeted chirpily, her eyes roaming Camila’s lean body with piqued interest. “I couldn’t help but notice that you looked a little lost.”

Camila forced a smile, wanting nothing more than to leave. She had already learned her lesson about pointlessly flirting with other girls, even if it came natural to her. It was useless and a clear waste of time when she had the perfect girl just a few feet away, engaged in a snowball fight with her best friend—a fight she was about to end before this girl showed up out of nowhere.

“Uh, well, my friends and I are new to Denver,” Camila explained.

An obviously fake giggle escaped the lighter brunette. “Oh, that explains it. You didn’t look like you were around here, seeing that you’re just in a fitted sweatshirt.” She blatantly checked the Latina out, the action not impressing the pyrokinetic.

“I don’t really feel the cold,” Camila commented lamely, absentmindedly rubbing her forearm.

“All that muscle must keep you warm.” The girl tried to feel Camila’s bicep but was denied with a simple sidestep. She played it off with a cough. “You work out?”

“Yes, I work out,” Camila answered impassively. “And yeah, we’re just visiting the area.”

The girl’s eyes lit up in a way that unsettled Camila. “Ooh, I love visitors! Do you need help finding a specific location?”

Camila refrained from raising a brow at the girl’s vague intentions but decided to seek her offered help instead. “Um, is there like a big marble pavilion around here? Someone told us to meet up there but we don’t know where to go.”

The girl nodded and bit her lip, which had no effect on Camila. “Keep going up this pathway until you reach an intersection. Take a left when you’re there and it should be straight ahead. There should be some fountains in front of it.”

The pyrokinetic mentally jotted the information down and smiled gratefully at the stranger. She was glad to now have a sense of direction in the spacious park. “Wow, thank you so much. I really appreciate it.”

“Oh, it’s no big deal,” the girl admitted, brushing it off. Her eyes darted from Camila’s eyes to her lips, taking her own between her teeth. “But,” she continued, her tone dropping, “You could thank me in another way.”

Camila’s throat bobbed in worry, her body becoming jittery with the need to leave. Her hands heated up in uncertainty.

Oh gods, did I accidentally lead her on? Was the “so much"excessive?

The blue-eyed girl stalked closer, invading Camila’s personal space. Her eyes had gotten noticeably darker and her mouth was curved into a smug smirk. She honestly thought she had Camila under her trance. "How about you give me your number and you can properly thank me later tonight?” she husked.

Camila’s eyes widened at the implied request. She knew the girl was going to make a move on her but she didn’t expect it to be so blunt and vulgar. The question had left her speechless, completely throwing her off guard.

Before she could utter a word, someone suddenly joined them, linking their hand with Camila’s. The familiar presence snapped Camila’s frozen body to life and she smiled at the person beside her.

Lauren stood by her side, her green eyes narrowed suspiciously at the random girl. “Camz, who is this?” she inquired in a sharp tone.

The two taller girls sized each other up and the Denverite crossed her arms over her chest with a slight frown. Lauren nearly laughed at how the girl pathetically attempted to look more intimidating when she was the daughter of Poseidon and an excellent swordsman, who would have no struggle with the lighter brunette if things came down to a physical confrontation.

But Lauren knew that Camila would inevitably interfere, unwilling to let her to get harmed in any situation, even if the odds were in her favor. Though donning the necessary muscle, the younger brunette was more likely to use her head over brute strength. That mindset only faltered when it came down to protecting Lauren. Camila’s underlying feelings got the better of her sometimes.

Camila rubbed the back of her neck tiredly. “She was just giving me directions to the pavilion. I was just about to leave and find you.”

The other girl’s frown deepened in protest. “But I asked you for your—”

Lauren’s eyes flashed dangerously, her grip on Camila’s hand tightening. “For her what?”

The lighter brunette scoffed at how she was rudely interrupted. “It’s none of your business. This is between me and her.”

Oh honey, you couldn’t be more wrong.

Just as Lauren was about to spit out a multitude of insults, Camila pulled on their joined hands, leaning into the older Latina’s ear. “Lauren, please, she’s not worth it,” she mumbled, keeping her calm facade. “C'mon, let’s go get the girls and go to the pavilion.”

Lauren let out a shaky exhale and nodded, comforted by Camila’s steady voice and firm grip. Her eyes were still violent storms as she glared at the other girl. “Oh, and it’s too bad because I just made it my business,” Lauren retorted. “No one messes with my Camz.”

Camila ignored the way her stomach flopped at Lauren’s bold claim but couldn’t fight back the large smile that spilled onto her face. “Alright, come on, you,” she teased, dragging Lauren back to the other girls.

She was not at all bothered by the abrupt jealous side Lauren displayed because of the random girl. A little possessiveness was usually healthy and only meant that the taller girl cared.

“Wait!” the lighter brunette argued, her feet planted to the ground. “I didn’t get your number!”

“Don’t have one!” Camila replied loudly, sending Lauren a fond grin, who in turn, rolled her eyes. Ironically, it was the truth because they were half-bloods with restricted access to modern technology. “Thanks for the help though!”

The duo cackled at the lighter brunette’s annoyed “hmph” and dramatic storming off, joining her distanced pack of friends who looked as snobby as she was.

Camila had never been so relieved to ditch a random pretty girl. “Gods, she was getting on my last nerve.”

Lauren snorted, bumping her shoulder with Camila’s. “Well, at least you seemed to have it under control. I, on the other hand…”

“Lo, you looked like you wanted to murder her on the spot,” she jested, secretly finding a jealous Lauren cute and hot.

“Hey, you said it yourself, she was annoying.” Lauren paused, catching a glimpse of their fellow demigods up ahead. “What’d she say anyway?”

Camila pinched the bridge of her nose once she recalled the moment. She wanted to burn the memories from her mind. “As a plus for helping me, she wanted my number so we could hook-up later. Gods, I made it so obvious that I wasn’t interested but some people just can’t take a hint.”

Lauren’s face hardened at the thought of another girl provocatively hitting on Camila. The mere notion of it didn’t sit well with her. She had come so close to lashing out, the only thing keeping her at bay being Camila’s warm touch and wise words. “Well, I’m just glad we told her to fuck off.”

“Lauren, I’m a gentlewoman. I’d never tell a girl to fuck off.”

Unless she was really messing with you, then it’s a whole other story.

“Well, maybe you’re too good for your own good, and she clearly deserved it.”

Lauren occasionally worried that Camila cared too much for others and not enough for herself, as heroic and selfless as it was. Being a demigod, that quality only increased one’s risk of premature mortality. In the end, the flames would become too intense, even for the daughter of Poseidon to extinguish, and it would consume the pyrokinetic.

Sometimes, a person’s downfall was their greatest virtue, or as demigods liked to call it, their fatal flaw. A wise goddess once said that the most dangerous flaws were those that were good in moderation.

Finally reuniting with their friends, Camila shrugged, adjusting her bag. “What’s done is done, Lo.” Her russet eyes flitted from Lauren to a soggy-looking Dinah and she stifled a snort. “Uh, Dinah—”

The blonde raised a steady hand, her lips pressed into a thin line. Her jacket was darker due to the collected moisture of an onslaught of snowballs, and her hair was unkempt and damp. It was an accurate representation of a defeated player. “Don’t even ask. Somehow, Kelp Head beat me in the snowball fight.”

In the corner of Camila’s eye, she saw Ally’s grin broaden and Normani’s shoulders slump in disappointment. The brunette bit her lip at the drachma exchange between them, raising a brow at the golden coins Normani placed in Ally’s hand.

They would bet on this… Also, why didn’t I?

Lauren shifted on her feet, wearing a small smile at the aftereffects of their little snow fight. “Yeah, it just happened.”

Dinah blinked at the girl’s reclusive state and began to grin. “You know, I couldn’t help but notice that you got a lot fiercer after you noticed that girl talking to Camila,” she drawled, causing Camila to raise a brow. “I wonder what gave you that extra strength—”

“Okay,” Lauren interrupted, a small blush evident on her cheeks. She refused to meet Camila’s questioning gaze. “Don’t be a sore loser because I easily kicked your ass in a snowball fight.”

“Hand me an actual weapon, Jauregui, and then we’ll talk.”

Camila ran a hand through her hair in slight exasperation. “Guys, now is not the time. We finally know where the pavilion is.”

Ally immediately perked up at the news, eager to have a lead. “Well then, what are we waiting for? It’s the eighteenth and we have until the twenty-first to be San Francisco. Lead the way!”

She skipped ahead, making the other girls chuckle. The oldest demigod was such a child at heart and it was delightful to witness it. In times of panic and craze, it was good to remain pure of heart. Someone had to be the beacon of light in a dark, long tunnel.

The four girls quickly followed in suit, learning that Ally was quite capable of moving far distances with her short legs. Camila assumed it was due to her many years at camp, because how else could someone with such short legs move that fast.

While Ally led the way, Normani and Lauren were in front of the youngest half-bloods, discussing of possible ways to approach the mystery immortal. The daughter of Apollo pitched in from time to time while keeping an eye out for the marble pavilion.

Gods, how big is this damn park? Camila pondered absentmindedly as five minutes passed.

Camila and Dinah were busy staring at their surroundings and commenting on random occurrences to voice their thoughts to the other girls. The duo even created a game where they guessed what people were thinking from just their facial expressions, which then developed into making up a person’s backstory with a comedic twist.

The makeshift game caught the attention of the older girls, prompting light grins on their faces. Lauren fought to hold back giggles at Camila’s absurdly vivid descriptions of people’s thoughts and backstories while they slipped on ice and tried to play it off.

While Camila had a couple witty remarks, Dinah was in the lead by a few points. Before she could crush Camila with the ultimate comeback, the Polynesian captured a glimpse of a Caucasian male in camo pants and a gray hoodie, the distinct clothing style triggering a memory.

“Oh my gods, Mila, do you remember that stupid military chant we made up at Denton? The one we almost got expelled for?” Dinah suddenly spouted, her face lit up with joy.

It only took a second for the memory to click, making Camila’s eyes go wide. In her opinion, it was one of her proudest moments. “Holy shit, that was the best thing I’ve ever come up with.”

The curt song was made by Camila with Dinah’s occasional input in the span of ten minutes. They were to recite it in front of their sophomore class but couldn’t finish it because as soon as Camila uttered the first line, they were dragged to the administrator’s office and had lunch duty for two weeks. Camila still couldn’t remember the class the assignment was for.

She had forgotten how clever and snarky she was back at Denton Academy. From sneaking around to helping prank the entire senior class as a freshman, Camila was the loose definition of an undisciplined child. The suffocating school only made her creativity spike to great heights, fueling her riddled thoughts.

After all, a strict and oppressive environment only led to witty and sarcastic kids who questioned and broke every unjust rule set before them.

The loud confession snatched Normani’s attention as she slowed her pace, now only slightly ahead of the best friends. “Uh, what was it?” she asked innocently, her head turning to glance at the two girls. She was curious of their past in a boarding academy.

Camila and Dinah exchanged thoughtful looks before donning similar smirks, their eyes sparkling with rekindled mischief.

Normani was going to regret her simple question.

Clearing her throat, Camila cupped her mouth and inhaled deeply, creating a curt tension in the calm atmosphere before her blaring voice tore through the silence.

“Tits and ass are really great!” the brunette chanted in a military style, grinning maniacally at the bewildered stares she earned from random bystanders.

“Tits and ass are really great!” Dinah repeated with the same enthusiasm and hand motion, her eyes crinkled while on the brink of laughter.

Camila continued with, “But it sucks when you both menstruate!”

“But it sucks when you both menstruate!” Dinah echoed, taking a step forward. Turning to the Latina, she concluded the song with erratic pointing gestures toward her friend. “Fee-fi-fo-fum, Mila’s gay as hell, son!”

The two best friends burst into laughter after the improvisational chant, proud of how well they delivered it on the spot. Ally just shook her head in the front, giggling softly at how silly the girls were. Lauren held her stomach from laughter, clearly enjoying the impromptu moment.

Normani whipped her head toward the girls with her brows raised. She was trying to decipher the meaning of the song and how it related to the two former girlfriends.

“Wait, so are you both gay?” she queried for clarification, knowing that she didn’t ask about their sexualities when they admitted their past romantic relationship before. She couldn’t just assume that they were both gay until she asked.

Dinah shook her head, jutting a finger towards Camila. “Nah, she’s the gay one. I’m poly.”

Normani frowned, followed by the tilt of her head. “Polynesian?”

Camila sniggered, remembering her old pun, as Dinah pursed her lips with patience. “Yes and no. I’m a polysexual Polynesian.”

“Poly-squared,” the pyrokinetic muttered before receiving a punch to the shoulder.

Normani blinked in surprise before smiling warmly at the girls. She loved it when people openly accepted the gender of the person they were attracted to. “Aw, that’s so great. I’m pansexual.”

Dinah’s jaw went slack at the confession, her eyes roaming the dark-skinned goddess before her in a brand new light. Her palms began to perspire lightly at the inviting thought. “You’re pan?”

Nomani raised a brow, a small smirk twisting her full lips. “Love has no gender, baby,” she stated with ease before strolling back to the daughter of Poseidon, leaving the two best friends in shock.

Lauren simply chuckled at their expressions, knowing how sensually playful Normani could be. The girl was incredibly charming and flirtatious, even without the use of her Charmspeak powers. The only other person she knew who might be a better flirt was Camila, with her bright brown eyes and an infectious crooked grin.

It was no surprise that Lauren harbored a small crush on Normani when she first met her, but it quickly wore off as they became best friends. When Camila barged into Lauren’s life, she knew it was impossible not to fall for the caring, goofy Latina.

Life had a knack of messing with her love life. If she only knew what Camila had went through with her own encounter with the goddess of love, then she wouldn’t think anything else.

In the front, Ally had heard the entire conversation and was immensely proud her friends and how open they were about their romantic-slash-sexual preferences.

However, she soon realized that she was the only one who was straight among the group. “Ya’ll, I feel left out now,” she playfully uttered with a soft pout.

“Lauren, Dinah, and Normani still like guys though,” Camila pointed out while fixing her snapback. “I’m all about the ladies,” she added as an afterthought with her signature heart-throb grin. Lauren could already feel her heart flutter.

“It’s not the same,” Ally mumbled, intentionally dragging her feet to be overdramatic. As a daughter of Apollo, she was a great actress, even though she struggled to hide her smile at the looks she received from her friends.

The other four girls laughed at her simulated depressed state and continued forward. In the distance, they could make out the a row of fountains with the outline of a large marble pavilion behind it. Excitement began to fester within the girls as they finally approached their destination.

Surprisingly, this location was the most congested area of the park. People were taking pictures of the impressive pavilion and wandering around in small groups. Light conversations filled the chilly air, livening the colorless surroundings. Even families were present, some with baby strollers and senior citizens with canes.

Somehow, the water fountains were functional as some kids messed with the icy water, spraying it toward others. Camila supposed that it wasn’t cold enough for the fountains to completely freeze over. Lauren’s gaze unintentionally lingered on the water source.

The demigods halted at the footsteps of the pavilion, trying to come up with a solid game plan because they couldn’t just barge through and start looking around like maniacs while in public.

Mortals continued to brush passed them as if they were in a crowded city. Unlike them, the girls were more focused on searching for a mysterious goddess than the frosty garden fountains.

Camila’s brows furrowed in concentration. “If I were a goddess awaiting guests in the main section of a park, where would I be?”

Lauren leaned into her. “We could always check the pavilion but we have to be subtle as to not draw attention to ourselves,” she suggested, watching Ally carefully inspect the white building.

“True, but immortal beings always attract unwanted attention so we have to be careful, especially with this many people around in such an open space.” With a small grin, Camila added, “Wouldn’t want to be on the news again, now would we?”

Lauren snickered at the reference to the bus incident including the clique of empousai and easily agreed, not wanting to be mistaken for an accomplice to murder again.

In the corner of Camila’s eye, she spotted a huddled trio of late middle-aged Hispanic women not too far from where they were standing. She stiffened when their intent gazes locked onto her and Lauren.

Oh, not again. Please don’t be monsters.

She gripped Lauren’s hand and subconsciously took a step toward the women to listen to their rampant conversation. Somehow, she was able to catch onto some of what they were saying to each other about them.

“Ay, mirenlas. Son hispanas pero me imagino que no hablan español. Esta nueva generación está renunciando sus raíces porque son huevones. Todo les pesan y solo pasan en esos pinches teléfonos. ¡Se están convirtiendo en gringas pero hasta los gringos pueden hablar espanol!”

[Translation: Ay, look at them. They’re Hispanic but I bet that they don’t speak Spanish. This new generation is giving up on its roots because they’re all lazy nowadays. Everything is a burden to them and they’re always on their fucking phones. They’re turning into white girls but even white people know how to speak Spanish now!]

Camila’s expression darkened and Lauren’s jaw grounded in irritation. They both understood what it was like to be the new Hispanic generation in America as the older generation patronized and belittled them for not knowing the smallest cultural custom when they couldn’t even work their own phone without help.

If a Spanish-speaking Latina is what they want, oh, they’re about to get a real fiery one.

The other three half-bloods could feel the shift in the group dynamic, silently encouraging the pair to go off on the Hispanic women, knowing a bit of Spanish themselves to see why their conversation bothered the two Cubans.

“Go get'em,” Ally coaxed with a wicked smile.

Without a second thought, Camila guided a furious Lauren to the trio of condescending women and smiled sweetly at their startled expressions. Camila faked a friendly wave, her cold eyes roaming across their anxious faces. She couldn’t be less afraid of these disrespecting women when she’s faced fearsome monsters and survived near-death experiences.

“Hablamos español,” Camila and Lauren claimed simultaneously, raising a brow at the now guilt-ridden women.

[Translation: We speak Spanish.]

“Y no podía dejar de escuchar toda la mierda que decían,” Lauren added spitefully with a smile. She stepped forward, obviously intimidating the women. “La próxima vez, dinos esto a nuestras caras en vez de hablar sin saber nada.”

[Translation: (1) And I couldn’t help but hear all the shit you were saying. (2) Next time, tell this to our faces instead of talking without knowing anything.]

Camila smiled fondly at a pissed Lauren before redirecting her attention to the three Hispanic women, who were too overdressed for thirty degree weather. Their eyes were wide, faces flushed with anger and embarrassment. They clearly weren’t expecting to be told off and Camila chest expanded with pride at what Lauren said before.

“Que tengan un buen dia, señoras,” she concluded sarcastically, dragging Lauren away before she could do anything she’d later regret.

[Translation: Have a good day, ladies.]

The three women were left speechless, mouths agape in shock. In the distance, you could hear Dinah cackling loudly in the background as Ally and Normani shared a high-five, applauding their friends.

“The nerve of those women,” the raven-haired girl grumbled as they walked back to the group. “They love to talk about shit that has nothing to do with them but get offended when someone talks bad about them.”

“Hey,” Camila soothed, stroking the back of Lauren’s hand with her thumb, “Forget about them. Why should we care about what they think when we’re trying to save the world?” She pulled her close. “Get your head back in the game, Jauregui.”

As much as the sight of an angry Lauren was appealing, Camila knew it was wise to get the girl in a clear and focused mindset while on their quest. It was no good to impair her judgement and reasoning because of some hypocritical women who regularly stuck their noses into other people’s business.

With a huff, Lauren dropped the subject, her body’s rigidness and facial anger lines dissipating. “Better?” she inquired, flashing her big green eyes at her.

“Much better, babe,” Camila confirmed with a soft smile, the term rolling off her tongue without her permission.

Before the daughter of Poseidon could question it, the duo reunited with the rest of the group, who had figured out a plan to their small dilemma of a wild goose chase with a mystery goddess.

“Let’s walk inside the pavilion and head to the back,” Ally advised. “Most visitors only care about what the front looks like, not the back. It’s worth a try.”

The demigods exchanged looks and unanimously agreed to the suggestion. The quintet began moving up the marble stairway in a tight formation with Ally in the front, followed by Normani and Dinah with Camila and Lauren taking up the rear.

Camila’s hand was tightly grasping Lauren’s as her other hand hovered over the main pocket of her tool belt, which contained her custom sword. She knew better than to fall for another ambush attack, especially after almost dying because of one.

No mortals gave them second glances as they proceeded to the open entrance of the white building. A group of slow teenage girls was nothing alarming to them.

The half-bloods drew in a deep breath at the same time as they set foot in the main infrastructure. Each footstep on the marble floor echoed in Camila’s ears as they delved deeper into the building.

It was a simple pavilion, with its only distinguishable quality being its larger size. The walls were plain and smooth, not holding a single art piece. Few people ventured inside as it appeared better from the outside than from within.

Toward the the farthest end stood a lone, slender young woman, who donned a black trench coat. Her long honey blonde hair cascaded down her back in perfect waves, complimenting her fair skin. She was looking down at something in her hands, completely unaware of the steadily approaching demigods.

A warm, inviting aura radiated off her and Camila felt a familiar tug in her gut. Her hands heated up momentarily and she quickly subdued any abnormal heat but it was too late.

The woman’s head turned to their direction and Camila faltered at the sight of those intense baby blue eyes staring back at her. She was struck by her innocent and human-like beauty. The woman appeared to be nineteen, or at least, that’s what it looked like what she was aiming for.

Unexpectedly, the young woman smiled kindly and motioned them forward. With a mind of their own, the girls’ feet moved with their own accord until they were a few feet away from the mysterious blonde.

Since the stranger was completely facing them, Camila could finally get a good look at what they were wearing. Her eyes widened at the sight of a flowy white top with a gold line embroidered across the middle and denim shorts. Greek gladiator sandals adorned the woman’s feet.

The blonde stranger smiled sheepishly at Camila’s perplexed stare before recomposing herself. “I don’t get cold,” she commented, wiggling her toes in her leather sandals. Her soft, soothing voice surprised Camila.

Just as Camila was about to question the mysterious woman, the blonde gazed deep into her eyes, those intense baby blue orbs stifling any outgoing words. Camila’s entire body froze and she felt like someone was digging inside her soul. Her chest tightened as her grip on Lauren’s hand slackened to the point where she was barely holding on.

The woman’s eyes shone with delight, a small smile curling her pink lips. “You don’t need water to feel like you’re drowning, do you?” she queried, tilting her head to the side. Her bright eyes narrowed. “A single glance was all it took.”

Those words shocked Camila because the only people who knew about her fear of drowning were Lauren and Dinah, and she was the only person who knew how Lauren affected her since day one.

A single glance was all it took.

It was the frightening truth that Camila was unwilling to face.

Dinah’s brows knitted together at how unusually quiet and still Camila was and fit the puzzle pieces together in her mind. “You summoned us,” she declared, breaking the spell between the woman and Camila, who felt like she could finally breathe. “You’re the friend Artemis was talking about.”

The immortal blinked and smiled proudly at her. “Well done, daughter of Ares.”

Lauren clutched at Camila’s slipping hand, holding her close. “Who are you?”

“I am Harmonia, goddess of peace, harmony, and concord,” the blonde announced, her line of vision straying on the recovering daughter of Hephaestus. “I apologize for invading your privacy. Your aura piqued my interest with its fiery brilliance.”

Camila nodded and rubbed the back of her neck, managing to understand the immortal’s curiosity. The blonde only looked a few years older them, making it easier to sympathize with her. “Let me guess, never met a demigod who could harness fire?”

The goddess smiled widely. “Indeed. You’re quite the talk back on Olympus, seeing as it’s been hundreds of years since the last pyrokinetic, which was in the 1600s.”

All of the girls cringed at the recollection of Thomas Faynor and his burning bakery. They did not want a reencounter of a deserted bakery bursting into violent flames. Lauren stood impossibly close to the brunette, who stared blankly at the goddess.

Camila pursed her lips. “Well, I’m honored, I guess. I’ll try not to burn any major cities down,” she continued humorlessly.

“Oh, you’ll be fine. You seem to be in control of your power. In fact, you might be the strongest pyrokinetic the gods have ever seen,” the goddess admitted nonchalantly. “That is the only worry we have about you.”

Camila raised an eyebrow in surprise but said nothing, balling her free hand into a loose fist.

Harmonia’s perfectly arched brow crinkled with an abrupt thought. “You passed Pennsylvania without visiting my statue,” she claimed, feeling slightly insulted by their ignorance.

“Um, we’re sorry?” Normani apologized, not wanting to upset the goddess. She didn’t even know if her Charmspeak could work on immortals. “We were in a hurry.”

“We were trying to complete a quest,” Ally added, “which Lady Artemis said you could help us with.” The half-bloods awaited a positive response.

Harmonia’s face brightened. “Oh, yes, the quest. Yes, I have information about the prophecy you so wish to decipher.” She stepped toward them with a small grin. For a moment, she looked like a regular college girl with her innocent excitement. “But first, I must name you.”

Dinah blinked twice. “Name us?”

“To not show favoritism and to have someone to represent me to the big shots,” Harmonia clarified, referencing the Olympians. She tapped her chin as she brainstormed for ideas. “There’s five of you… And from what I’ve seen, you all work in sync… In harmony… My name is Harmonia…”

Her blue eyes momentarily glowed with immense joy. “Fifth Harmony! I will now refer to you as Fifth Harmony. It suits your group perfectly.”

The demigods shared a certain look but thought better than to argue with the goddess, regardless if she was a minor one. And neither wanted to admit it but that name had a nice ring to it. They could manage it if they had to.

“So, we’re Fifth Harmony now?”

Harmonia clapped her hands with a confident smile. “Precisely. You, Fifth Harmony, will strive to maintain the peace in the world. I have great faith that you will have great success in doing so. Oh, I can already see…”

It was obvious she was going to continue going off topic until someone interrupted her. Consulting with a being with no firm grasp of time was a difficult challenge. They were only fortunate that this immortal seemed to be forgiving and laidback.

Camila rubbed her right temple, knowing that they were wasting precious time. Since neither of her friends spoke up, she thought she might as well say something. The completion of quest depended on it.

“Look, I don’t want to sound disrespectful,” Camila interrupted, certainly catching the blonde’s attention, “The name is great and all, but we’re only here because you know what this 'chaos’ is. Can we get to that please? We’re on a time limit to save the world.”

The other demigods sucked in an anxious breath as they anticipated the immortal to lash out in anger and probably vaporize Camila, but only received a bitter smile and dull blue eyes in return.

Harmonia’s expression no longer appeared joyful and at peace. Her body composure was forced and rigid. She lost her radiant aura and she suddenly looked older than her early twenties. Even her hair seemed to lose its distinct silky shine. She looked as if she was carrying a heavy, overbearing burden and was dying to just let go.

To some level, Camila could relate, although only through a dream. She couldn’t even begin to fathom what it would be like in reality.

It was a peculiar sight to see an immortal age and appear vulnerable. The mere concept frightened the half-bloods.

“You aren’t going against the primordial deity Chaos, if that’s what you’re thinking,” Harmonia stated quietly. “If that were the case, the gods would have taken care of that situation themselves.”

Ally frowned, her pulse picking up speed due to the ugly, hurtful emotions of anger and resentment. “The gods let the Titans come back,” she remarked sharply, her voice growing thick.

She swallowed hard at the unforgettable memories that now replayed in her mind. Ally clenched her eyes shut at the gut-wrenching sounds of campers crying out in pain, the nauseating smell of mortal blood and monsters’ rancid mouths, and several dead bodies lying on the cold ground, either friend or foe.

Her body jerked at the distinct memory of the haunting gold eyes of Kronos in Luke’s body from far away, still managing to strike fear into her young heart.

Tears threatened to form in the corners of Ally’s eyes as her dull fingernails dug into her palms. Even though she was sixteen at the time, the memories occasionally tormented her, reminding her of what being a demigod was truly like. “I lost so many good friends because the gods didn’t intervene then.”

Dinah stepped forward and wrapped an arm around Ally who accepted the embrace, Normani soon following in suit. No one wanted to see Ally suffer from past traumatic experiences.

A dark shadow loomed over Harmonia’s face. She flinched at the curt reference to the violent war that occurred four years ago. The mere mention of factual discord seemed to drain her.

“I… We, the gods, and the Titans are not on the same playing field as primordial deities,” she stressed. “That is a completely different matter and would be handled in a different, less barbaric, manner.”

“Then who are we facing?” Ally demanded, startling both Normani and Dinah. She no longer donned her usual sweet and polite facade. Ally was tired of compromising and giving in. She wanted answers and she wouldn’t stop fighting until she achieved them.

Harmonia’s pale lips quivered into a bitter smile. Her blue eyes were cloudy, thundering skies, accompanied by light bags underneath them, but they harbored a familiar passion that Camila’s only seen in Dinah, Normani, and the goddess of love.

Gears started to turn in the brunette’s mind and her eyes widened at the realization of Harmonia’s unspoken parentage.

“You’re going against my aunt, Eris, and she’s looking for demigod blood.” Harmonia weakly jutted a thumb toward the pyrokinetic. “Preferably Camila’s.”

–––

A/N: and that’s all for this chapter. it’s roughly 9.0k but a lot happens in it. i’m actually quite proud of this chapter. i hope ya’ll enjoyed it! what did you like most?

oh and for some reason, it got dark so oops. hope the comedy and the camren satisfied you. i’ll try to update asap next time because school is almost over but i have tests first. :/

since it’s WAY past the one year anniversary of Through The Mist and it’s the seventeenth chapter, which correlates with my age, i’ll just tell ya’ll a little about myself because i honestly don’t have anything better to do.

- i’m a junior in high school - please kill me - i currently play rugby - i’m a proud bi latina - i’m obsessed with superheroes, females especially - i’m a firm believer that camila tops - i love dogs and i would die for them

oh, and happy spring break to those who are on it (like me for instance)! be safe out there, kiddos. till next time!

tumblr/wattpad: hellyeahfeels

#UPDATE #AU #slash #camren #action adventure #humour #scifi supernatural fantasy #submission #Through The Mist

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