Chp 9: Apologies

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The younger campers grinned at her with newfound respect. This speech wasn't for them. It was for the rotunda of leaders that looked at her, faces scorned with disgust, eyes narrow with disbelief. It was for the sea of older campers looking down, disappointed. It was for everyone she let down. It was for her tarnished reputation. It was for a blank page to turn to.

But no page would be blank after this. No page would be a fresh start after the chapter of inky black before it. But she had to try.

Reyna stepped up to the pedestal and apologised. She apologised for her outbursts, for her unnecessary fighting, for her lack of leadership, lack of professionalism. She talked till her throat threatened to close with emotion. "And as punishment, I will be cleaning the stables for a month."

This statement was greeted with a quiet snickering: the proud Reyna cleaning manure? Annabeth ignored the laughter and looked up at Reyna, trying to see if her speech would continue. Would Reyna say her name?

Reyna stepped off the pedestal and locked eyes with every camper. Octavian, her oldest friend. Jason, her rock. Annabeth. Annabeth looked at her questioningly, but Reyna would not punish her. Too much damage had been done today. Percy. No man was worth the joy these beautiful faces brought her. 

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