Athanasios Perseus Apollyon - The Forgotten Tide

Chapter 19: The Arrival of Orion and Its Fallout

Percy's POV

Orion's arrival on the scene brought an unsettling shift in the dynamics of the Hunt. His presence was marked by an undeniable arrogance, an air of superiority that was as palpable as his impressive physical stature. His imposing figure, towering at nearly 30 feet with broad shoulders and a commanding presence, was hard to ignore. His celestial bow, intricately carved and imbued with a divine glow, only added to the aura of grandeur he carried.

However, beneath the veneer of respect that his arrival demanded, I sensed an undercurrent of resentment and hostility. The Hunt members' reactions were mixed, their initial awe quickly overshadowed by a collective unease. Orion's reputation as the son of Zeus and his romantic involvement with Artemis meant that he was not just another hunter but a figure of significant power and influence. His demeanor, though charismatic, carried an edge of arrogance that seemed to grate on the nerves of those around him.

Orion's entrance was marked by a casual confidence that bordered on condescension. "So, you're the one causing all this stir," he said, his voice rich with an almost palpable disdain as he approached me. "I've heard quite a lot about you, though I must admit, I didn't expect you to be so... unimpressive."

His words were a thinly veiled insult, and the Hunt members' reaction was telling. Some shifted uncomfortably, while others smirked, clearly enjoying the spectacle. Artemis, despite her usual aloofness, seemed to be affected by Orion's arrival. Her eyes, usually so fierce and unyielding, softened slightly as she regarded him, though there was a flicker of tension in her gaze.

As days passed, it became increasingly clear that Orion's presence was more about asserting dominance than offering support. He took every opportunity to display his prowess, often boasting about his accomplishments and belittling the skills of others. His interactions with the Hunt members were marked by a distinct lack of humility, and his tendency to lord over others only exacerbated the already strained environment.

During training sessions, Orion's behavior was particularly irksome. He would often critique the techniques of others, including my own, with an air of superiority that was both irritating and demoralizing. His comments were sharp and dismissive, aimed at undermining the confidence of those around him. "If you'd only listened to me, you'd be a much better hunter," he'd say, his tone dripping with condescension.

His arrogance was matched only by his blatant disregard for the challenges faced by others. While he was quick to highlight the faults of those around him, he was unwilling to acknowledge his own shortcomings. This attitude extended to his interactions with me. Despite his supposed role as a supporter, his behavior was anything but supportive. Instead, he seemed intent on proving his superiority, often at my expense.

Orion's disdain for me was particularly evident in our interactions. He would often make snide remarks about my abilities, and his attempts to undermine my efforts were both public and humiliating. "I've seen better performances from mortals," he once remarked during a training session, his voice carrying a tone of contempt.

The Hunt members, despite their initial awe, were not immune to Orion's condescending attitude. Their respect for him seemed to wane as his behavior became increasingly intolerable. Whispers of discontent spread among the members, though they were careful not to voice their opinions openly. The atmosphere within the Hunt grew more tense, with Orion's presence serving as a catalyst for discord.

One evening, as we gathered around the campfire, Orion's arrogance reached a new height. He regaled us with tales of his conquests and achievements, his stories laced with exaggerations and half-truths. The Hunt members listened with a mix of disbelief and annoyance, their patience wearing thin. I could see the frustration in their eyes, a reflection of the growing resentment that had become a constant undercurrent.