eclipse [j.grace 1]

ii. i was seven and you were nine

Apollo's sun chariot, now reverted to its radiant, golden glory, hovered silently above the quiet landscape of Camp Half-Blood. The camp was bustling with activity as the chariot touched down, and Eira watched with a mix of curiosity and apprehension. As the chariot settled, Apollo's cheerful demeanour seemed to dim, his usually bright eyes taking on a more serious glint.

With a knowing smile, he turned to Eira, his voice soft but resolute. "Well, Little Star, I think it's time we had a chat."

Eira, still adjusting to the recent whirlwind of events, looked up at him. "What's up, Dad?"

Apollo's smile faded into a thoughtful expression. "You've been with me for a long time now. You're growing up, and it's clear you need to find your own place, away from the shadow of my chariot. I've decided that it's time for you to go to Camp Jupiter."

Eira's eyes widened. "Camp Jupiter? But—"

Apollo cut her off gently. "I know it's sudden, but it's the best place for you to learn and grow. They have resources that will help you harness your abilities and get used to being around others like you. Plus, I'll be around to visit now and then."

Eira bit her lip, trying to process the change. "What about you? Are you... are you sure about this?"

-----

The clearing was a hive of activity as the Hunters of Artemis, under Artemis's sharp direction, set up their temporary camp. The flickering firelight cast long shadows, and the air was charged with a mix of urgency and determination. Eira, standing slightly apart from the bustle, felt a wave of apprehension mixed with the comfort of familiar faces.

Apollo stood beside her, his presence a calming contrast to the hectic atmosphere. He was explaining some details to Eira, his voice steady and reassuring. "This is a different kind of environment from what you're used to," he said. "The Hunters are skilled and focused, and they have their own way of doing things. You'll need to be adaptable."

Eira nodded, her gaze scanning the camp. She spotted Artemis moving with grace and purpose, her eyes occasionally flitting towards the assembled group. Despite her familiarity with Artemis and the Hunters, the presence of the demigods was new and unfamiliar.

Apollo's chariot touched down lightly in the clearing, its golden radiance casting a warm, reassuring glow over the camp. Eira stepped out, her eyes scanning the bustling scene. The Hunters of Artemis were already busy taking down their temporary camp, their movements efficient and purposeful.

The Hunters of Artemis, having finished their camp takedown and took care of final details, began to board the bus, their movements coordinated and efficient. They settled into the back of the bus, their disciplined presence creating a distinct contrast to the more casual demeanour of the demigods.

Percy Jackson, Nico di Angelo, Thalia Grace, and Grover Underwood gathered at the front of the bus. They watched with a mix of curiosity and interest as the Hunters took their seats. The bus's interior was spacious, with comfortable seating and an array of modern amenities that seemed out of place in the divine setting.

Eira stood with Apollo near the entrance of the bus, feeling the mix of excitement and nervousness about this new experience. Apollo turned to her with a reassuring smile. "Ready to go?"

Eira nodded. "Yes, Dad."

Apollo led Eira into the bus, guiding her to a seat near the front. Percy, Nico, Thalia, and Grover were already seated, their attention split between the modern marvel of the bus and the divine presence of Apollo.