eclipse [j.grace 1]

xxii. before you speak, don't move

The sun had barely risen over Camp Jupiter, casting a golden light over the preparations that were already in full swing. The camp's usually tranquil atmosphere was now charged with a sense of urgency. The evidence of Lyra's betrayal had sent shockwaves through the camp, and the Senate was set to convene to address the crisis.

Eira, Jason, and Reyna stood at the center of a bustling assembly area, each of them focused on their tasks. Eira moved with purpose, her earlier doubts and fears replaced by a steely determination. Her interactions with Lyra had solidified her resolve; she could not allow the camp's future to be compromised.

Jason, by her side, was rallying their allies, his usual easy going demeanour replaced by a more serious and commanding presence. He had always been good at reading people, and now he used that skill to persuade others to stand with them. His conversations were marked by a mixture of urgency and reassurance as he explained the gravity of the situation.

Reyna, equally focused, was coordinating with the camp's leaders and strategists. Her sense of responsibility and loyalty to the camp was evident as she made sure that every detail was addressed. Her interactions with Eira and Jason were marked by a newfound respect, as their shared experience of betrayal had brought them closer.

Octavian, meanwhile, had been more involved in the camp's preparations than usual. His presence had grown more noticeable, his influence subtly but surely expanding. 

Eira had been wary of him, but he had been helpful, providing insights and strategies that proved invaluable. Despite his apparent eagerness to assist, there was an air of ambiguity surrounding his true intentions.

-----

In the Senate chamber, the atmosphere was tense. The room was filled with a mix of anxious murmurs and stern faces as the Senators awaited the arrival of Eira, Jason, and Reyna. The evidence against Lyra was to be presented, and with it, the hope of finally addressing the camp's mounting challenges.

Octavian, standing slightly apart from the group, watched with a calculated gaze. He had managed to secure a position of prominence in the proceedings, his role in the unfolding events both conspicuous and enigmatic. His ability to sway opinions and rally support was undeniable, though his ultimate goals remained shrouded in mystery.

As Eira, Jason, and Reyna presented their case, the evidence was met with a mixture of shock and disbelief. The Senators, once loyal to Lyra, were visibly disturbed by the revelations. 

The weight of the evidence, combined with the undeniable proof of Lyra's collusion with Selene, swayed the room toward action.

"Lyra's actions have put us all at risk," Jason declared, his voice resonating with urgency. "We can't afford to ignore this. The camp needs to unite against this threat and prepare for whatever comes next."

Reyna nodded in agreement, her voice steady and firm. "We must act quickly to fortify our defences and address the breach in our leadership. The camp's unity is our greatest strength."

The Senators, though initially hesitant, began to rally behind the trio's call for action. The camp's preparations were stepped up, with an emphasis on strengthening defences and ensuring that everyone was ready for the impending conflict.

Octavian's role in these preparations became increasingly prominent. He was often seen strategizing with key figures, his influence growing as he helped to organize and mobilize the camp's resources. Despite his apparent eagerness to contribute, there was a lingering sense of wariness surrounding his motivations.

The atmosphere was a mixture of anxiety and determination. The sense of impending conflict loomed over everyone as preparations continued. Eira, Jason, and Reyna worked tirelessly, their efforts focused on ensuring that the camp was ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.