Camp Half Blood: One "Salty" Adventure

Chapter 17

Cole's POV:

Another couple of nights and another stop. We've come far and I suggested that Ben get some rest since he's been so stressed. He's not looking too good, and I'm a bit worried about him and his health. Especially, I'm worried about his mental state. Rose is the only thing crowding his mind and he's not thinking about the small, essential things like staying hydrated, eating, or resting. After a bit of fighting, he agreed to take a nap for a couple of hours. Then he said that he'd take a watch while I slept. Finally, it's my turn after Ben had woken up. I handed him some food and a water and then laid down on the sleeping bag, immediately falling asleep. But... it wasn't a dream like I had hoped. "Cole."

"What is it, Damian. I thought you were coming to me in a couple weeks? It's only been a few days." Damian nodded.

"That I did... but things have taken a turn..." He replied hesitantly.

"Why? Is something wrong?" I asked nervously.

"Yes... kinda. Well, Rose has gotten sick. Really sick... and Myra-"

"Wh-what!? What's wrong with Myra!? Is she alright? What happened?" I cut him off, immediately beginning to question him.

"She's fine, she's fine. It's just... she's... we've been giving them a serum so that they'd be easier for Olthen to manipulate. But... it's working a bit quicker than I had originally suspected. It's not supposed to do that..." he trailed off, lost in thought. I cringed at, yet another, mention of Olthen's name. The thought of him would never cease to scare me. "So basically," He continued. "You need to get here quick. Before Olthen perceives Myra as 'ready.' I don't think she'll be able to last much longer."

"Well how long do you think we have to get there?"

"Time? Well... if you want to get here before Olthen wants to start... I'd say you should probably try to get here in eight or nine days... I'm sorry it's so soon, and I know you're not close enough to get here that quickly... but you've gotta try, Cole. I'll do my best to keep her sane, but you gotta hurry." He instructed me. I nodded slowly and sadly.

"We'll try. And, Damian?" I asked. He looked up to me in reply. "When we get to you, we're going to have to fight, correct?" He nodded with a sad smirk. "We're going to be exhausted, Damian... we'll need help." He shook his head.

"I don't know if I can give you much help. Most of the people around here are on Olthen's side... out of fear, mostly." He explained to me.

"Please, Damian. We need someone." I begged him, taking a step closer out of my desperateness.

"I'll see what I can do, alright? In the meantime, get some sleep... you're going to need it." I nodded, and then he disappeared, leaving me to my dreams.