The Great Huntress

Chapter 15- Goodbyes

I spent the whole day trying to get through my schedule without feeling miserable. I tried my best to smile and wave back at everyone… To help them in their chores, or even join them on free hours. But deep down, I wasn’t happy. I couldn’t focus. At the back of my head, Alex was still there. I was starting to feel I was going crazy. It’s only been 2 days and I was already hallucinating; seeing Alex wherever I turned. I’ve already mistaken a camper who was the same height and hair color as him, it turned out that it was just some kid of Aphrodite. I kept telling myself to be strong and move on, but my heart didn’t want to.

It was 4PM; I was in the Archery ranch with Neona. I was helping her teach some campers on aiming and shooting.

“You alright?” Neona asked as she showed a camper her perfect aim shot.

“Yeah, I’m fine.” I lied. “A little higher, Pam.” I said as I passed by my half-sister.

“Okay guys, gather round!” Neona yelled.

Campers huddled in a circle as Neona started to speak, “Great job guys!” The campers smiled and applauded. “Just keep working on your positions and aims. We’ll see you guys later. Class dismissed.” She announced. The campers left and I was alone with Neona.

“You make a pretty good teacher.” I joked.

“Ha-ha.” She said as she made a face.

“No seriously. You should like stay here and be an archery teacher.”

She smiled at me, “Thanks.” She said. We walked towards the beach.

We reached Long Island sound when I asked, “So, how long are you staying?”

“Hmm?” She looked at me, like she’d been woken up from a dream. “Oh! Um… I’m not sure yet.” She said.

I looked at her confused, “What do you mean ‘You’re not sure’?” I asked.

She sighed, “I told you I was here on a ‘secret’ mission for Lady Artemis, right?”

“Yeah…” I said. “So, what is it?” I asked. We stopped to look at the sea, and then I remember that this was the exact spot where Annabeth, Percy, Alex, and I first talked about the quest.

My heart-felt heavy, I was starting to miss Alex again when Neona said something that made me snap back up, “You.” She said.

“Huh? Me?” I asked. What kind of mission involves me?

“Yes, you. Lady Artemis said that I would be the one to take you to the hunters. You know, when you actually decide to join us.” She looked down at the sands.

There was a moment of silence. I stared beyond the sea as I thought about the offer. Me? A hunter? Right now, it didn’t sound like a bad idea. I mean, Artemis did say I was destined for this. Maybe I should accept it. After all, I find it impossible falling for someone ever again. There’s only one person I would love…and that’s Alex… and he’s already in the after-life.

“Maybe it’s not such a bad idea.” I murmured.

Neona’s face brightened, “So you’ll accept it?” she said, excitedly.

“Maybe…” My voice trailed off as I thought of leaving Camp Half Blood. I’ve been here for so long. I’ve grown up here. Could I possibly leave it behind?

“Kaye?” she asked. “Are you alright?” She was waving a hand in front of me; like I was in some sort of trance.

I blinked, “Uh…sorry. I think I have to think about it.” I said.