Xenomorphic

Chapter 26:The Huntresses

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Getting to know the Girls

August 15, 2006

Appalachian Mountains

In a clearing in the forests surrounding the mountains East of New England, the Hunters of Artemis had made their camp for the evening, the first one since departing from Camp Half-Blood. Tents provided a perimeter, with a series of large logs serving as the girls' seats, seats that were arranged around a blazing fire. Prowling silently around the camp were a few wolves, keeping an eye for any unwanted attention, and silver hawks flew around above, or were perched in the trees.

Asteria sat on a log, Thalia sitting next to her as she was the only Huntress Asteria was-as-of-yet familiar with. The rest of the Huntresses were sitting on the other logs. Now, Asteria had read all of their minds, and she knew who all of them were, and could write detailed biographies over each girls' life, but telling them that she picked apart their thoughts would be rude, and Asteria was hoping for a little bit of acceptance here.

Telling everyone she was a telepath would most likely damage that endeavor.

Through years of training, Asteria picked up certain things as she watched the immortals around her get situated. She could tell who was mortal-born, and who wasn't. She could tell who the godly parent was of almost all of the Huntresses. She could tell who were siblings, and who were nymphs. She could also tell what bond a girl had with another, whether it be friendship, sibling-like, or romantic.

All but one couple present made it obvious that they were in love by holding their girlfriend's hand. The exception was Artemis and Zoё. They had a face to keep up and everything. Asteria knew they were in love because she had read Zoё's unprotected mind back at CHB, and knew that her relationship with Artemis evolved past friends about 80 years after their first meeting, and had continued to stay strong to this day.

"Girls," Artemis said, gaining everyone's attention. "As you're all aware of by now, we have a new member joining us tonight. Please welcome Asteria Jackson, daughter of Poseidon."

The camp was filled with greetings of varying degrees of enthusiasm. Some were bubbly and exuberant, and some were more subdued and laid back, but there wasn't a single frown or negative feeling among the Huntresses. All of them were genuinely happy to have Asteria here.

"Now, she hasn't officially joined the Hunt, because I have not made the offer. Asteria and I have discussed this, and have come to the consensus that she will intern with us for the next year, upon which time she will make a decision regarding her future. I want all of you to show her the kindness and compassion you show all your sisters, however, and I will not tolerate any maltreatment or attempts at forcing Asteria to join us. This is her decision, and no one else's, am I understood?"

There was a chorus of 'yes, milady!' as the Huntresses answered in unison.

Artemis smiled. "Good. Now, seeing as you'll be joining us for the next year, Asteria, I think introductions are in order. I am Artemis, Goddess of the Hunt and Wilderness, Chastity and Womanhood, and of the Moon. I was born 4,600 years ago to Zeus and Leto. I enjoy spending time with my Huntresses, doing a variety of things, and I dislike the state of the modern world. A fact I find interesting about myself, is that, contrary to popular belief, I do not outright despise males. Do not approve of most males, yes, but I don't hate them." Her piece said, Artemis sat back down on her log nodding to the girl to her right.

The girl that stood next had grey eyes and smooth blonde hair, with purple highlights, that fell to the nape of her neck, and an even tan. She looked about 15. "My name is Bethany Austin. I was born 327 years ago, to Terrance Austin and Athena. I like my sisters, architecture, hunting, and my girlfriend," she gestured down to the smiling girl next to her, "and I hate spiders. That's about it, really."