This chapter is dedicated in the memory of my Grandpa. He passed away March 5th 2017 peacefully in his home with dignity. He was a wonderful, kind, and loving grandpa who would listen to you even if he didn't know what you were talking about. I miss him very much. I hope he and my grandma are living together once more in heaven.

It was Tuesday morning and everyone was eating breakfast. Tomorrow Leo, Calypso, and Apollo would be leaving to head towards Indiana, the only place mentioned in the prophecy. It was good as any place to start on reclaiming the Oracles. Last night they had finished repairing the lava wall. Everyone was in a good mood as the entire camp was back to normal. Time for life to resume its normal course.

"Can you believe it? Tomorrow will be the start of the first quest in ages around here. I hope that three of them can do it," Maui said, taking a big bite out of his waffle. "You ever think about going on our own quest?"

"Living here in a quest in itself. Haven't you had enough excitement to last you a month?" Eunice asked with a raised eyebrow. She seemed to be extra happy today. She had not stopped smiling since she read the contents of a package that had been left on the edge of her bed.

The boy shrugged his shoulders. He was always up for some fun. The others laughed at continued to enjoy their meal. Next to them the Champions were going over the new patrols including into the woods a bit way to make sure none on the ants came into camp. Just then the barrier flashed and there was a loud hum. Someone was trying to get into the camp!

"Let's move Champions! Where's the attempted breach?" Uma called out.

"The main entrance! We're coming with you to strengthen the barrier," Chui responded. Everyone got up and followed him grabbing whatever they could use as a weapon. They all feared this was another attack from Nero to prevent Apollo and his friends from leaving camp.

Flying above their heads was Tanzanite, the Champions messenger pigeon. She let out a coo as she flew through the barrier and circled around the entrance way. Spotting a familiar person she circled around and landed on the man's outstretched arm. The man scratched her head and gave her some birdseed. He then placed a message in her messenger tube.

Tanzanite flew back through the barrier and headed to Wyatt. The young man had just reached the crest of the hill staring at the barrier. He could make out a lot of people standing around the entrance. None of them looked like kids. They were adults, which made the situation even worse. A few of them even seemed very anxious.

A loud coo caused Wyatt to look up. He held out an arm for Tanzanite to land on. "What are you doing here girl? A message? Let me see that." He pulled out the scroll and read the message. He went even paler and the hair on his half shaved head stood up. He couldn't breathe for a few seconds.

"Wyatt what's wrong? Wyatt!" Leilani asked. The boy wasn't responding so she snatched the message out of his hands and read it. She let out a chocking sound and her eyes bugged out. Like Wyatt she had entered a state of shock dropping the paper.

Heather was the first Acolyte on the scene. She peered through the barrier seeing the outline of many people, two who seemed very familiar. Seeing the message, she took it and read it. Her heartbeat sped up as she turned and headed back down the hill to meet up with Chiron, who was galloping up the incline.

"Ms. Tebra, why are you not at your station?" Chiron demanded as he halted in his tracks. "Nero and his forces have return to…."

"It's not Nero or his goons out there. It's oh just read this!" she told him as she handed over the message. Wordlessly he read the message and he almost reared all the way up, unable to believe the words on the message. "Is the handwriting authentic?"

"Judging from Wyatt and Leilani's reaction, yes. Oh no, this had to be what our patroness were talking about, when they "visited" us a few days ago. Do we have to let them in?" Heather uncharacteristically begged.

Chiron told her he didn't think they had a choice. Not when two goddesses had given a stamp of approval on this. He turned and ordered the campers to stand down. "We are about to receive some special guests. They will only be here for today. Please resume your normal activities. Also, please be on your best behavior. I mean it."

Confused the other campers left to return to their activities. The trio of questers and Rachel stood their ground wondering what was going on. "Apollo, I have to ask you to stay inside your cabin for now with Leo and Calypso. It won't be forever, but this situation needs a delicate touch and I fear your presence might upset that."

"What do you mean by that?" the ex-god asked. Chiron didn't say anything. Calypso and Leo took Apollo by his arms and dragged him back to his cabin. Rachel raised a quizzical eyebrow.

"Ms. Dare if you could fetch my wheelchair and hurry back please. I will need your assistance if we're to help our visitors to stay calm." Rachel nodded and raced towards the Big House to fetch the wheelchair.

While he was giving orders Wyatt had come out of his shock and told the others who exactly was at the gate. None of them could believe it as they entered a mini shock state. They all stared at the barrier, almost begging the people standing there to go away, but it would not be happening. Hastily they cleaned themselves up and held their breath. Taking a deep breath, Chui walked over to the edge of the barrier. He muttered something in Ancient Greek and touched the barrier with his lantern.

The barrier shimmered and slowly a hole opened in it large enough for the small group to step through. A familiar group of people. With looks of shock and surprise several adults took one look around at the camp below, then to the centaur who was standing behind the kids as Rachel rushed up with his wheelchair. Most of them had a hard time recognizing the kids. The group couldn't even speak except for one person.

"Hello Wyatt, sorry about dropping by unexpectedly, but I couldn't keep them away for much longer. I'm just glad your patroness agreed to this or we'd be having a manhunt for you and others," Wyatt's grandpa told him before jerking his thumb behind him. "Your grandma here is handling this a lot better than the others. Tried to prepare them, but as you can see I got mixed results."

Behind him the rest of the parents and one social worker jaws went back into their mouths. The kids cringed before giving out a variety of greetings to their parents/guardians. This was going to be an interesting visit. One that wasn't going to end well.

After the immediate shock wore off and Chiron got into his magical wheelchair, the group of adults followed the children as they lead the way down Half Blood Hill and past the Cave of the Oracle. Chiron and Rachel took turns explaining about the history of the camp and the truth about the campers. No one except the Grimwoods said anything as they tried to process everything they were seeing.

"So this camp has been around a long time? You must be honored to help guide and shape modern demigods. The children all look very happy here. How many children are currently here?" Mrs. Grimwood asked kindly. Like her husband she found this place fascinating and welcoming.

"We have a small group of year-rounders' with us right now, about a dozen or so, not including your grandson and his friends. This camp is meant to train and teach the demigod children about their heritage. There are dangers out in the real world and this camp is the only safe place for many."

"Excuse me, what do you mean by that?" Mrs. Brookfield, Eunice's caseworker, asked with a hardened gaze. She was furiously writing in her casebook about everything she saw and shaping it as a report that would get Eunice back to Montana ASAP. Looking around at the various campers, she had no doubt many of them weren't here with legal permission from their caretakers.

"Mrs. Brookfield, if the gods of Ancient Greece are still around, then that means the mythological beasts are still around. There is something called the Mist that hides them from normal people, disguising them as something else to protect those who can't see through it from danger. The same Mist disguises this camp as farmland, as you probably saw from the road," Rachel explained to the caseworker.

"If this is disguised why can we see what is truly here now?" Ms. Gonzales asked politely. They had finished walking through the strawberry fields, a great surprise in the middle of January. She admitted it was nice and warmer in here, the cold wasn't as strong.

"Because Hestia and Hera temporarily opened your minds wide enough to accept what is here. Once you leave this camp, you'll most likely forget what you saw and your mind will make something up to fill the blank period," Tino explained to his mom. He added that mortals couldn't enter here normally and that the kids could enter and leave, (they had tested that), because of the blessing they each received.

"There is no such thing as any god, but only the One True God. Sidonia, why have you betrayed your beliefs with this heresy?" Mr. Silverstein demanded as they passed by the volleyball court and would be arriving at the Big House in a matter of minutes. He grabbed her arm roughly squeezing a bit harder than he needed to.

She used her combat training to twist out of his grip and looked directly into her father's eyes as she replied. "I have betrayed no beliefs Father. I practice our faith every single day. The Greek Pantheon are individual beings who live in higher plane of existence, but they are not the One True God. Hestia, is my patroness and a godmother to my cabin mates and me. I only call upon her if I am seeking advice about my duties."

Before her father could respond, Chui butted in. "Mr. Silverstein, everyone. Please, just observe and listen for now before you pass judgement. Our patronesses obviously felt that you deserved to know the whole truth about what is going on here. If they can be generous enough to allow something as big as this, then please don't offend them by being too hasty."

His mother gave him a look of pride. Her son had always had a way with words. Hearing him speak so confidently and doing his best to be diplomatic. He stood tall and proud. His bunk mates leaned towards him with complete trust in their body language. "My son makes a fair point. If he can be flexible enough to give this place a chance, then we should show the same courtesy." She looked at the rest of the families with a pointed expression. Silently the group agreed to listen and observe.

They entered the Big House and were greeted by Seymour roaring for a snack. Eunice picked up some snacks from the table and fed the leopard head, scratching him behind the ears. Rachel went into the kitchen area to get some drinks and fruit. During this impromptu brunch Chiron finished his explanation about the camp and how the children's' roles as Acolytes and Champions, had become vital to everyday camp life. Each kid then told them how they were selected and what domain they represented.

Taking note that a few of the parents were muttering under their breath about not seeing a single piece of evidence that any schooling took place; Vitas agreed to show the parents the upper portions of the House, including their classrooms, trophy area, and the records room where they were working on the chronicles.

"Chiron teaches us for an hour and half downstairs. Learning to read and speak Ancient Greek, some other languages, and history. This is where our assistant satyr teacher, Jake, teaches Eunice, Maui, along with me and Orlanda for another hour and half. We've covered most of the school year so far," Vitas explained as he walked over to his desk. He pulled out his science text book and showed them that they were currently studying different types of matter and how to measure them.

"Tomorrow there's a quiz about everything we've learned so far in this chapter. I've kept an A-average this school year and I have even earned extra credit for bringing in my rock collection for study last month."

"Only three hours of school? How can you achieve academic success with only three hours of school?" Mrs. Choi asked anxiously. She was trying to keep an open mind, especially when her son introduced them to the satyr Jake. It just went against her traditional nature. There was nothing Korean about this place.

"There are tons of other activities we do throughout the day that count as class time," Heather explained from the doorway. "If you'll follow us we'll show you the different activity areas and what we do during the week."

"You might also be interested in some of the other building around here to ease some of your worries. There's the camp store, infirmary, and of course our cabins," Iggy mentioned out loud. Xylon snorted in delight. The mascot was certain his boy's parents would love their cabin.

"You can meet some our friends and watch us perform some of our responsibilities. By the time dinner is served, you'll love this place as much as we do," Maui told everyone with huge smile on his face. A usual no one could contain his energy. He ran ahead excited to show them the first place.

The tour started at the forge, where they ran into Nyssa and Harley. Nyssa was making her brother melt down his chain saw Frisbees and turn them into something that wasn't a death trap. The eight year old didn't look happy about that. He brightened up when he saw Maui yet lost his voice upon seeing all the adults.

"Hi Maui, who are your guests?" Nyssa asked in a normal voice. She remembered what Chiron said about acting normal. If the goddesses let them in the camp, they must have had a reason. She didn't want to do anything that would cause her friends to leave.

"Our parents and guardians," he replied as each mortal introduced their family members. "So what are you doing today?"

"Melting down some of Harley's toys so we can re-purpose the Celestial Bronze. I figure we need a few more shields. We don't have enough in the armory after the attack."

"What attack would that be young lady?" Mrs. Huiah asked in a tight voice.

"I believe you should ask your son and daughter about it. They were amazing and very brave during the attack. Without them, our home would have been destroyed. They earned rewards for their efforts."

Uma tugged on her mother's duppa and talked softly to her father in Hindi. She was urging them to follow her towards the combat area. Her Mama and Father had no doubt taken in account her valari and her polos instead of duppa.

"I know what you are thinking. Have I forgotten the principles of Ahisma? Have I knowingly ignored our basic principles about the spiritual connection between everything? No I haven't Father."

"Uma, you are a dutiful daughter. I'm proud of how much you've grown here and it clear you are a dedicated leader to your young charges. Yet, I still believe it is not a woman's place to fight when a father or kinsmen should be protecting you."

"Father, please try to understand. I have followed the practice of Ahisma when it comes to self-defense. As the Champion of Marriage, not only is it my responsibility to protect the sanctity that is marriage, but at the same time ensure that aggressors remain neutralized so relationships can occur."

"You fought in that battle the girl mention earlier didn't you? Your stance has changed from a gracious daughter to a soldier prepared for battle. Is this true?"

"Yes Mama and I would do it again. I try to avoid conflict and resolve problems without violence. There are times though when I have no choice except to draw my weapon and fight. Is not the protection of those I consider my kin, who have protected me from danger as well, not a time to use violence?"

Their conversation was put on hold as Paolo called out a greeting in Portuguese and she responded. She invited him over to meet her parents. Damien was shaking the Grimwoods hands talking up a storm about how cool their grandson was. He even demonstrated how he taught Wyatt how to break out of certain holds.

They stopped at the archery range, where the Frankfurts nearly had a heart attack as they watched their daughter fire arrows. Seeing her hit eight out of ten bull's eyes didn't put them at ease. Once again, they starting citing sports were too dangerous for a blind girl, only to have Kayla unleash her inner coach, giving them a serious talk about athletics and blindness. Behind them Orlanda gave her best friend a big thumbs up.

When they reached the pegusi stables, everyone was speechless. Seeing such magnificent creatures behaving so nicely was astonishing. If any of the adults had thought this was group hallucination, this put an end to that. The Tebras couldn't disguise their joy at seeing Heather and Zoe flying through the air perfectly in sync. Their daughter truly had a knack for riding pegusi.

It went on like this as they visited different areas of the camp. Different places had special meaning to each individual. For example, Tino liked doing inventory at the camp store and making sure everyone had what they needed. Vitas loved cannoning in the lake and searching for rocks along the shore. Sidonia handed out extra samples of her scented candles to everyone present in the arts and crafts pavilion.

During lunch the kids introduced their friends to their loved ones. Each one of them was on their best behavior. Leo and Calypso, who had been released from the Apollo cabin, stopped by for a few minutes before saying they had to go finish packing for their quest tomorrow. Having heard from others what exactly the quest was and the dangers involved, had several mothers and Mrs. Brookfield ready to charge Chiron with child endangerment.

Finally it was time to go see the kids' cabins and listen to them explain their duties. The Acolytes and Champions whispered good luck to one another. It was clear to most of them they still had some serious minds to change on letting them stay. None of them knew what they would do if their parents forced them to leave.

The Steins admitted they were impressed by the Hestia Cabin and couldn't believe that their son had helped build this from the ground up. The yard was spacious and seeing the outdoor enclosure showed that Ichabod was taking care of his pet. Even Xylon seemed eager to show them the special ramp that helped him get in and out of the cabin with ease.

"We fenced in a portion of the green so Xylon could have a nice place to run around and exercise in. He loves his outdoor enclosure where he takes his morning nap in when I'm in class," Iggy explained to his parents. He then pointed to a different corner in the yard where silver tins had been stacked.

"Those tins are for holding the sacred ashes from Hestia Hearth. We collect them every morning and afternoon. During our two hours to carry out our duties, we repurpose the ashes for a variety of purposes from making soap to keeping the algae levels down in the lake. It can be a bit time consuming and messy, but we don't mind."

A few feet away Maui's mom inspected the exterior of the cabin, admiring the details that went into the design. The hybrid structure was charming. "Did you come up with the original design Maui?" She recalled some of her son's early models and this appeared to match one he made.

"Yeah I did Mom. The porch gives us extra space to relax in. The roof is charmed so it can't catch fire. Come on inside, you'll love it as much as we do."

With so many people it was a bit cramped inside. Heather took her folks over to the wardrobe showing them where they kept their hooded shawls. "Each of us has a set of three hooded shawls. Our friend, Tino, his mom made these patches that we sewed on them to make them authentic looking."

"You wear this when performing your duties?" her mother asked. Her daughter nodded and went on to explain some of their duties. "We tend Hestia's Hearth, making sure it keeps burning and protect it in times of danger. We help reinforce the barrier by taking small samples from the fire and reinfusing weak points."

Eunice giggled as she sat on her bed showing how comfy it was. "We're also the welcome committee, take care our domains, and generally just represent Hestia. You know giving her a presence here to remind our friends that without her special hearth, the valley wouldn't be a safe place for everyone here."

Mrs. Brookfield said nothing as she wrote more notes in her casebook noting the living situation. The open windows gave plenty of light, the beds were stable and it appeared that everyone had their own space. The cabin certainly seemed safe and Eunice was happy. However, as her caseworker she had to weigh the safety of her charge against Eunice's own happiness.

Chui took his parents into the bathroom showing them the open baths with a two water closets and a huge sink with a mirror that all six of them shared. "We can draw these curtains when we bathe so boys and girls don't get a show of one another. Communal baths existed during Ancient Greek times, so it was easy to incorporate that part into this area."

"Very sensible and shared baths means you can all get clean without a schedule. None of you feel uncomfortable about the situation?" Mrs. Freeman asked her son.

"Not really, it was awkward at first, but we've gotten used to it."

His father asked him about being the Head Councilor for the cabin and was he providing well for his kin. Chui nodded knowing how this was important to his family. Gabonese strongly valued family and strong leadership.

"As Head Councilor, I'm responsible for everyone in my cabin. I go to councilor meetings, plan our activities, and I create our duty schedule. I'm always there whenever someone needs me. As the Acolyte of Stately Order, it's my job to keep everything running smoothly no matter what." He could tell he was winning over his parents.

Sidonia on the other hand, wanted to scream in frustration as her parents nitpicked everything. She had shown them the altar above the hearth. They looked very cross to see Hestia's statue being placed dead center on the mantel. There were other religious symbols on each side of the statue going by age.

"Do you really think it's appropriate for all these different religious symbols being together on this altar?" Mr. Silverstein asked pointing to the mantel. There was a carving of the Hawaiian god Maui, a simple cross, the Star of David, two more crosses, and small ceramic antelope piece.

"I believe that everyone has the right to worship in their own way Father. I know it is difficult for you to understand, but I have found a place here that I'm happy to just be me."

She looked at her mother, who hadn't said anything yet. Mrs. Silverstein had finished examining the cabin. She looked out the window towards the other campers. Her gaze landed on Valentina, who was sitting down on her cabin steps, bedazzling a pair of sunglasses. Turning her attention back at her daughter she silently studied her.

"Father, Mom, please for once think about me and not my position in the family pecking order. My brothers are on their way to following their dreams. My sisters are growing up happy dreaming about their future. As the middle child I'm the only one whose not truly happy back home."

"What do you mean by that Sidonia?" her mom asked before her husband could speak. She already had her suspicions about the positive changes to her daughter's life, she just wanted Sidonia to confirm them.

"I'm still a little shy and sometimes have trouble standing up for myself. Still, for once I'm doing things for myself, I have confidence to speak my mind without worry. I've done things I never dreamed I do such as become a model for my friend Valentina's designs.

My unique talents are appreciated and even help people. The demigods are exactly like our people were during WWII, only its everyday of their lives. I helped save their lives a few days ago. If I leave, I'll always remember that and feel as if I let them down. You say I'm adult in the eyes of the community. If that's true then let me stay here and do my duty." Sidonia anxiously waited to hear what her parents had to say about that.

In Hera's cabin there were a lot of mixed feelings between the adults and children. The cabin was very fancy being made out of marble. The skylight let in the afternoon sun. Uma was seated on one cushy couch and Wyatt on the other. Leilani was showing her the trophy case filled with academic and Friday night activity trophies sat. Tino was showing his mom the bathroom he helped put together. Vitas and Orlanda sat on their beds trying to win over their parents.

Uma and her parents were speaking in Hindi again, wanting to keep their conversation private. Throughout the day, her parents had slowly been accepting that this place, while not exactly as it had been described in the brochure, was still what they had been told. Her translating Paolo's conversation about his friendship with her had helped considerably.

"I admit this place is different then what we were told certainly. I'm half tempted to drag you out of this place and ship you back to India until your marriage is arranged. It's what any responsible father would do."

Uma hung her head. She knew where this was going and moved to get up. She would start packing her bags and say goodbye to her friends. Her mother however tugged her to sit back down. Curious, she sat back down. She tilted her head up and looked at her father.

"As you are my only child and daughter, it falls to me to ensure you're provided for and have good standing among our fellow Hindu. When I look at you I see more than just a smart, faithful girl who always listens to others. You are a strong woman who takes care of her household. A girl who has moved up the caste system to be a warrior. Most importantly, I see a young lady, who has taken on a huge responsibility to care for the "poor" and fulfill her duties to a patron."

"We're so proud of you Uma. You have kept your faith while accepting a non-traditional goddess as another guide to help you in life. It would be wrong to take you from this place. As long as you promise to keep following our faith and come home for the summer, we'll let you stay."

Uma was so happy to hear to hear that, she started to cry a little. All she could do was thank her parents over and over again.

Wyatt noticed the quiet celebration with a pleased expression on his face. Then it shifted to his bored looking face as he sarcastically asked his grandparents about his mom's condition. "Has she gotten any worse, does she miss me?"

"Your mom is the same as ever Wyatt. Most of the time she can't remember she had you," his grandma told him gently. He looked so sad hearing that. "On good days, when she remembers recent events, she's very proud of you. Did you one to come back home to be closer to her?"

Wyatt shook his head explaining he couldn't leave camp now. He reminded his grandparents about the three evil emperors were still out there. Unless they were defeated, the modern would be overrun by crazy and cruel emperors. No, he would stay and keep everyone safe. His grandparents couldn't be prouder.

Leilani and her father had sat down on some stools she had gotten out of the closet. The fourteen year old had just finished telling her father about rescuing her brother after he'd been taken hostage. Now she was awaiting judgement by him. "I should have been more responsible for Maui. If I had partnered with him during the race, I could have prevented him from being captured. He nearly died because I couldn't keep him safe." She hung her head ashamed for breaking her promise to her Dad.

"Sounds to me without you; Maui would have died along with several other people, a sacred site destroyed, and your friend's home lost," her dad countered. She looked up at him, stunned by what he said.

"I don't understand, I thought you be furious with me!" she exclaimed.

"I am furious, but not with you or your brother. Not even at this place and its residents. I'm furious at Nero and everything he's done to innocent people in his mad quest for power. You and your brother, out of billions of children, were selected by two powerful goddesses, because you're the best representation of architecture and womanhood. That must count for something important."

Leilani blushed a bit embarrassed to hear her father talk to her about womanhood. "I am pretty courageous and clever. Not to mention adventurous, caring, and selfless. Even faced with death, and thinking how you and mom would be effected by it, I didn't give up."

In the bathroom Tino was babbling on about how he had installed most of the plumbing. He kept pointing out the details on the walls. He was telling his mom how he did most of the maintenance around here when gently asked him to stop talking.

She smiled at her son, tears glittering in her eyes. "Oh Tino, I'm so happy for you. To think my son was chosen for such an important role, to guide others on how to be a good mother or even fathers, is such an enormous responsibility. I always knew there was something special waiting for you." She embraced him, running her fingers through his low ponytail.

"I'm proud of myself too Mom," he whispered in her ears. Taking a step back he scratched behind his big ears, a telltale sign that he was anxious about something in his mind. "I am proud and happy to be here, but you need me back at home. You shouldn't have work overtime. The kids need someone to watch them while their mothers do their shopping. Not to mention I should be taking care of you."

"Oh Tino, I love you so much, but I would be a selfish mother if I took you away from here," his mom told him. Tino started to protest, but she tapped him on his big nose, something she had always done when she wanted to talk to him about something important.

"I've worked so hard to make sure you had a good life. You're everything I could want in a son. Well mannered, respectful, and devoted to everyone you love." Holding his face in her hands she stroked his face. "This is your chance Tino. I let you come here because I believed it was the best thing for you. I still think that even after learning the entire truth."

"Don't you need me Mom? I love you more than this camp."

"Tino love never fades, we grow closer, but sometimes we need to be apart so we can share our love. Right now your love is needed here. We'll see each other again. I promise, but for now, I give my permission for you to stay."

Vitas was clenching his hands as he listen to his father go about how could Vitas have lied to him and take a blessing from a who clearly doesn't belong in Confucianism. Why was he dressed as hooligan? How could he lie to his family after learning the truth about this place?

His mother was also clearly distressed going on about how could she let her husband convince her this was a good idea. There were beasts everywhere, supernatural children just waiting to curse her son. No, he was coming straight home and they would find a shawoman to rid him of this blessing.

A voice that sounded suspiciously like Malcolm's whispered in his head. Vitas remembered asking how he could find himself while honoring his culture. For once in his life Vitas threw etiquette out the proverbial window and stood up for himself.

"NO! You are not going to remove my blessing. Nor are you going to take me away from my friends and family here."

"VITAS! How dare you show such disrespect to me? I am your father and therefore I'm your superior. Clearly you have forgotten proper etiquette and that you are to be obedient. As my oldest son and only child it falls on you to be the main provider, to improve our social status. Not embarrass us and bring shame to our kibun. When will you learn that family is everything?"

"Maybe when you remember our family left South Korea four generations ago and I'm Korean American! All my life I have done everything you and mom wanted. I have followed all traditions, put family first, and have lived up to my role as your heir and son.

I did everything Korean, I did the things you wanted me to do. I never got to do anything I wanted. You put me down each time. I am not your clone Father! I am my own person and I will not be stripped of my right to choose because of tradition. I love and honor our culture, but I am embracing my American side now.

Does it mean nothing to you out of every kid on the planet that I was chosen to be the Champion of the Heavens? For the first time I have friends? That I have finally figure out who I am? This is my kinship group, my family. You can drag me home and force traditions down my throat, but if you do, know I will never forgive you and I will sue for emancipation!"

Vitas's parents were taken about by their son's attitude. By all accounts Vitas should be receiving the harshest punishment he could be given after he was home again. On the other hand, in their culture a strong person, especially a son who stood up for his family, to defend their honor was considered to be a worthy and respectful person. Clearly there was much to still consider before making a final decision here.

Orlanda was getting tired of the same old spiel. Her parents kept telling her that she needed to go back to her previous school. There were too many dangerous things here and she was helpless to avoid danger because she couldn't see. They had told her not to pursue athletics and doing something simple and safe, such as theater. As soon as they could, they would get her out of danger to a nice safe place, where she didn't have to worry about getting hurt.

"That's it, I'm sick and tired of you treating me like I'm going to break into a thousand pieces if I'm not constantly under someone supervision. You have to stop being so overprotective!" Orland stated loudly to them in impatience. She sensed her parents taking a step back at her exclamation.

"We're just trying to keep you safe. Everything we've ever done has been to make life easier for you," Mrs. Frankfurt insisted to her daughter. "You're the youngest in the family and my baby girl. I want you to be safe from harm. The world is a dangerous place when you can't see."

"Mom, you have to stop blaming yourself for my blindness. You did nothing wrong, congenital defects happen sometimes for no reason at all. This is no one's fault," she insisted knowing that was the heart of the matter. Her parents blamed themselves for this. She turned to her father and spoke to him. "Why do you love Madison and Augusta more than me?"

"That's preposterous Orlanda. I love you and your sisters equally. Each you is special to me. You know I'm always there for you," Mr. Frankfurt informed his child. He reached out for her only for the eleven year old only for her bat his hand away.

The eleven year old girl removed her sunglasses and then crossed her arms. She moved closer to her parents forcing them to look into her blank eyes. "Not in the same way you are there for Augusta and Madison. To you they're queens in chess and I'm the dirty little pawn." She pressed on not wanting to be interrupted. She counted on her fingers how many ways they treated her different or that they loved her siblings more than they did here.

"Madison and Augusta we're only too happy to tell me what a burden I was when I was three. Mom and you would tag team to take care of me, but once I was safely in my room, both of you couldn't wait to play with your normal daughters. One of you always sacrificed your time going to events for my siblings while the other stayed behind to watch me and complaining about it. You encouraged them to pursue their dreams and praised them about their achievements that they earned, only praising me if I didn't run into anything."

Orlanda went on about how they never let her out of the house or meet the other neighborhood kids. That when people came over they made her sit in a chair and not move at all. They got everything they thought she needed to compensate for her lack of sight yes. On the other hand they kept helping her so much she barely had any independence, making her feel like they had no faith in her own ability to manage things.

The worst thing was they never gave her a chance to go to regular school. As soon as they could they shipped her off to the Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind. Visits were infrequent and when they did come, no one in the family actually saw or heard her. They didn't even listen when the teachers told them how well she was doing. They were proud of her of course, but always insisted that she be heavily monitored.

"I was chosen to by, Hera Queen of the Greek Gods herself, to be her Champion of Glory, because I was blind! She didn't see it as a burden, just a challenge that made me work harder and stronger to prove myself. She believed in me and brought me to a place where I'm accepted for who I am and not coddled because of my blindness. If you actually love me and want what's best, then you won't take me away from here." With that she got up and left the cabin to go for a walk.

Seeing their friend and cabin mate leave upset, the other Champions took off after her leaving their families behind. A few minutes later the adults followed after the kids. They followed them towards the Apollo Cabin and were surprised to see the parents of the kids in Hestia's cabin watching as their kids helped a slightly unremarkable teen with last minute things for his quest.

"Remember, if you run into trouble don't hesitate to ask for help. Regular humans can be very helpful if you know the right questions to ask," Heather told the boy as she handed him some extra maps.

"The Midwest can be dangerous and you'll have to watch out for strange weather patterns. If you have to leave behind Festus, try taking public transportation and don't complain about it Phoebus," Chui informed him. Using Apollo's alternate name made sure the folks didn't freak out again.

"Believe me Chui, I am capable of learning how to act like a proper human."

"We'll see about that," Orlanda remarked as she joined the group. "Hey Will, you have something that can calm frayed nerves?" Will nodded and handed her a few oranges to help reduce her stress. "Thanks Will, these are good."

"You're welcome. These are the last of the oranges, so if you need a stress reducer you'll have to eat asparagus."

Orlanda nodded with a shiver. She really didn't like veggies. She was about to ask "Phoebus" if he remembered to write down the prophecy in case his memory failed, when she saw her bunk mates. "What are you doing here?"

"Checking up on you of course. We were worried about you. Also, we wanted to give you this A… I mean Phoebus. It's not much, but we hope this might give you some confidence," Uma told him. She gave him a small plaque with the words Hera had sent them.

"Thanks, I'll look at it each time I need a reminder of why I'm in this mess in the first place."

Everyone laughed and said that they would join them at dinner. The Acolytes and Champions left and went off to do their duties, not caring anymore if their folks were watching them or not. It wasn't like they could do anything anymore to change some of the more stubborn ones minds. Although Eunice did hand her social worker the packet she had found this morning. Once more the caretakers observed their children some seeing for the first time who their children really were.

A few hours later it was dinner time and they had all gathered together to share the meal. An extra table had to be brought in because Hestia and Hera's tables had been built for only six people. Everyone was trying to act normal, but the demigods kept glancing at the adults, not use to seeing people their age in the camp.

Halfway through the meal, the Chiron stood up, calling everyone's attention. "Campers and guests, today has been unlike any other in camp history. Tomorrow our brave questers, Phoebus, Leo, and Calypso will start the journey to reclaim the Oracle network. Their journey will not be easy, our enemy the Trimvarient have a great advantage over us. We have already seen the length one member, Emperor Nero, has gone to destroy us. The battle against the Colossus proved that despite this advantage, by working together, we have a chance to win this war. While our questors are securing the network, the rest of us here will continue to prepare for attacks and finish the chronicles that our Acolytes have started. They may contain a clue to help us."

Everyone shouted and cheered. There was no way they would let Chiron down. As the cheers died down, the demigods turned their attention to the Acolytes and Champions. The anticipation was building up and several of the campers were trying not to let their abilities get out of control.

"As you know today we've had some guests visiting us, courtesy of Hera who bent the rules to allow the families of our beloved Acolytes and Champions, to be the first mortal parents to see the wonder of Camp Half-Blood. I hope that you have enjoyed your time here. After observing your children's lives here; it is my hope that you'll allow them to stay. Ultimately, the choice falls to you. Acolytes please stand up along with your families."

They all did, some more eager than others. Each Acolyte stood in front of their parents/guardian, waiting to hear if they were staying or if some had changed their mind and wanted to take them away. at the next table the Champions tapped the table anxiously.

Chiron asked the Freemans to step forward and speak about what they had decided. Mr. Freeman started to speak. "Today was a special day. From what my wife and I have observed, you have created a community and your own kinship group. The fact that you have allowed our son and his friends here, shows that you are willing to extend that kinship to anyone who comes here."

"Seeing how much he's grown and become a wise leader, we both feel that the best place for our son right now is here. He is welcome to stay here and continue his education until he graduates." Chui smiled and thanked his father for letting him stay.

Heather stood up next as her parents admitted this camp was not as advertised, they recognized how important Heather's duties were. She played a vital role in helping the family stick together and had made wonderful friends. They agreed to let her stay as long as she came home for two months during the summer and visited during breaks. That was good enough for her.

Ichabod's parents didn't waste time agree that their son had shown he was capable of taking care of himself and that living here was a dream come true. They acknowledge their son and his pet fit right in and that he could stay. After all everyone cabin needed a mascot. Iggy and Xylon jumped in joy upon hearing that.

Sidonia hung her head when it was her turn. She knew her father wouldn't let her stay. Her mom had said she was okay with her staying here, but the decision was ultimately her father's as he was head of the family.

"Sidonia, I allowed you to come here because I believed you would get over your shyness and become a productive member in our family and community at large. Being Conservative, means applying theology and some science into each situation to make the best decision for everyone." He paused for a minute as he studied his daughter. She looked so defeated. "While I'm not completely comfortable with the situation, your mother has convinced me that for now, this is your home and that you belong here. We will not be taking you home for now. That may change in the future."

Sidonia didn't care at the moment what he said, she was being allowed to stay and continue her journey of becoming a more confident, happy, young lady. She could convince her father at another time that he couldn't ever make her stop coming here.

Eunice case was rather unique. Mrs. Brookfield had been put in a tight situation. She had been set on taking Eunice back to Montana and finding a good psychiatrist to rid her charge's mind of this place. However, there was a legal tangle in that.

The packet had contained adoption documents that had been filled out and properly processed. One Hestia Olympus agreed to adopt Eunice as a godchild with shared custody with the girl's godfather Chiron. The documents were binding. Since she couldn't protest the adoption on the grounds that the people mentioned where a goddess and a centaur without sounding crazy she had no choice in the matter. Like it or not she had to let Eunice stay. She would never admit it out loud, but she was happy for Eunice.

Maui and Leilani were both given permission to stay by their parents as long as they continued to watch out for one another. They agreed and promised they would come back home to visit once the situation had been resolved.

Uma's parents had agreed to let their daughter stay and she vowed to keep her promise so there was no problem there. Wyatt of course always had the support of his grandparents who knew better than anyone a good adventure helped mold a person. Tino's mom reassured her son one more time that she would be fine and that they would see each other again soon. Tino relaxed after that and happily announced he would be staying.

Now the last two were the trickiest because of the parents' personalities. The Choi's had done some hard thinking as well as took in account Vitas life here. As much as they hated to admit it, Vitas was half American and if they continued to push traditions on him, traditions he would follow, but never would be happy, one day they might lose their son forever. They agreed to let Vitas stay and continue his education with the same stipulation he would visit and continue to pursue academic success.

The Frankfurt's stood up and looked at the angry expression on their daughter's face. After Orlanda's blunt truth and speaking to several of her friends and even Chiron, they had been forced to see the truth in front of them. They had been overprotective and slightly ashamed of their daughter's blindness. The truth was, they really didn't know who Orlanda was and they had never put in enough effort to learn. They had listened to the doctors and her teachers, but refused to budge on their beliefs.

"Orlanda, we have a lot to apologize for. We've been so busy trying to protect you, we never let you be yourself. All we saw was the life you never could have instead of paying attention to the life you are living. Can we start over?" Mrs. Frankfurt asked kindly.

Orlanda bit her lip before asking if that meant they would let her stay. When both her parents said yes, she hugged them tightly. She was ready to start over with them and show them the life she had made for herself here. The noise of everyone cheering that their favorite mortal campers would be staying barely reached her ears.

About an hour later the parents/guardians had gathered their things preparing to pass through the barrier and back to the "real world". It unsure what they would remember once they passed through the barrier and left the area. The only thing they could do was promise they keep trying to communicate and that they'd be on their guard against any twilight emperors coming after them. With a final goodbye they crossed the barrier and left heading for their homes.

"You think they'll remember anything from this visit?" Vitas asked nervously.

"I don't know honestly. If they even remember a little bit that will be enough for all of us I think," Iggy told the group honestly. They all nodded. A huge weight had been lifted off them now that their parents knew the truth. It had set them free of any lingering guilt for not admitting everything earlier.

Six months had changed them all. They were no longer twelve unseasoned mortal kids. They were accomplished Acolytes and Champions. Each of them had become a master of their domain. Each of them had particular set of skills that made them stronger. Under Hestia and Hera's guidance they would thrive and lead a new age for Camp Half-Blood, one that could survive without its blessed campers.