The transition through the shadow portal was disorienting, as if Avon had been plunged into a world of swirling darkness. He felt a strange sensation, as if his body was being stretched and compressed at the same time. Moments later, he stumbled out onto solid ground, blinking against the sudden brightness of the sun.
Looking around, Avon realized he was no longer in the hospital room. Tall pine trees surrounded them, their needles casting dappled shadows on the forest floor. The air was crisp and carried the scent of pine. Mia stood beside him, her expression serious.
"Welcome to Camp Half-Blood," she said.
Avon's eyes widened as he took in the scene. The camp was nestled in a clearing, with cabins scattered around. Each cabin seemed to be unique, representing different gods from Greek mythology. Demigods, like Avon, milled about, some practicing archery, others engaged in sword fights, and a few sitting under the trees, reading ancient scrolls.
Mia led Avon through the camp, attracting curious glances from the other demigods. They passed by a sign that read 'Hermes Cabin,' and Avon couldn't help but feel a mix of awe and disbelief.
As they walked, Mia explained more about the world he had just entered. The Titans, ancient beings imprisoned by the gods, were stirring once again. Prophecies spoke of a demigod who would play a pivotal role in the impending conflict, and it seemed that Avon was that demigod.
"Your arrival was foretold," Mia said. "The manticore was sent by the Titans to test you. They fear the power you possess, the potential to either save or destroy Olympus."
Avon's mind was a whirlwind of emotions. He thought of his mom, of Jake, and the life he had left behind. But Mia's words resonated with a truth he couldn't deny.
As they reached the center of the camp, a tall figure emerged from one of the larger cabins. Dressed in celestial bronze armor, a girl with auburn hair and stormy gray eyes approached. She carried an air of authority that made the other demigods around her straighten.
"Mia, who is this?" she asked, her gaze fixed on Avon.
"Thalia, meet Avon," Mia said. "He's a son of Hermes and needs a place here."
Thalia studied Avon for a moment before nodding. "Welcome to Camp Half-Blood, Avon. We'll need to get you settled and assess your abilities."
Over the following days, Avon immersed himself in the routines of the camp. He discovered the extent of his powers—sprinting with uncanny speed, connecting with animals, and manipulating small objects with his mind. The caduceus, his newfound weapon, became an extension of himself as he trained with it.
Thalia became his guide, explaining the dynamics of the camp and the looming threat of the Titans. Avon learned about the gods, their squabbles, and the delicate balance that kept Olympus from falling into chaos.
One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the camp, Mia sought Avon out.
"Your training is crucial, Avon," she said. "But you also need to understand the significance of your lineage. Hermes, your father, is the messenger of the gods. As his son, you carry a unique responsibility."
Avon nodded, absorbing the weight of his destiny. Mia continued, "The Titans won't rest until they've brought Olympus to its knees. You're a key player in this, Avon. Embrace your heritage, and you might just tip the scales in favor of the gods."
The night air hung heavy with the weight of impending battles, and Avon knew he stood at the threshold of a destiny he couldn't escape.
As the stars glittered above Camp Half-Blood, he steeled himself for the challenges that lay ahead—the trials of a demigod destined to shape the fate of Olympus.