Alice Humphrey:

Alice stood in between the rejects of the world. Who were ready to lose everything during this fight and felt right at home. Somehow she'd ever been convinced Julia, Mark, and Cameron to join her in setting up a barricade with Thalia as their leader. Now they stood around heat rolling off their bodies. With sweat glistening off of their heads. They'd started in the early morning hours attempting to get the most out of what little time they had to build. Time seemed to pass at a crawl as they built. Lifting anything they could carry and placing it where they were directed.
Groaning she started to wish she picked an easier job. Though her being herself she figured I can do anything they can do even if it seems physically impossible. Dumb thought process but she only realized that afterward. Now that she was facing the consequences .Two arms from behind her reached out and started to help push.

Alice turned to thank whoever helped her to see a familiar redhead. "Oh it's the redhead who ditched me." She mumbled

"I have a name." The annoying redhead responded

Alice's eyes narrowed as she let out a breath "And why would I care?" She said turning to walk away

The redhead follows close behind even though she seemed to wince with each step. "Look I wouldn't be here if my friend didn't insist I talk to you."

Rolling her eyes she slowed down she may not like her but she wasn't angry enough to cause the girl pain. "Fine what's your name?"

"Ezra." Came her response

Turning to face her fully "Now that's done you can go and bother someone else." She said folding her arms.

Ezra ran a hand through her curly locks. Red curly messy locks that seemed almost a fiery orange up close.

'I wonder if her hair gets tangled easily and if so is it easy to deal with, maybe it is and if so would she'll let me braid it. It looks quite soft' Alice's thoughts were interrupted by said girl. "Look I came to ask since you helped us before and I'm not in the best shape if you maybe—" her voice getting lower "help me look after my idiot freckles friend."

Shaking her head slightly to get rid of those thoughts she unfolded her arms. As she we watched the girl fidget in front of her. 'It must have taken her a lot to just ask a stranger for help' she thought. "Okay"

Ezra looked up and blinked "okay as in you'll help?"

"Yes I'll help." Alice said turning back around moving to walk away. Just as she took a step forward she felt a firm grip on her wrist. Stopping her in her tracks letting out an exasperated breath she waited for whatever Ezra had to say.

Which took longer than it needed to if she was honest. 'If this girl don't hurry up—' her thoughts were once again interrupted. "Thank you." Was said in an even softer voice that she had to strain to hear it, before she felt the grip loosen then let go.
.....
Loud ringing throbbed inside her head, blocking out all other noise. The last thing she remembered being blown off her feet then everything going dark. Alice rolled onto her stomach arms stretching out. Allowing her hand to grasp at the ground under her. Attempting to get her bearings. As her fingers dug into the rubble from the blast. Opening her eyes she blinked her eyes repeatedly attempting to chase away spots from her vision. On impulse she brought up a hand to her eyes and began to run them. In the end only rubbing dust into her eyes.

"Damn!" Alice hissed "Dumb move." She mumbled

Opening her eyes again she squinted her eyes. Attempting to see through the thick layer of dust. Which Seemed to have covered everything like a blanket. Swiveling her head from the left to right she attempted to make out if anything was near her. Placing her arms under her body she pushed herself onto her back once more. Soon sitting up to be met with another loud bang and bright light.
The light seemed to cover the whole area before fading.
Blinking profusely she wobbled to her feet. Leaning on a wall waiting for her vision to adjust once more. Not attempting to wipe at her eyes to chase away the spots that danced across her eyelids when she closed them. As the spots finally disappeared another blast of light took its place. This time rubble from the building she leaned on accompanied it. Lifting her arms above her head as pieces varying in size rained down on her. In response the dust that had already settled was back in the air. Choking the air with small rocky particles that she breathed in. Immediately coughing it all back up. Eventually spitting out a grey glob that was accompanied by another fit of coughing. Her eyes beginning to water from the lack of oxygen.
After it passed Alice slowly shuffled forward hands in front of her grasping at air. Not daring to lift her feet off the ground. Stopping as her foot made contact with something. Standing she listened to whatever skidded to a stop before glancing down at the rubble again.
Alice knew it wasn't a brick since it didn't leave her toe throbbing. Bending down she grazed her hand over rubble feeling for whatever she came into contact with. When her hand finally came into contact with something she felt a hand. In a matter of seconds the hand squeezed hers. Falling onto her knees she began to close her way through the rubble. Unearthing whoever as quickly as she could fingers stinging from the rubbles sharp edges. Once she could see the torso and up she pulled them up and out of the rubble.

Leaning her head against her lap she moved hair out of the freckled girls face. "This must be the freckled idiot." She said aloud waiting patiently for the girl to stir. Entertaining herself by playing with freckles.

Stirring just a bit "This freckled idiot has a name and it's Feyre." She groaned out propping herself up

Raising an eyebrow at the girls raspy but melodic voice. "Take your time you don't want to get lightheaded from moving to fast."

Feyre nodded in response before laying her head down once more.
.....
Alice continued on leaving Feyre after a short debate on what they should do. Alice now stood at the barricade that had a hole in it.
That was blown clean through the sides still smoking. The dust wasn't as thick at this spot so Alice could now clearly see where the light was coming from. What greeted her was chaos. People fighting close enough to the barricade that she could hear the grunts, scrams, and yells of those fighting.
Though it was still far enough away from her to not see the faces of those fighting. Leaning against the edge of the barricade as yet another blast shook everything around her. As the shaking stopped it started up again as more rubbled fell. This time she ducked out of the hole of the barricade. The noise of fighting slightly louder. Arrows soaring through the air in any direction. One Soared directly towards her head implanting it in the spot where she was standing. If not for the person who grabbed her turning around and dusting herself off. Alice was greeted with her shortest teammate.

"Thanks for the save." She said turning back towards the fight.

In response Cameron hummed before pulling her back into the hole. Where the rest of the team stood waiting.

Looking at them all over Alice concluded that no one was seriously hurt. Well at least from what she could see. She contemplated ordering them to strip so she could check them but thought better of it. "So what's the plan?"

"Other than getting killed." Julia shrugged "No clue."

Mark simply raised an eyebrow at Julia their little groups undisputed leader.

Glancing through the hole searching for their black haired leader. "Has anyone seen our leader?"

"Thalia rushed out when she realized we were under attack." Julia answered

"Comforting to know that our stupidly heroic—" Alice was cut off by yet another blast. Dust again flying in the air Alice breathed in some more dust before bending over in a coughing fit.

Rushing to her side Mark began to pat her on the back. Soon turning those pats into rubbing circles with his palm.

Holding up a hand she straightened up. "I'm good."

The others looked at her skeptically before nodding.

"As I was saying." She continued "Stupidly heroic Thalia is in the midst of that mess." Her hand pointing behind her.

"Yes." Came Cameron's simple reply as Mark nodded his head.

Before she answered another blast was heard. Snapping her head towards the noise she saw. Thalia dancing in-between weapons and shields. Striking anyone that was in her path. Lighting danced in her wake zapping those that were too close.

Staring in awe Alice knew her mouth was open.

"Let's go help her." Julia ordered picking up a discarded sword and shield.

Alice clamped her mouth shut at this "Hold up what?"

Julia gave her the 'Don't act dumb' look before heading out of the hole. Mark and Cameron following close behind without any complaint.

Alice called after them "Can we talk about this!" Not receiving a response she groaned picking up the nearest discarded sword and running after them.

Cameron, Mark, and Julia weren't anywhere to be seen when she ran out of the hole. Shaking her head she rushed into the fray of bodies striking the first Centurian she saw. Taking them by surprise she cut them down easily. Moving on to her next target she swung once more. This time being met with a block then a punch to her stomach. Grunting she struck out with her leg aiming to unbalance her opponent.
Without hesitation she brought her sword down again.
This time with her weight behind her blade she struck with a downward arc. Using her other hand she punched her opponent square in the face. Knocking them on the ground before using her foot to knock them unconscious. It worked like a charm her opponent went limp without so much as a struggle. Reaching down she picked up the Centurion's blade. Then moving rushing into the fray of bodies again.
......
Alice's breaths came out in ragged Huff's everything seems to ache. Arms and legs strained from all the fighting. Lungs working overtime to get in air. Heart pounding as she barely does yet another arrow. As she got closer to Thalia she noticed just how many enemy's the girl seemed to fend off by herself. Which gave her the energy to continue to take down Centurian after Centurian. Bringing up both arms she blocked an incoming blow from a spear.
Dropping the blade in her left hand she grabbed the head of the spear. Gripping it's blade as tight as she could, before using the other blade to strike at the Centurion who'd just attempted to run her through. Wincing as the spear twisted painfully in her palm as the Centurion tried to pull it free. Gritting her teeth she pulled the spear forward driving her sword through the Centurions stomach.
Pulling the blade backwards she let the Centurions fall at her feet. Flipping the spear so she held it correctly she moved on. As she drove yet another enemy through as another ballista fired at the crumbling barricade. Turning her head she watched as the barricade shook once more. Turning back towards the fighting she searched for the Ballista's. Spotting them she quickly contemplated if she'd be able to sabotage at least one. Glancing back at Thalia she figured she'd be able to hold her own a little longer. So she turned towards the opposite direction and began to fight her way through. To shorten the time it took to get there she just avoided fighting she dodged anyone she could.

She quickly skidded around yet another outstretched blade. "Damnit give me a break!" she mumbled using her spear to jab at another person in her way.

Alice wondered if she looked like a chicken running with its head cut off. As she jerked and weaved around weapons. If she did she hoped the Gods were enjoying the show. Since it seemed they only liked to watch their children suffer in the first place. As she jabbed yet another Centurion as she sped past. Skidding to a halt at the now larger than life ballista aimed at what was left of the Barricade.

"Huge isn't it." A voice chirped beside her

In her peripheral vision she saw red hair. Turning weapon raised she threw the spear behind the familiar electric eyed Blackett. "Yes it's huge."

Alice rushed to retrieve her spear before meeting another sword with hers. Jabbing forward with the spear firmly in her stinging hand. Gritting her teeth she hissed before kicking her opponent to the ground. Then stabbing the spear in their leg. A screamed pain soon following.

"Brutal much." The Thalia turned from her now limp opponent.

"What does it matter." Alice soon please pulled the spear out before kicking them in the head. Watching her opponent go limp then turning to jab at another.

She shook her head countering another blow. "You know it's not their fault right?"

Alice grunted in response before pushing up against the sword pressing down on her blade.

"What I mean is their fighting on orders from someone horrible—" she cuts herself off to knock the blade out of her opponents hand. "What I mean is maybe they don't want to fight."

"Yeah well they should lay down their weapons then" she snapped stabbing the spear into her enemy's foot. Soon using the pommel of her sword to knock them unconscious.

"Nothing's that easy." Was all the response she got

"Never is" Alice grumbles as Centurions begin to close in on the two.

"Agreed" Thalia chimes stepping closer to Alice

Both take steps back as Centurions start to form a circle around them. Ending up bumping backs as the circle gets tighter.

Glancing around Alice gulps "Well fearless leader why are you over here?"

"Ballista" came her response "And I'm not fearless just pissed."

"Alright then we had the small idea." She paused to jab at the circle "Are you ready—"

"As I'll ever be." Came Thalia's reply as she moved forward striking one Centurion down. Another quickly taking their place as if the one before adding fall.

Alice brought her sword down into another arc. Barely having room to dodge the blade of another Centurion. That came out of nowhere ready to strike her down. Nudging Thalia out of the way she swung widely grazing the shield of another.

"Their to close." Alice grumbled pushing forward as much as she could.

Smirking Thalia lifted up her sword and pointed it towards the closet Centurions. Who were quickly struck by lightning.

Alice rushed forward dispatching those closest to the strike. "That works."

Turning for an answer only to see Thalia already meeting the next wave of Centurions head on. It was like watching a blue streak flash through a sea of grey and gold. If she could Alice would stand there just watching in awe. Shaking herself out of her daze she rushed after Thalia to the waiting line of Ballista. Sprinting forward Alice secured her sword to her belt as she weaved haphazardly behind Thalia. Slowing she broke the spear in half in one fluid motion. Then secured it firmly behind her back. Now with Her hands free she began to run at full speed.
......
Standing less than a couple of feet away Alice had to admit that the Ballista were huge and well made. If she were a child of Hespausteses she's be marveling over the intricate use of bronze. Thalia had again disappeared which didn't surprise Alice. After all if she saw fit she'd go off and try to do it all on her own.
Centurions that were firing the Ballista had already been dispatched. Which she greatly appreciated since she wasn't in the best fighting shape. Standing under one of the Ballista she glanced at its underbelly looking for a weakness. Most would consider getting rid of the weapons a waste. Which she did consider but seeing as they barely had any able bodied fighters left. It would be wiser to destroy the work of art.
Glancing by the front line of Ballista she spotted canisters of Greek fire. Jogging over she picked up a jar gingerly carefully not to drop it. A plan started to form in her head. Smiling to herself she grabbed the crate and set to work.

"I've always wondered what happens when Greek fire meets bronze shrapnel." Alice mumbled rigging the last ballista.

Stepping back she admired her handiwork which was just right for what she was getting ready to do. Now she just needed something to break the first canister. Turning her head eyes searching for The Thalia. Not spotting her she shrugged and pulled out the broken spear and sword.
Taking a step back she struck the blades together to sharpen what was left of the spear. Rolling her shoulder she measured the distance. Figuring it was far enough she threw what was left of the spear breaking the canister. A loud boom was accompanied by a blast that carried her backwards. Effectively taking all air out of her lungs.

Alice lifted her head "Pyrotechnics checked off my bucket list..." before letting it drop.

Feyre Azure:

When they arrived back, the group was met by a large crowd. They were the last team to reenter the chamber and managed to sustain the least amount of injuries. Once they walked in, different people approached their survivors offering food, clean clothes, and escorts away from the chamber. Soon Feyre and her team found themselves in the middle. The controlled chaos was satisfying for her to see. To her left was a station set up. It seemed to be run by a tailor who had other tailors in her team to fix, alter, and create clothes for the survivors. In front of her was a station set u for rations. Hearing the low rumble in her stomach soon made her realize how long it was since her last meal. To her right they were giving out pillows and blankets. There were people from each station within the crowd bombarding people with questions, resources, and comfort.
"I wonder how long this took?" Fey jumped when she saw Luis at her side. He was a lot taller than she remembered. When he ran his fingers through his hair she was surprised to see no dirt or dust. If she never got a closer look while they were gone, she would've swore that his hair was brown.
"People here are known to be self sufficient." Kara stood next to Luis. Blaire stood behind Kara. Her cheeks tinged with embarrassment. Fey heard her mumble how embarrassed she was.
'I can't believe how useless I was.'
"You know a bit about everything huh." Luis glanced at Kara only to get a smile in return. "No, just an observation." Kara stepped out and grabbed Blaire.
"I'm gonna see if they have anything else for her to wear that doesn't smell like strange memories, near life or death situations, or moldy cheese. Don't do anything dangerous while we're gone." The two of them watched her walked away. Kara's remark left Fey confused. Once she looked at Luis she could tell he felt the same confusion.
"Dangerous?" Fey asked. Luis shrugged. The two of them looked at each other before beginning to walk off.
Even though they were in the chamber, it was easy for Fey to find another exit. All she had to do was follow the terrible smell. Her nose flared as she glanced around. When her eyes drifted to Luis she saw him with his hands in his pockets. He was looking around as well but specifically he watched the families. The ones that were together were lucky to have one another. Fey didn't realise how much she missed home until she saw the father holding his wife and kids. Their chests rose and fell together as the father soothed their crying with calm words and a warm touch. She put her hands together remembering her mother. Her soft words, her warm embrace. Fey looked up at Luis who had the same longing in his eyes.
"You miss home too?" Luis looked down at her startled. He sighed, letting his fingers find their way into his hair again.
"Kinda." He kicked up dust before facing Feyre again. "I miss my family more than I miss home." Luis started walking in the opposite direction away from the family. She saw him sneak another look before looking forward. Only when Feyre realised that he wasn't stopping, did she run after him. He was looking straight ahead as she trailed him. Feyre's body shook as she stopped abruptly. A flood of refugees blocked her way. She knew he wasn't going to turn back. Did he even notice she was gone? That question would remain unanswered as Fey could hear the sound of faint hooves. Once she realised the sound was getting louder, she quickly turned around assuming a fighting position. When the sound stopped, she was met by a fawn. He was

taller than she anticipated. It was like a little kid seeing something new for the first time. Fey was in awe for she had never seen one before. Thinking about the family she saw before, she began to wonder about the mother. There was this thing about Fawns that she couldn't fully remember. It wasn't until he was waving in her face did she snap out of her thoughts.
"Hey." He looked out of breath. "Are you freckles?" Fey was taken off guard. "Freckles?" "Yeah freckles." He responded. "Um." He looked down as if he was trying to remember something. "Did you find her Brett?" Feyre jumped at the man behind her almost running into Brett. He was tall and well built. He reminded Fey of a giant in one of the stories her mom told her as a kid. Looking up she could see the stubble on his chin and the sweat from his body.
'Seriously, do they not have showers set up? Then again we're near sewer water'
"I think. Yo Nick, do me a favor and do the thing she said to do to check." Fey looked at Brett. Then back at Nick.
Then back at Brett.
Then back at Nick.
She stepped back so she wouldn't run into them and slowly walked away. Fey couldn't think of another situation at that her so confused and uncomfortable.
"Eep!" She jumped when Nick found his way in front of her. He sighed before stepping closer. He pressed his finger against her nose for a second and stepped back. As soon as Nick removed his finger Fey's nose began to twitch. She took in two breaths hoping to stall her reaction but was unsuccessful as she sneezed twice.
Yes, when she is booped, she sneezes. She looked at Nick questionably as he nodded to Brett. "I'm sorry this was weird but Ezra told us to do it." ​'Of course she did'
"Where is she?" Fey said with a faint smile. "If she wants to mess with me tell her I'm here." She stopped herself. "Actually no, don't tell her." She moved closer to them. "Do you wanna help me get her back? Look, all we have to do is tickle her feet and-"
It didn't take time for Fey to realize there was something more sinister to the situation. Nothing about their demeanor seemed lighthearted and playful.
"Ezra-" The small sound his hooves made when Brett shifted is position made Fey worry. "Ezra got injured." "How bad?" Her voice became desperate. It was light and soft for she was trying so hard not to choke up and cry. The man and the fawn looked at each other before Fey let out a small cry.
................
"She's in here."
Fey ran in and nearly screamed at what she saw. Her side was dark. She couldn't tell if the wound was still there or if they already stitched her up. Her shirt was ripped and it almost looked as if it was burned. There was a bandage around her ankle and a mask on her face. Everything stopped. Fey felt a ringing in her ear as her chest grew heavier. She was brought back to reality by a warm touch on her back. She looked to see a dark skinned girl about her height. Her natural hair was pulled back and her eyes were dark and warm.
"They said she would be okay." She walked Fey over to Ezra. "There was an incident in the town square. She got injured by a centurie. When we found her-"
"​You left her?!" ​Fey remembered how she was forced to leave Blaire and Luis. Even though she knew she didn't know the situation, she could still feel her blood boil underneath her skin.

She looked up at the girl. She could tell she was lost for words. She didn't meet Fey's eyes and stood up hesitantly.
"I'll leave you with her." Fey watched as she left. Brett and Nick both waited before leaving her alone with her friend. She waited in hopes that Ezra would wake up, but she never did. She watched as her chest rose and fell. She got up from where she was and sat on the floor. As she laid her back against the wall, she couldn't help but notice how cool it was. She expected it but decided to put up with it anyway. She could still see Ezra's chest as she drifted off to sleep.
... ... ... . ... ..
When Fey blinked she began to stretch. She didn't realize she fell asleep until she saw how bright it was in the room. She stood up to see Ezra awake. She was holding someone's wrist. "Do you think you could let me go?"
"Not until you tell me why you're here you creep!"
"Erzy!" Feyre smiled. She looked at her friend. Seeing the life restored in her green eyes made Fey feel at ease.
"Morning. Hey, do me a favor and pass me my dagger over there." Fey looked over and saw Ezra's dagger in the doorway. "How did it get over-" When she looked over she realised who it was she grabbed. Luis stood to Ezra's left. She had a firm grip on his wrist but Luis wasn't resisting. He locked eyes with Fey and for a second before they both looked away.
"Kara wasn't too happy when she found out I left you." Fey pulled Ezra's dagger out the wall. "Did she chew you out?" Fey asked with a chuckle. Luis used his free hand to rub the back of his neck. "No, thankfully."
"Fey, do you know this creep?" "I told you I'm not a creep." Fey nodded. "We were on a team together." Ezra looked at the two of them before finally letting Luis go. "I guess he was looking for you."
"Yes I was." Luis spoke in a matter of fact way. "Kara filled out a report on the mission. They're gonna be wary of the temple and make sure the Praetors haven't planted anymore spies." Luis' hand went to his hair. "Or something." Fey couldn't help but notice Luis' shift in character. Fey remembered how big his eyes went went he saw the different families.
Maybe
"Knock knock."
Fey looked up to see Kara in the door way. Her eyes went soft when she met Fey's eyes. It was like she didn't have to put on an act anymore.
"You two might wanna come out. They're gonna make an announcement." Fey nodded. "Yes ma'am!" She said with a salute. Kara's lips curled before she walked away.
"I'll come back later Ezy. I gotta-" When Fey looked at her friend, it looked as if she was mesmerized by the doorway. Fey shook her head with a smile. She knew what that meant. "Introduce me?" Ezra looked hopefully as Fey began to walk out. "Definitely."
......... .
Fey walked with Luis into the crowd. A man stood in the center on a platform. The whispers to her were melodic. She sighed thinking about her ukulele. The nylon on her fingers was something she didn't realise she missed. Writing songs under her tree or singing the ones that came on the radio were things she enjoyed. All she needed was the right chord progression. To

her dismay, the melody soon stopped as everyone became quiet to hear the announcement that was being made.
"The praetors are moving. We must resist now before the mortal world is gone." The chatter began once more as people began to agree with him. "We ask that only if you're able to fight, that you aid us in holding down the main roads. We will have you split into teams. Each team will be lead by one if the Grace's. There's Jason Grace." He was to the man's left. "And Thalia." She was to the man's right.
"Siblings." Fey thought out loud.
"I will leave it to you to decide where you'll go. You can talk to them and make your final decision today or tomorrow. We move out tomorrow afternoon." The man stepped off the podium leaving the crowd in silence. Only when someone went to talk to Thalia, did the entire crowd come back to life. The room was instantly split into two groups. Fey and Luis still stood in the middle. Fey went towards Jason while Luis walked to Thalia.
To Fey, Jason looked calm and collected. While he spoke he seemed focused on the goal. He appeared level headed.
Wanting to weigh her options, Fey went to Thalia's side. When listening to her speak she couldn't help but notice that she was louder than her brother. She spoke clearly and animatedly with her hands. Thalia even proudly stepped on the podium.
There was something about Thalia that seemed more commanding. Fey didn't know why but she was always drawn to strong personalities. When Thalia asked who was with her, Fey cheered with everyone else.
....
Fey was dressed in a dark shirt and cargo pants she was given. She walked out with Ezra who was tying her hair behind her back.
"Are you sure you're up for this?" Ezra met Fey's worried look with a smile. "Don't worry Fey. I'll be fine. They said I could move around. I should be fine." The two friends walked to the far end of the chamber. When Fey saw Luis she stepped a bit faster. Kara and Blaire chose to follow Jason. As much as she wanted to fight with them she knew she wouldn't get the chance to. Thalia stepped out with light leather armour. Her brown hair was tied behind her. She eyed all of her recruits and stepped towards the opening of the chamber.
"Let's move out."
.......................................................
The barricade was set up before a large open street. Once they got there, Thalia immediately told everyone to use the rubble and demolished buildings. Regardless of their origins, the building pieces somehow made a firm wall. Like puzzle pieces the rubble stayed. They made a half circle so they'd be covered on all sides. Fey found a spot and took out her new bow. She ran her fingers across the ceder.
Nothing less from a legacy of Hephaestus
Luis set his things down next to her. He pulled out a spear and checked the metal. Fey tapped his shoulder and he turned around. "Thanks for the bow. It's really nice." Luis smiled. "No problem. It's nothing much, but I'm glad you like it." Luis walked away. There were people who were still finding different items to improve the barricade. Fey grabbed a piece of a shelf and proceed to follow him.

...... .. . . . .
An explosion sent Fey flying. The impact of the strange ammo on the ground sent her straight into a broken building. The impact left her both winded and wounded. Fey blindly groped for her bow before debris rained down on her. Completely covered she tried to wiggle herself out only to no avail. Fey felt a nudge at her side before she attempted to reach her hand out and grab whatever it was. When she felt someone grab it. A jolt went through her body as she tried to pull against the arm in order to pull herself up.
"Ezra I'm so glad-"
To Fey's surprise it was Thalia who pulled her up. Ezra wasn't too far behind. Fey let out a sigh thankful that her friend wasn't injured again.
"Thank you." Fey coughed after breathing in so much dust. "What should we do next Thalia?" She soon let go of Fey's hand picking up her weapon once more.
"I'm running in to get the Captain, leader, or whatever bullshit title they have. There's not a lot of people here that are left. Most didn't care or were out of it. There are some who survived and others who died. There's no way I'm going out without a fight. There's nothing left for you to guard so there's no use staying here." Thalia turned around and ran into the crowd. Those who were fighting were losing. Those who weren't were already dead. Fey stared at the sight before her eyes and fell to her knees. The ringing in her ears refused to cease and the tears soon rushed to her eyes. Fey was scared. It was Ezra who came to her side to pull her up. She grabbed her hand and they ran closer to the chaos. The two stopped in front of a piece of the barricade before Ezra looked around again. The ringing didn't stop as Fey struggled to understand what Ezra was saying. It wasn't until Ezra ran to one of the dead bodies did Fey understand what she was doing. Ezra handed Fey a sword and a shield.
"Remember."
This was the only thing Ezra said to her before she stood up and rushed in. When Fey saw her move, her feet moved before her mind could process and went after her. Fey was clumsy with a sword and immediately went on the defense when a centurie swung at her. She held up the shield blocking the blow. Fey swung her sword but missed as she turned on the ball of her foot. She had no control of the weapon and immediately held up the shield again. To her surprise the Centurie stopped mid swing. Blood seeped through their uniform before they fell to the ground. "Are you okay?"
Luis appeared behind him swing in his spear to get the blood off. Fey didn't realize how accustomed her nose was to the smell until that moment. Fey moved next to him. She was so used to fighting from a distance hand to hand or regular combat felt foreign. Fey wanted to hug him but knew that would earn her a slap on the wrist from Ezra.
'Time and place, Fey. Time and place.'
Fey prayed that Ezra found Thalia. She hated to leave her but she knew this time she had to. Fey and Luis looked at each other and nodded. They would move together.

Nicole Dabria:

Nic stood near Thalia Grace, the Thalia Grace. If they weren't a few breathes away from death, she might have asked for an autograph, but now was not the time. She had felt an obligation to Diana, the only one of the gods or goddesses to ever help her, to stand with what was left of her hunters and fight for the city, even if it meant laying down her own life. Looking around, Nic could tell that she was one of a few sane ones left, but perhaps that was a good thing, nutty kids who didn't think they had anything to lose could sometimes win a war.
She peeked over the top of their barricade at the enemy, waiting down at the other end of the road with long range firearms that could easily destroy them in few shots, but both sides were frightened animals backed into corners, and no one knew what they would do to survive. She toyed with her bracelet, spinning it around her wrist and taking it off, turning it into a bow before turning it back into a bracelet to put back on; it wasn't that she was afraid to die, no. It was the waiting. The bubbling in her stomach, the cold gripping her heart, the nagging in th back of her head of so many things left undone, and the light fighting to stay in her core. She never did get to see Cassie and Auntie again, but she had heard through the grapevine that they had escaped so they were safe, for now.
Glancing at their leader, Nic could tell that Thalia didn't like the wait either. Unlike herself, Thalia did not toy with anything, not her bow or her headdress, not her jacket nor her hair, instead, she gazed out across the sea of people she was in charge of. Her gaze unmoving, unblinking, and, more than anything, tired. This would be her third war to fight in, she'd already lost so many and didn't want to lose anymore, but that's not the way the gods played their games. Their demigod 'heroes' were just pawns on the chess board, the first to go into the battle and gain coverage, but always the first to fall. Unknown to Nic, she and Thalia shared a thought; they didn't want to lose their loved ones today, and they didn't want to die at the hands of some pyscho bitch.
Thalia looked for what was left of her hunters, gesturing for them to come close and listen, luckily for Nic, there were perks to always having a bow on hand. She listened close, wide eyes and racing heart, as Thalia told the hunters her plan for their battle, most of the hunters were to stay and hold the barricade down, but some were to form a small group, led by Thalia, and attempt to take their enemy by surprise. Even just a small one might be enough to throw them off and help them to gain leverage in the war, but there was a large risk to it, perhaps that was why so many hunters seemed uncertain. In some, hope seemed to shine from within them, fires being fed kindling, but in others, their sparks only seemed to die. Some had been hunters for centuries while others were new to being immortal, and wanted to see what the future held, dying was likely not on their bucket lists at the moment.
Nic silently followed Thalia's small group of hunters from the barricade, blending in seamlessly with the others, and helped to take out what little there were for threats on their way to possible death or victory. When they sought refuge behind one of the crumbing buildings on the road, she leaned against the wall and touched the purple scarf tied around her right wrist. She rolled the no longer soft, clean fabric between her fingers, flinching when she felt the ripped area where strings hung loose, swaying with the breeze like tree branches that were finally free to touch the light, she hoped Luis shared in their freedom.
Minutes passed though they felt more like hours, the hunters became more restless with the time and even Thalia seemed to fidget more than normal.
What are they waiting for? Nic thought, watching as some began to sharpen weapons to prepare for battle, others used another hunter as a pillow and attempted to nap even with an impending battle, but very few stayed around Thalia to watch the other end of the road. The weapons of destruction that could level more than a city block if they weren't careful, weapons that could end them all.
Nic listened to hunters whispering in hushed tones, sharing thoughts and stories, dreams and nightmares, but what was most interesting to hear was what Thalia's group seemed to be discussing. The hunters spoke so quietly that she was sure she was hearing things at first, but watching meant noticing lips form words, and from those lips spilled an idea. A crazy, risky, and deadly idea but nonetheless an idea, and by the gods, it was the only one they had. Might as well run with it.
The group went back to the barricade, the hunters rounding up the other demigods as Thalia solidified her plan with the oldest and most experienced hunters. Not long after, the demigods were informed of the plan and their roles in it, should they chose to accept them and those who didn't were to stay at the barricade, defending it with their lives. Those who chose to follow Thalia were split into groups, categorized by power but not of godly parent, of strength and strategy; here was where lineage didn't matter, here was where you decided who you were going to be and not your parents. Nic was placed in a group of people similar to herself in size, strong enough to hold their own but average when compared to most, whatever their powers were didn't matter now.
"Listen up, train and prepare with your groups and the others. Get to know one another, strength and weaknesses then pair up. We strike at midnight." Thalia spoke with a voice laced with nails causing some of the younger to stand straighter, but beneath it all they could tell, she just wanted to survive even if it was only to see the sunrise.
Sparing took place soon after as a way to train and weed out who was good for close range fighting, endurance, and speed. Nic did well for someone who knew a bow like the back of their hand and was best at long range execution, she was paired with a boy who was best with close range knife fighting and speed. However, they quickly learned that despite being opposing in battle styles, both could control shadows along with three other demigods. His name was Robin and he was a child of Nyx, two out of the other three were legacies of minor gods of darkness or night, and the last was a child of Thanatos named Will.
Together, Thalia instructed, they would use the darkness and shadows of the night to black out the vision of any guards, using the shadows and darkness to kill if necessary, and though purposeful murder left bile in her throat, Nic had to admit she wanted revenge. Maybe that was why she pushed herself so hard, maybe that was why when the shadows replaced the color of her eyes she didn't fight it and let it travel from the veins throughout her body, maybe that was why instead of controlling the darkness, she let it control her.
Shadows or blood? Bodies or corpses? Her small army or the enemy? With darkness inside of her, she couldn't tell the difference and by the time the sun chased the shadows away, the guards were dead as were many of their own. By whose hands, no one would tell her but she could tell in the way their eyes would never met her's, and how they shook when she stood near. Thalia, her once idol, now looked at her with pity and kept her far from others, but at the least they had managed to get the weapons and hold the barricade. War wasn't for making friends though they would make it easier.
Survival of the fittest, but no one can survive long when storm clouds begin blocking the sun.

Corbin Magpie:

        Mychal's POV
        Something was wrong, Cor and his group should have been back by now even with the hardships they faced in the Square. All of the other groups were back by now, filling the once empty sewers with new lives ranging from young babies to the elderly. I situated myself near the tunnel where Corbin's group was supposed to come through, keeping an ear out for any indication that my twin was coming back. Suddenly, this searing pain spread from my lower back at the same time I could hear voices in the tunnel.
        "Help! He was hit with a fire shot!" An older man came rushing through the tunnel holding Corbin in his arms. I could smell the acrid odor of burning flesh and that was when I saw the large burn wound on Corbin's back.
        "Here I'll take him." I didn't wait for a response before I took Corbin from the man and rushed him to one of the healers. "At least you're still alive." I whispered to myself, trying to calm my racing heart. Corbin whimpered in pain as I laid him on his stomach in front of grandma Jolene.
        "He'll be alright child," she stated with a reassuring smile, "grandma Jolene will have him up and strutting again." Her laugh ran through me ears, the sound like that of a babbling brook.
        "Thank you. I hate seeing him get hurt again. I should have insisted on going. Maybe then-"
        "Then both of you would have gotten hurt trying to save him. You might even be in the same situation. This little raven will be fine, he's recovered from many different wounds in the past little dove."
        "I'm not so little anymore, grandma. I've done a lot of growing to protect my brother."
        "You'll always be my little dove no matter how big you get. Now go sit down, you worrying over him won't help." She pointed over to a place that had been set up with other cots, clearly meant as sleeping quarters.
        "Alright grandma, but I'll be back to check on him." I ran my hand through me hair as I made my way to the closest cot, tiredness clouded my mind as my head came in contact with the pillow and I was out after making sure Corbin would be safe.
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3rd person POV
        A soft, gentle breeze carried the sounds of excited laughter throughout Camp Jupiter. Two young teens were chasing each other over the rolling hills covered in sweet smelling grass. One was fairer with close-cropped blonde hair,wings the color of the whitest clouds and eyes that were so green they could rival the grass. The other had midnight curls pulled back into a braid, wings as black as a crows and eyes the color of rubies. They are the twins Mychal and Corbin Magpie, the sons of Eros. Their happiness was the result of their mom bringing Mychal back to camp for summer vacation.
        "Catch me if you can, Mikey!" Young Corbin exclaimed, running from his older brother as fast as he could.
        "I'm gonna get you, Cor," laughed Mychal, nearly tripping over his own two feet as he tried to go faster. The two kept this up for most of the day using all of their time together, having missed each other dearly over the past school year. Even when Grandma Jolene called them back in for dinner they just kept talking and talking as if today were the last day they would ever get to see each other again for another year, which for all they knew it was.
        "Alright you two, come and sit for dinner," smiled Grandma Jolene, glad to see that the boys were so happy.
        "Yes Miss Jolene,"  the two boys said in unison, clambering into their usual seats.
        "How many times have I told you boys to call me grandma Jolene?" The older woman said with a smile showing that she wasn't actually mad.
        "Mother said she doesn't like us calling you that." Corbin's mood turned sour when Mychal mentioned their mother Nevaeh Magpie.
        "I don't care what she says. Grandma Jolene is better than she is," snapped Corbin, crossing his arms over his chest. "She can kiss my ass for all I care." His eyes seemed to glow for a moment reflecting his emotions in the moment.
        "Sorry Cor, I didn't-" Mychal cut himself off realising he didn't know why he had brought her up. He hugged his brother tightly wanting to take the cold, sour feeling that had settled into Corbin's chest.
        "I know," sighed Corbin, "it was a slip up and you didn't mean anything by it. I'm sorry I got so mad again." He hugged Mychal back tightly, already beginning to have a better mood. Grandma Jolene smiled at seeing the two boys make up after their small spat, and set the different food dishes down on the table.
        "Thanks grandma Jolene." The twins once again spoke in unison and even had matching smiles.
        Mychal woke with a start, the dream having been a memory of the last time they saw each other before he and their mom had moved away for a tour of Europe. Of course, Mychal had no real say in what they did or if he could stay with his brother as Nevaeh would have been furious if he even mentioned getting to see his brother for longer than she thought was appropriate. Mychal shook the thoughts from his head before letting his eyes drift over the form of his brother who was still out cold, but now his back was covered in bandages.
        "I'm sorry Cor," he whispered, "It should be me there not you." Mychal was close to crying the more he stared at his twin passed out on the cot. "I swear I will never let you get hurt again,"  he swore to himself, clenching his fists tightly.
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        The days rolled on by at a snail's pace. While Thalia and Jason rallied forces, those left in New Rome were subjugated to the tyrannical rule of Lydia and her compatriots. Legacies forced to register, curfews enforced, armies being amassed and much more occurring to bring New Rome to the old ways of the original Rome. Spies reported back that they were making plans to storm the mortal world, Lydia would not stop until she had the whole world under her thumb.
Corbin's injuries still had yet to fully heal and was forced to stay in the underground safehouse. Mychal, however, was called to help defend the barricades with Thalia and her forces. He was quickly fitted with light armor, a shield and spatha before being sent off with the resistance group. Footsteps echoed off the cold stones, the air heavy with the weight of the fight ahead of them, not just a fight for their home but also a fight to keep the whole world safe.
Early morning fog clung to their bodies, obscuring the battlefield for both sides. Thalia sent a couple archers up into the abandoned buildings, and set aside several small groups to defend different areas of the barricade. Mychal was stationed near the front lines as apart of the group Thalia was leading. Quiet filled every nook and cranny, adding to the heavy atmosphere. As the sun started to burn away the fog, shapes became more and more defined as the centurions and ballista. Everyone present waited with bated breath, wondering who would strike first. Mychal glanced at Thalia, wondering what she was thinking while she assessed the threat ahead. He was soon answered when he saw her signal to the archers.
The sky became dark, arrows flying through the air towards the enemy. Cries of pain mixed with metal hitting metal filtered through the air, followed by a war cry and the sound of a projectile soaring through the air. Everything shook, followed by a deafening sound as the projectile exploded. It was then when everything became a domino effect. The two armies charged at each other, clashing in the middle and disrupting the once peaceful morning. It was pure chaos. Brother against brother, blood against blood. Mychal had lost sight of Thalia early on in the fight as he was swarmed by fighters. He dodged and ducked, narrowly missing being hit several times. Those around him were a blur of metal and leather, sounds where occasionally blocked out by the explosives from the ballista. Fire rained down on the fighters, splinters and rubble flying whenever the projectiles hit their mark.
Mychal became locked in a fight with a massive son of Mars, occasionally getting hit whenever he made a wrong move. His focus was purley on the mountain of a man, causing him to miss the woman coming up to attack him. By the time he turned to see her, she was thrown to the ground with three long gold and white arrows sprouting from her back. He looked to where they had come from, and standing on top of the barricade was Corbin with his bow looking sickly and pale.
"Corbin! You should be resting!" Mychal yelled, blocking a spear in the process.
"And who would cover your ass if I didn't?!" Corbin argued, sending another volley of arrows at the enemy. He was barely able to move, but he wouldn't let his brother going into battle without him. He had been angry when he had been told Mychal had gone to battle, and ignored grandma Jolene when she tried to stop him from going.
"Cor go back! You'll only get wor-" Mychal was cut off, and was thrown back from a projectile exploding in front of him. Corbin's screams of pain could barely be heard through the ringing in Mychal's ears. He could barely feel his brother's touch as the world slowly seeped into darkness, Corbin being the last thing Mychal saw before his eyes slid closed.
"No!" Corbin shouted, standing over Mychal's still body. Tears cascaded down his cheeks as he unleashed his full wrath on those who had hurt his brother. His wings spread out, making him look like an avenging angel. His arrows seemed to be on fire, engulfed in an energy of all hsi negative emotions. Whenever they hit their mark the surrounding enemies would turn on their allies, the effects of the arrows similar to that of charmspeak.
"M-Mychal." Corbin gasped out as he collapsed on top of his brother, the pain of his burns becoming too much for him to handle. "Please don't go. N-not again. Please." He begged, gripping his shirt tightly. His head fell on top of Mychal's chest, his heartbeat become more and more faint. "I can't live without you big brother." Corbin whispered, praying to every god he could think of before succumbing to his wounds and falling unconscious.