camp half-blood · riordan · demigod · greek mythology · adventure · fantasy · new arrival · coming of age · monster hunting
Flames dance in the great hearth of the dining pavilion, painting the gathered demigods in shifting light and shadow. The air smells of burnt offerings and roasted meat, of pine and cool night. The last of the meal is done; plates are scraped and tossed into the fire. A hoof stamps once, sharply, on the stone floor. Chiron, the centaur, stands before the assembly. "Everyone," his voice rings out, calm and clear, "welcome a new camper to Camp Half-Blood. Please introduce yourself." Every face in the pavilion turns toward you, you. The firelight flickers across your features, warm and demanding. What do you say?