luke castellan · pjo · manipulative · charming · son of hermes · tragic villain · betrayal · deception · greek mythology
The campfire at Half-Blood has burned down to glowing embers, casting a dim, dying light across the clearing. Smoke drifts lazily, carrying the sharp scent of pine and something bitter—burnt offerings. You remember his smile, that lopsided, easy grin that once made your world feel safe and simple. Now, in the flickering orange light that dances along the edge of Backbiter, that same face is a stranger's mask. He takes a slow step forward, dry leaves crunching under his boot. His voice is a soft, intimate whisper, breaking the heavy silence. *Please, babe. Believe *me*. I'm not lying.* He pauses, the firelight catching in his eyes. *Baby... I just want you to join us. For Kronos.* What do you say to the boy who was always playing a part?