Zoren Panganiban

It was not surprising to hear that her sisters were edging her about their date. They have been nudging her since the two of them became an item so all he hoped was that they would do it less often or even stop completely. They can give advice sure but it is his girlfriend's business, not their's. "I just hope they are not annoying you too much, McKayla. You are making me feel bad." He admitted. "I did not get the notice that our date is a formal occasion." Giving her a soft soft smile, he also gave her hand a soft squeeze. "Don't worry about it though. You're here. And we're walking. Too late now."

Zoren figured he should have to care too much about his appearance since they knew each other for a long time and since this will be a picnic, he decided to go with a casual attire that does not limit his mobility but not too casual with the orange t-shirts. "Well... Since it was last minute, I spared some time planning for our date. It's my first time so I wanted it to go perfectly. I even had someone from the Demeter Cabin to make most of the food inside the basket. And..." He gave her a soft gaze. "I wanted it to end perfectly." Pretending to be cool raised his heart rate so he had to draw a few breaths to recompose himself.

It did not take them long to find a pear tree to which they turned right and away from the river. They reached a small clearing where the grass was trimmed and surrounded by fruit bushes. Her boyfriend set a picnic blanket for them to settle and then the basket in the middle. Packed inside is the food typically served on the dining pavilion with a creative twist. Healthy sandwiches with ham and cheese slices, lettuce, and tomato, fruits , and Greek yogurt. Once he opened it, he took out his iPod and gave it to her with an earnest smile. "Your pick on our playlist." 

He did not think that he would live to see the day where THE child of Nike wear a nice dress. All of the children of Nike are rather... not the type for formal clothes and instead wear more whatever they feel comfortable. Seeing McKayla wear something formal made him stand out when he's wearing a dress shirt and shorts. Maybe he is the one that is underdressed in the pair. Even so, she rendered him speechless and he could feel that the both of them are get#4456bdting looks from other campers and some making positive comments about how they dressed. Some were giggling as well. Zoren just thought he'd wear something like this but apparently the both of them did not share the same message.

It didn't matter to him in the end and he could not help but smile back at her. He can feel a whole damn zoo inside him when she kissed him in his cheek. "You- You too, McKayla." He continued to scrutinize her but it took him the next couple of seconds for him to finally register what she asked. "Um, yes- Of course. You're so beautiful, I swear." He commented as he did not hesitate to hold her hand, fingers intertwining as they made their way inside the forest. Since their secluded spot is near the river, he decided for them to walk along the riverbank as an indication that their spot is near once he sees an pear tree. "So how has your day been so far? You sleep well?" He wanted to ask.

MKZoren's date today is rather spontaneous as they had brought it up just the day before when they went pegasus riding together. It has always been their thing- to just decide on what to do without much planning and the outings they have somehow always end up being an experience they won't regret save for some things that made him frown. He never let those ruin the mood because if his mood is ruined, then the hang out is ruined. This time, the two of them had decided to go have a picnic on a secluded area in the forests near running water. Zoren had found the spot beforehand and he liked the subtle sound of running water from the river nearby. It was the perfect location for spending intimate moments with his one and only other half. His Nike girl. The young man was picking her up so he waited for her from the Nike cabin's entrance with a picnic basket in hand, inside with food not entirely made by a child of Demeter. He put his thought into it as well so it did not feel like the chef carried their date.

Instead of the usual camp attire, he wore a plaid dress shirt and beige shorts. White sneakers hugged his feet and only to be looked at unless prompted to. It was obvious that he has something going on, given the attire and the basket in mind but he did not mind. He preferred to look nice, not that he discredited the orange shirt otherwise. If someone got nearby, they could smell the freshness of his cologne from the perfect combination of mint leaves, Italian lemon zest, and green apple. This exotic fragrance gives off a sensuality that shows his passionate side, an add-on he wanted to save for dates. @ McKayla Johnson

"A little odd now that you put it that way, but yes." Perhaps dealing with him had taken up too much of his mind that he had overlooked to check up on his girlfriend. He was focused on dealing with the situation at hand rather than chasing after her. "I suppose I wanted to make amends with you first but we should go check up on her first. It does not have to be awkward but seeing two important people in her life come for her is something that can be comforting. "I'll leave you guys to make up as well so we can go on our date. Come on." Gesturing him to come with, Zoren started walking in the direction where McKayla fled. The rivalry between the Ares and Athena cabins is alive and well but Zoren wanted to change that, starting with Dustin. Given that both are deities of war, it made sense but it did not have to be this way he believed. This is one of the reasons he had tried but to no avail... until now. "Well... It is the middle of the day. We can have a chat over some grub then do some activities together. Bouldering, canoeing, even sparring and dueling. I wanted to ask- What are some things you like to do? This is a judgement-free zone." 

Zoren could relax in her presence, knowing that he could trust her in situations like this. She knows what to do- coming to people's aid as long as nobody causes a ruckus. He could not help but smile at her half-siblings' laugh from his response, growing confident in letting people know that he and McKayla are together this way. There are other ways to show that he cares and better ways than shouting to disrupt the peace. Giving the older camper a nod, Zoren got ready to depart the Big House. "Yes, we're good Rissa. Thank you. And um, yeah. I'd love to." Zoren loved music and so did McKayla. Maybe he'd sing one of the songs in their playlist with them, he thought.

"Of course." He responded as he squatted down in front of her so she could get on his back. If she proceeded, he held her legs suspected against his hips while her arms wrapped around his shoulders so it looks like he's carrying her like backpack. "Hmm... Your cabin. We went to mine last time. I will take good care of you, honeycomb." Once she is secured, he stood up and departed from the Big House.

Exit Zoren & McKayla.

RP End.

Zoren never intended to start one either as he wanted to give him a chance to explain himself. In a world where judgement can be made outright, he preferred to form his own after hearing him out. To pick up the why is sometimes better than to stop after the what. He stood next to him, listening to him with intent as the class slowly dispersed, each camper going to their next class or next activity they had planned on pursuing after this class. He was right to dismiss class because there are things that should not be heard in another's ears and what he said had proven that to be true. There's no anger anymore but melancholy instead.

To see his former significant other in another, especially since when they were loved more than they know... It's uncanny that McKayla and Krystal bear some semblance when they performed the same move. He did not know to what extent of their relationship has gone since he had only heard from fellow campers and McKayla herself. Zoren made the choice to stay behind and a smile curled the corners of his lips upon the question. "Actually yes, it is an order." He mused. "Silliness aside, I won't do anything. I just wanted to ask why you did that and you gave me an answer. Simple enough." He licked his lips. "I know that you two have been friends and I wanted to add- I apologize if I seemed antagonistic. I appreciate you telling me. Um-" Zoren paused. "Do you want to talk a walk with me? Figured we could talk, perhaps over a snack or an activity?" He was not sure if this was going to work but he liked talking to people and getting to know them, ultimately making him stand out in the crowd that judges.

A soft chuckle parted his lips. "Of course I will help you out the science part. I'll even put it in layman's terms for you." Zoren had always been interested in STEM, a broad term used to group the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines together. With science being his favorite school subject, he had no doubt that he can be her personal tutor in that area. He knew very well how much she disliked school but at the same time, it will be fun getting in on it because... they always stick together. Perhaps if it is an instructor instead, she would not comply as much as having Zoren be one. The child of Athena adjusted his imaginary glasses and proceeded to banter. "There's a reason I got the nickname 'Zo-Fi'."

Finally finishing his snacks, it was time to get up since she stood from her seat. Twisting his body to relieve it of the tension, he began to smile as she started to sing with her mellow voice. He recognized the song in no thanks to his audiokinesis so once there was a pause, he followed:

I wanna taste love and pain
Wanna feel pride and shame
I don't wanna take my time
Don't wanna waste one line
I wanna live better days
Never look back and say
Could have been me
It could have been me
Yeah

Zoren began dancing with her as the two of them jammed to the song that is very much a track on their playlist. It was something that held them together when they are close or far, he had felt close to her whenever he went. However, tonight holds quite a surprise for Zoren but that's a tale for another thread.

RP End.

Love can do wonders for a person. It can bring a melting pot of emotions whether it is happy, sad, or mad. There was a camper that became friends with him but she came to have a crush on him at first. She was not the most beautiful looking but Zoren liked having her around because of how nice she was to him, plus she was his go to camper for weapons forgery. He'd find himself asking her to forge him a new weapon every time his own breaks simply because of wear and tear and she would agree because she knew how much training he does with said weapon whether it be a staff, sword, or dagger. Even two blades at the same time. What he did not know was that she grew to have feelings for him and sometimes would retort when he talks about McKayla. He was quite oblivious at the time but he knew enough that his heart was set on someone else and that he needed to break the news as soon as possible to avoid misleading her. He didn't want to let it change their current friendship... but it is a risk he had to take before it explodes. It was during one night's camp fire song where he left during the middle and asked her to come with him while everyone else is in a good mood. After that, they did not talk for a week until she volunteered to repair one of his blades. After she apologized, they grew to be friends and she went back to being his go-to girl not only for weapons but to talk to after McKayla.

So the thought of his girlfriend expressing his concerns of him seeing women who could be more cooler or prettier, it did not matter to him. Sure, he can be friends with him but the thought of turning his back towards her never would never cross his mind. Loyalty is something that he learned and valued as a camper so he can bet his as he will stick around with her... as promised in the River Styx. "If I did, then the river will be out to get me." He jokingly spoke. "But I won't. And you are my Nike girl. I can always be friends with girls but in the end, they got nothing on you." Zoren booped her nose out of affection, setting a more similar gaze into his now eternal best friend and partner. She's probably the first girl to hear him out whenever he geeks out on one of his niches which she just so happened to have similar interests. "Hmm... In a typical high school story, this is where the geek and the jock meet but the world is more than black and white. I became quite enthralled when you said you liked the same things as me." It grew to be such a satisfying feeling to be complete. To be free of doubt. To be free of uncertainty.

As McKayla pulled her into a kiss once more, he welcomed her lips with all his heart. They were not something he craved until they danced under the moonlight earlier so he continued to give her shower her with kisses until he fell asleep. The night went by quickly and so starts their first day as a couple...

RP End.

Zoren was not the type to explore songs but rather listen to the same songs every day. When he first mentioned this to McKayla, she told him that she will send him recommendations based on his genre preferences. She allowed him to collaborate as well so he could add in songs to recommend to her, thus the playlist between them his born. Listening to the tracks there made him feel like he is listening next to her side by side with an earbud on his ear and another on her's. He thought nothing of it since they were friends but the playlist grew to have a more deeper significance the longer they spend time together. It became a symbol of their deep rooted friendship. That same playlist accompanied him outside of camp whether he is in school, at home, or riding the bus wherever he went- it's a reminder that McKayla refreshes his soul and wants him to grow just like growing his song library.

"That's true..." He responded. "Well, it was just a suggestion. I am not trying to force you. Everyone has... a different purpose, but I'll always be there to support you no matter what. Maybe even help you reach the top someday." Zoren felt a surge of confidence from his words, given his history with guiding her on how to be better at specific sports though with some, all he has left to do now is encourage and cheer her on. A part of him still wanted her to like something under the umbrella of education. Maybe something sports related? How come he did not think of his before? He snapped his fingers. "How about exercise science? You already know how to do sports- you can just focus on the why and the know-how." He was giggling surprised even at this own idea. "I can help out with the sciencey stuff and you... You do the exercise stuff. Simple enough, right?"

The child of Athena watched closely as the two performed their moves in a demonstration, fulling trusting them in showing the class what today's lesson is going to be about. And who could do it better than the two campers who trained often together, like a mentor and a mentee. Watching the two of them with arms crossed in his chest, he began to notice the direction the fight took after his girlfriend did the same move her sister did. He remembered her telling him about it- she was quite happy to accomplish something Krystal did as she was growing more and more like her sister. But to him, she'll always remain as the McKayla Johnson. When they wound up in the ground, he grew agitated-

"Hey that's Zoren's girl!" A camper in class spoke out as the Ares child was about to kiss his girlfriend, bringing a flush to his face. How did he know that? And judging by his classmates faces directed towards him for the moment, he found out they knew too. He could have sworn he checked the cabin area before the two of them went inside the Athena cabin. He preferred for people to know slowly but cat's out of the bag now. He needed to recompose himself. That doesn't matter. He quickly looked back at Dustin and McKayla, only for him to see her point at him and run off. He was going to intercept but he was so fixated at Dustin in the moment that he halted his tracks to look at him, but when he wanted to look back at her- she was already gone with Krystal chasing after her.

Pissed might be an understatement but that's probably because of that children of Ares affect. He didn't want to let his emotions cloud his judgment, not again to Dustin. Zoren unclenched his fists and approached the instructor with caution. With a deep breath, he began. "That was... quite a show you two put there, but that was uncalled for. McKayla... We're together. I'm mad, yes but I figured it's better to know what's going on with you. I was hoping we can reach and understanding today." He wanted to be different this time, wanted to know why are people are doing this. If he can accomplish this, then he'd like the possibility of friendship- something that could be unexpected between the Ares and Athena cabins.

The young man made a mental note not to freak out if there is a next time that Larissa heals McKayla. Being in a relationship the first week, things can get a little exaggerated like he had demonstrated when he yelled her name as he sprinted towards the porch. Thinking about it now, it was very... loud of him as she needed the peace and quiet to concentrate on singing a hymn to her father. He wondered if he could communicate with his mother despite not seeing her at all. The owl pendant he wears on his neck was a gift from her so he'd look to it as if he is looking at his mother, even thanking it when it helped him in battle. It was like she sought to be by his side but could not simply because gods aren't meant to mingle with mortals so she gave him the pendant to give him that reminder- a symbol of love, one he felt lucky in receiving. If he were to tell his half-siblings about this, he'd probably get the silent treatment or any demigod that sought the same from their parents.

"You can count on me. I think she'll be fine in my arms." A soft chuckle followed as he flashed the older camper a wink before he looked over to his girlfriend with concern. "With every treatment comes with rest, even though you got treated with magic. I think you should just take it easy for now. Light movement and not too intensive exercises. Of course you're not just going to sit around. I do have some activities planned for you to get you to move and take your mind off of this. Consider it rehabilitation, but not exactly that."

Zoren shook his head. "There is no need for you to apologize. I understand that having crushes his natural and that they are feelings we may or may not have control of. Though... I am glad that it was Dustin that you look to. He is the one who trains you in hand to hand and pushes you to your limit. I- was not able to do that before you first met him. I think he's an alright guy, the most alright Ares child I know. Don't tell him I said that though." A soft chuckle parted his lips, still bewildered that he was telling her about this now. His jealousy towards him that grew into acceptance. Seeing them train together made part of the resolve that kept him to persevere in his training. When there is a day he would protect her with all his strength, he would be looking forward to it. "I still get jealous so I hope you know what you are doing around the guys." A rather childlike tone filled his words before he pressed his lips on her forehead, hinting at his discreet possessive character when entering in a relationship. "I hope that is not a dealbreaker. I will be sad if it is."

Her words then reassured him and cleared of any doubt he had towards her. It's not like he wants to be controlling but he values loyalty to which he very knew McKayla will be. Even so, he seeks to meet her halfway so that there won't be miscommunication in the future. Any fights. Any arguments. They've had arguments in the past but he never let something so trivial break their friendship. Perhaps they argued in advance? He preferred to think it that way. When there is some kind of unsettlement, he preferred to dispute it as soon as possible before letting it drag out and hurt them though he doubts there will be any time soon. The two of them are so... in sync. Hearing about the nickname her friends gave him back in her home made him giggle. Sometimes he loved to tease but it reminded him of the nickname that was given to her every time he's invested in his phone or computer. "MK." He responded. "Mine called you MK for short which brought me to name our playlist MKZoren. It does have a resemblances to Mk, an abbreviation people use to mark progress to an updated component or system. Like Mk II, Mk III- And there goes my nerd talk again."

"I know you mean it so I did the same. Swearing by the River Styx is the biggest promise anyone could make and has to be kept for life." Zoren spoke as a hand slowly moved to wipe her tears as they trailed down on her cheek. Another kiss was made to her lips, one more brief than the last. Her cheek was held by his hand as the other pulled them closer together but not too close for him to feel like he's in a tight space. Right now felt like the right time to say the words he had always wanted to say...

"I love you, McKayla Johnson. Child of Nike." He blinked. "I mean as a boyfriend. I know I've said this to you before but now I mean more than that. Alright take two."

A sigh followed. 

I love you.

Even with the god-given intellect, he was surprised to hear that she had feelings for him for quite a while. Even after hanging out with her, he still could not tell if she did- but who could just hint their feelings outright? It felt so deep inside that she remained oblivious to it, that a miracle is performed for her to realize it. He was not nervous anymore but a bundle of fluff is filing his soul every passing moment. Just looking at her eyes with affection, all he could think about now was her aside from the fact that they ditched a party just to go cuddle in his cabin. The bunk beds were made for one person but he made it work for them. Zoren welcomed her kisses, eyes closing to feel the very flesh he wanted for himself. They felt warm and soft, just like her hand when he led her to his cabin. After what felt like a brief moment, his lips parted for him to speak, the corners of it curling into a wide smile.

"I... cannot express how happy I am. To be by your side. To be there for and with you. Honestly, I didn't realize it too. I've thought of you as my best friend, someone whom I can be myself to. Share my life with. When you began to look the other way... to Dustin, that's when I knew." A soft sigh parted his lips, a hand moving up to hold her cheek. His thumb brushing soft circles on her skin. "I did not want to cause a scene or be a bother so I bottled these emotions up and instead, supported you. Be the best friend you ever had. I trained harder." He paused. "I trained harder because I want to protect you and that I want to be THE best friend of McKayla Johnson. Now I am THE boyfriend." Zoren was chuckling, leaning in to peck her lips.

"I was enjoying Aislynn's party at Dionysus's cabin. Socializing with several campers and hearing about their stories outside of camp. It's quite an improvement, but when I saw you dancing with that camper- I nearly lost it. Told him to fuck off and go somewhere else, because you're... my girl." His tongue coated his lips wet as he felt they were growing damp. "I'll probably hear from them tomorrow." 

Zoren was worried, certainly.

Her boyfriend became quite angsty at the right of her sprained ankle as well as the cuts and bruises she had gotten somehow. He stood on the side so that the older camper can concentrate- she seemed to know what she is doing. It was not until she began singing that he knew she is a daughter of Apollo, whose vocal lines can be used to heal injuries from battle. He heard that the extent of the healing depends on practice and that those who specialize in that tend to be less skilled in marksmanship. If anything, he preferred the former as one can just practice their aim while spending some time cultivating their songs. This song, for instance, he listened with intent as the Greek language was instantly translated to what he can understand as every demigod here has the ability to. Seeing a warm light being emitted from the woman, his eyes began to widen. He has seen Apollo children heal before but he'd always be fascinated at the healing phenomena, like simply turning back time as if the wounds were never there. Her voice was sweet and soft and even he could feel the slight warmth from here as it began to put him in a more relaxed state. It was then that he knew he could trust this person.

Happy to witness a miracle, he approached McKayla to place a hand on her shoulder before looking at the woman. "Rissa, right?" The young man gave her a soft smile just before becking her. "Please excuse my behavior. I was concerned so I rushed over here. I'm Zoren. Pleased to make your acquaintance, child of Apollo." 

Neutral, sure- but better than being enemies. Zoren preferred not having any grudges when he leaves camp.

What he did to even perform such a flexible feat was painstakingly difficult. Constant stretching and putting himself under a strict training regiment while taking high school classes, the child of Athena has been put in almost never-ending stress. He was beginning to feel that partaking in his extracurriculars and learning Korean has become is free free time, but nevertheless persevered because he wanted to defend himself and those close to him. When she began pulling him, he could feel a burning sensation in his posterior leg muscles and the muscles in the lumbar spine region. He held on for at least twenty seconds as a habit from his training before she let go and they proceeded to perform more stretches until the class instructor clapped. Of course, the sound brought his attention to the Ares camper. Though when he started pacing, he was smiling at McKayla but soon turned to Dustin when he was near them.

Working in pairs? That's great because he wanted to- Oh, she's going to demonstrate. Zoren became rather disappointed at his choice but it was hidden with a smile back to her as she approached Dustin. That would mean him finding another partner to which he had no problem with, but he preferred to be with his girlfriend. He observed as she jogged in pace, getting herself ready to defend Dustin's attacks. He already knew that they had trained together in the past and they still do now. Sometimes Zoren would watch from afar, making note of their moves- especially focusing on Dustin's but would gradually glance on McKayla's. Her giggles. Her smile. At least she was there to keep him in check.

He scanned the entire class for a potential partner for class activity and it did not take him long to choose one. He was fine with any camper but he did not feel like being left out for some reason.

18 | Male | He/Him | Heterosexual | Camper since 2008

He is known to help or lecture people with personal and emotional problems, regardless if it's his business or not, claiming that a leader should meddle in other people's lives. This audacious spirit, while initially viewed as perplexing or even insane by others, is also recognized by many, and has earned the loyalty and gratitude of people that were previously antagonistic towards him. He has a strong fascination with battle tactics and is shown well-versed in their history, sometimes even surprising the counselors themselves with his vast knowledge.

Zoren is obsessed with organization and discipline within his cabin, expecting his siblings to follow suit, which more often than not annoys them due to his usually loud and overbearing nature. At the same time, he takes personal responsibility for their safety and guidance in times of crisis, considering it his duty as the oldest sibling to protect and keep them away from dangerous situations should they ever arise. This responsibility also extends to many campers. He knows how to quickly respond to situations of emergency, making sure to downplay panic and disorder among people. 

He is very humble, willing to admit to his mistakes, apologize for rude behavior, and improve himself in areas he is lacking. This life-long philosophy serves as the cornerstone of his great self-confidence; he believes he can accomplish any goal with enough hard work and perseverance. Despite his quirks and the criticism they earn him, Zoren is said to have a personality that draws people to him, inspiring friendship and loyalty through acts of genuine kindness that could change a person's worldview and thus build meaningful relationships.

He is extremely dedicated to his studies and is always eager to learn new things, regardless of whether they have anything to do with the school or even CHB.

WIP.

Inherent Abilities - Close Combat - E-Sports - Multilingualism

Zoren's mental performance has been revealed to operate in the most efficient and rapid manner possible. Some manifestations of this are his exceptional leadership skills, deductive skills, analytical skills, and tactical genius. He has demonstrated the ability to quickly process multiple information streams and rapidly respond to any changing tactical situations by creating perfect winning strategies, evident in his underdog position in e-sports competitions.

Zoren is a proficient hand-to-hand combatant and martial artist, having a growing mastery of Filipino martial arts and experience in sparring, competitions, and live combat making him a fighter of his caliber on par to even experienced Ares children. He has also demonstrated to be a skilled duelist with his preferred weapons of daggers, swords, and lances/spears/staffs. Because he relies on technique over attribute, he can be often found training with his selected weapon and the fruits of this development can be shown when he can defend himself in a 180 degree arc in front to engage a single or multiple opponents for a degree of time. He is able to make defensive motions to cover his rear flank against single attacks. Ranged attacks (i.e. thrown objects, arrows) may apply as well. By the same coin, he is capable of creating his own offensive sequences and engaging almost any kind of foe albeit monsters may or may not apply depending on their size. Over the years of camp training and guidance, he may be able to fluidly dodge attacks from multiple directions using coordinated flips, twists, and sharp turns without losing balance. He often utilizes these talents in combat for both evasive and offensive purposes. Combined with his enhanced agility, Zoren has expertise in utilizing parkour and tricking flips in his attacks and takedowns.

As a son of Athena, Zoren is an excellent strategist and tactical genius. He can formulate battle strategies and his brilliant tactical sense allows him to alter near any strategy to fit the changing needs of the situation. He frequently proved himself a quick study in battlefield situations being able to quickly ascertain details from minor actions. His bravery and determination further supplement this as he is willing to take even the riskiest of choices to stand a chance to win, a trait best exemplified when he was quickly able to outsmart his opponents and bested them 1 v 5 in a 5v5 character-based tactical first person shooter game as well as several capture the flag games at CHB, earning him the nickname 'Annabeth 2.0'.

Zoren's audiokinesis has guided him to having fluency over English, Spanish, Tagalog, and Korean. Coding languages not available.

WIP.

Owl Pendant - CB Dagger - CB Xiphos - CB Spear - Light Armor. WIP.

★ Enemies/Dislikes | ★ Acquaintances/neutral | ★ Family | ★ Trusts | ★ Likes

★ Katie Rose

★ Helena L'amour, Dustin Graves, Larissa Souza

#4456BD

It was not just any cabin, but Athena's cabin. He wondered what his mother would think about one of her sons brining his girlfriend over to her cabin, expecting some kind of hint or signal that indicates a response. Nothing, as usual so he shrugged at the thought. It was the same cabin that he and his siblings slept in for several summers where he experienced hardships with them, planned and finished projects with them while some even are results of the Hephaestus cabin's collaboration. He was the youngest before but now he is the oldest. He brought McKayla in here before but bringing her in now turned out to be a much different feeling. It was more impassioned with an ardent twist. She was his best friend this morning but now she entered as his partner so that thought could dwell in his mind rent-free. "You've been here before but now it certainly does feel different with how the events have transpired." Giving her a soft grin, he tugged her hand gently before coming in without even checking who saw them.

When she laid beside him, his arm was already extended to the side so he would wrap around her shoulders with it. Zoren closed his eyes to press his lips against her forehead, giving her a gentle kiss while caressing her arm with his other hand. He snuggled up and placed a leg above hers while an arm wrapped her in his embrace. It was pretty obvious on what his answer is going to be but he would gladly remind her who is she cuddling with. "Yes. You're my girlfriend now. My Nike girl." He chuckled at the thought- it was cheesy but nothing else could top this at the moment. "I cannot express how happy you have made me tonight, my love. It feels so surreal. I couldn't wait until the end of the summer. I want to spend my last one with my partner. My soulmate. I dreamt the day where you said you liked me back would come. I always held hope because we always stick together."

The son of Athena was occupied honing his weapon forms so he could obtain mastery one day. While he could never master as naturally as the Ares campers, he had always believed in technique over brute force which is why he preferred to bury himself in a few weapons but still retained some proficiency in other weapons. Silence fell around him as he stood in a large clearing of the forest. Leaves bristled as the wind swayed the flora as a tranquil atmosphere began to settle. Zoren preferred to wear his uniform while practicing but he decided to adorn the usual camp attire with an orange tee with black joggers. White sneakers anchored to the ground as a breath of fresh air circulated through his robust body, relaxing his body to empty his mind. His eyes were closed in full concentration before the staff he was holding began to twist and turn around his hands, arms, and head. It was like a fast-paced spectacular dance with the staff seeming to be blurry but visible whenever he slowed down. He could apply this to any staff weapon but preferred to use the bo staff for practice since it is the most basic and safe to use. He never had enhanced hearing but the silence allowed him to hear the running foot steps of a fellow camper, the sounds growing more louder as a young woman with ginger red hair entered the clearing. "Zoren! McKayla..." Her voice sounded concerning, he could immediately tell. 

"At the Big House-" And Zoren was gone the next moment.

He was quick on his feet as he sprinted from the forests to the administrative building of the camp. He was not blurry but he was fast enough to garner attention of nearby campers, some could even note how determined he is to reach his destination. Zoren felt like the Quiksilver but he could never match the Hermes campers, but he preferred to feel like he'd have that kind of speed. Passing by the arena, he managed to arrive at the Big House. Eyes laying on Asher first, then Larissa, then to his girlfriend while his not so subtle footsteps could be heard from nearby. "McKayla!" He called her out in a rush, his voice that might have startled some due to the sudden outburst.

While they haven't spoken to each other at all, it does never hurt to interact with him. Several years since he started visiting camp and not a single conversation. Perhaps they made eye contact with each other but neither of them were interested in going further. Today, he decided to change that. "Hey, Dustin." He waved to him, noting his shirtless, lean muscular body covered in sweat. He must have exercised before class, he thought. Zoren did the same but much earlier than most campers. Should he look at him, he would give him a rather candid smile and a wink- something that he would not find himself doing before. It could be a feeble attempt to get them talking but at least it's better than just acknowledging each other's existence. Making friends with his girlfriend's crush would not hurt, right?

Upon her request to stretch in a vacant spot, he agreed to do so but he could already tell she preferred to avoid Dustin. Sure they professed their feelings last night but her thing for the Ares child is not going to go away overnight. Zoren understood that but still frowned upon it. After McKayla led them to their spot, the young man stood across from her and crouched down to perform a split for ten seconds. It had been part of his routine now to stretch since starting jeet kune do but he never intended on showing her until he could do a full one. He was able to do it a year since he began visiting camp. Seeing her do a V, Zoren did the same and connected their feet- leaning towards her to grab her wrists and pull her so she could stretch her ham strings. Once he was done, he allowed her to do the same with him if she were to.

As Zoren was picking their snacks, her sweet voice reached her ears as she sang to herself. 

"Baby your my summer vibe, taking you're picture while we are bathing in summer"

And he remembered the song because she sent him the track before coming to camp. It was part of the many songs in her playlist where she invited him to collaborate and put his songs in there for her to listen to. Together, they compiled an entire playlist that is curated to their tastes so they would know what songs they'd like. For this particular song, he remembered the lyrics in no thanks to his audiokinesis. "I've been on my own, yeah. Okay, it's been a week, I think it's overrated. I'm tired of the break, okay I maybe hate it. I kinda just miss you..." He continued the song with his tenor voice and did nothing but deepened the romance the song had intended. When he finished, he was smiling to her as he proceeded to their table.

Zoren hurled a grape over to her mouth for her to eat before picking one on his own to chew on. "Summer Vibe by Forrest Nolan, right?" He could not hold back his grin. He could never forget the artist's voice nor her voice whenever she takes the chance to sing a track from their playlist titled 'MKZoren'. He loved listening to music as he would usually end up listen to the same ones but McKayla had gotten him to expand his tastes so he now has a better grasp of his genres. He remained to have fluid taste, listening to any song that speaks to his soul. Summer Vibe is just the one of many.

"Besides the Olympics, any other athletic competitions you think you can compete in? I know that school isn't your strength but I am willing to help you succeed if it means getting you a degree. I understand that it is just a sheet of paper saying that you shed blood, sweat, and tears for four years but it does make you a living. We're still half mortals after all." He paused to smile at her, showing genuine interest in discussing about her future even if she did not plan to.

His first day at camp turned out to be quite a roller coaster. From seeing McKayla in person after a year, to witnessing a claiming at the bonfire, to finally having his feelings reciprocated after bottling them for so long. Zoren could not be any more happier but he wanted to take the intimacy further while the both of them are still in the mood. He was growing to crave her lips with every step he made towards the Athena cabin but he is going to miss the music accompaniment they had when they slow danced. It was a nice touch and if he ever found a camper responsible for that, he would thank them in person. Recalling the time he had asked a few campers for advice, one of them was Helena- a child of Aphrodite. If she contributed to their tender moment, he'd have her to thank for as well.

"Hmm... You will see. It'll still be just the two of us." Zoren flashed her a grin when they entered the camp's lodging area. Seeing that it is empty save for some campers leaving or coming back, it was enough for him to be confident that they won't come back for a while since they are busy with a party at Dionysus or elsewhere. The bonfire was just crowded an hour ago but the fire kept on burning to keep the area lit. He had no problem revealing their relationship to others but he preferred to do so when they are ready rather than catch them in their one of many intimate moments. As the two enter the Athena cabin, he took the moment to inspect and found that his siblings had already put their belongings and claimed a bunk bed. And still organized. Zoren had made it a rule to keep things organized so they won't fight over lost materials and having a clean cabin means better for everyone.

Gesturing for her to take off her shoes, he went ahead to do the same and removed his socks as well- leaving his orange camp shirt and beige trousers on. Setting his owl pendant on his work bench, he laid in his bunk bed and tapped with his palm on her vacant spot. "I want you to sleep with me. On our first night. As a couple."

Zoren did not know how buried her feelings were when she usually focused on Dustin but if this is a work of someone else... perhaps a child of Aphrodite, then he'd be grateful for all the help he got- another reason why he tends to rely on people to get a task not usually done by a single person... done. Even so, he was impressed with himself. Stood up against that Apollo kid from earlier and then managed to say how he felt... in the beginning of the summer no less. The thought of spending the rest of his last summer in camp with her had placed him in a gloomy mood but if he were to repeat that though now, he would be more than glad to do so. To spend it as an item. He truly has nothing against Dustin, save for the fact that he can appear to have lit a fuse at times.

Swearing by the River Styx might be a rash decision to many but it does to show how much their love for each other as grown. To love each other even in death. Zoren had been keeping this to himself for a while now but he understood that swearing by it is the best thing to do to express how much he has felt about her. He could feel her lips pressing against his- even in kissing she seemed like she wants to be the better kisser. Not that he would mind. It was a fleeting moment where he thought he one upped that Apollo kid from earlier, a smug expression made his face when their lips parted. Their eyes meeting again as she reminded him that he won't be at the camp next year which left eerie feeling in his stomach. Very quickly, he reassured her. "I do not want to lose you too. We've been through so many things and experienced them together. No way in hell am I leaving you. No way. Just no way..." Zoren felt like he was on the edge being in a euphoria. "You have my number. Discord. Even my dad's number. Even Malik's. I'll be there within a message away. I just love you McKayla... A lot." He gave her a brief kiss on her lips as his eyes closed just to savor her soft lips. "Forever in eternity. Even in death." He grinned. "Come on. The party has just started."

Having a firm grasp in her wrist, he lead them to his cabin and a night of cuddling ensues.

EXIT.

GM rights given w/ permission.

"Who said I will be your second command?" He asked with a grin. "Someone's gotta watch your back." Even though he certainly did not consider joining the legion just yet, talking about it with her proved to be fun. They haven't gotten on quests like the older campers did but they have taken on monsters together and demonstrated excellent teamwork. While two may seem silly with each other and their peers, a more serious and competitive aura embues them as they face the monster together. Sure they can tackle monsters by themselves but their cooperative, planned attacks made them a formidable team. "And that is where I come in. To watch her back." Zoren spoke as he suddenly hugged her from behind, arms wrapped from below her chest. He could feel her body warmth from how close they are. A red hue painted itself on his cheeks if they never made eye contact with each other only for him to part. "Yeah, of course! You too." Hot-headed, he gulped before looking at their options once more. What did he want to get again. McKayla! No. What food? Zoren blinked.

"I will get us grapes and apples then. Mix and match, right?" Her friend went over to retrieve their snacks from the table that held them available to pick. He still gets impressed at how they always seem fresh but he could never question Greek mythology. Apple slices, grapes, and sliced cheese, and strawberries. Placing them in their groups, he made the appearance look as fancy as possible before going over to where McKayla sat. Setting the plate down, he sat across from her only to have an idea- a light bulb lighting up atop his head. Picking a grape, he asked. "Open your mouth." If she did, Zoren would throw the grape and the fruit hurled itself onto her mouth.

Zoren was smiling out of glee. "No, because you're going to best me anyways if you put your mind into it. Still, I think you should focus on what you do best. Don’t fear the man who knows one thousand techniques. But fear the man that has practiced one technique one thousand times. That's what Bruce Lee said. I'd be lying when I said he did not influence my decision to take up jeet kune do. The movies were cool and I was easily swayed. Had I seen a different movie I would have been set to pursue that practice." A soft chuckle parted from the young man. "Then again, I didn't think I'd get to do this with you so I didn't practice much... but I'm glad I did." Zoren was there when McKayla started form square one to learn a new sport and would often be a teacher to her in terms of rules, etiquette, form, and scoring. He is no personal coach per say but still would take up the temporary role to make sure she is in shape. While it is a struggle to do that outside of camp, he tried his best to make sure she takes the first place, befitting for a daughter of Nike- goddess of victory. 

He was beginning to feel like they are in the center of a romance novel but it is not just those that he surged his confidence from. Even as a child of Athena, he asked for advice in something he hasn't done before as he preferred to hear from experiences and opinion. He began with his father and his pursuit for Athena then to his friends then to his siblings then to a select few campers. They turned out to be somewhat helpful but he went with something he felt like doing. The waltz. Slow and easy. And apparently the music accompaniment became more convenience than an annoyance with the soft, romantic lyrics and mellow rhythm. Dancing under the moonlight alone with just the two of them and a possibility of an Apollo camper nearby.

I love you too.

She said it? She said it. She said it. When she said it, he felt his body grew light as if it jumped off a cliff out of elation. Zoren halted their dance as he looked down on their feet as they stood right across from each other. He needed the moment to recompose himself after professing his love and hearing her reciprocating it. This isn't a dream, he thought to himself. It's real. He looked back at her upon feeling her hand against his cheek, bringing him to do the same to her as he set another affectionate gaze so full of passion. He was euphoric. It had always been her. His drive for success, the need to to improve, and going out there to a better person and connect. It was love. "I swear by the River Styx. Me too. Always has been."

This thumb began brushing soft circles on her cheek, taking the moment to admire her face once more. Their faces slowly leaned in as they closed the distance between each other, eyes closing as their lips finally met with passion and need. His hand was still holding her's from the waltz but soon parted to wrap around her waist and pulled their bodies together. It began with a soft kiss but the lips parted only for him softly say her name. "McKayla..." A more passionate kiss ensued as their lips meshed with each other upon contact. His hand went from her cheek to meet his other behind her waist, locking his fingers as if he trapped her within his warm embrace.

GM rights given w/ permission.