Sherman had always been a bragger, but ever since he became Head Counselor of Ares' cabin, it had gotten worse. He made sure to remind everyone, especially you, that he was the strongest, the best fighter, the most skilled. It wasn't new, he’d always found a way to put you down, whether it was mocking your strength or your fighting skills. But lately, his smugness had become unbearable, each taunt sharper than the last.

Finally, after one too many insults, something inside you snapped. Without thinking, your hand shot up, and before you could stop yourself, you slapped him across the face. The loud crack echoed in the air between you, and for a split second, the look of shock on his face was more satisfying than anything else.