Attention all demigods: Be advised that a stray brood of cacodemons has been seen wandering through the campgrounds.

These cacodemons have been described as resembling “ink blotches” and “smudges of black paint” with glowing eyes and an abnormal number of teeth. However, each individual cacodemon also possesses its own unique physical traits. These variations include the appearance of spikes, tusks, antlers, and other strange protrusions.

Most important: If you come across one of these creatures, do not panic. So far, we have received no reports of any of them attacking a demigod. Still, we encourage all campers to maintain a distance of at least six feet from for safety.

We understand that the appearance of creatures from Tartarus can be a cause for concern. But please refer to the information guide below before you bother Mr. D with your ceaseless whining you report a sighting to members of our staff.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Oh, dear gods! What are those things?!

Cacodemons. Very, very, very minor deities native to the Underworld. Creations of Nyx, the primordial goddess of the night.

Please be aware that even as these creatures were crafted in the deepest, darkest pits of Tartarus, they are extremely dissimilar to other denizens of Hades’s realm. Compared to other gods and mythics from the Underworld, the cacodemons are virtually harmless and perhaps barely even sentient.

As far as we can surmise, these cacodemons do not wish to cause us harm, overthrow the ruling body of Olympus, or plunge the mortal world into eternal darkness.

At least they have not yet made those intentions clear to us in any meaningful way.

Uh, okay. Good to know, I guess. But then why are they here?

It has recently come to our attention that a pair of campers took an unauthorized excursion to Tartarus to retrieve an allied prisoner.

Upon their return to Camp Half-Blood, one of the truant demigods was followed by a horde of cacodemons. The camper in question expressed no desire to leave these creatures outside the camp’s borders. Due to the unique status of said camper, the staff of Camp Half-Blood had little choice but to accept these terms.

Camp policy precludes us from divesting more information on this matter until a more thorough investigation can be conducted.

Oh, so this is a Nico thing?

We can neither confirm nor deny the identity of the truant camper who brought the cacodemons to camp.

However, we do believe that he is in complete and total control of these creatures. (Unless someone drops food on the floor.)

Shortly after his return, the anonymous camper disclosed that the cacodemons were crafted as “personifications of [my] negative emotions.” He also reported that close contact with them can cause great distress and instill feelings of grief, guilt, depression, anger, envy, and alienation. He then added, “At least, that’s what they did to me. If you want to try it for yourself, be my guest.”

The camper later clarified that the cacodemons pose no direct threat to him or anyone else.

So, while we cannot disclose the identity of the camper who claims responsibility for these cacodemons . . . well, you certainly don’t need the wisdom of Athena to solve that mystery.

So, like, what should we do if we see one? Kill it?

What? No! Why does your mind immediately go there?

Since when have we encouraged you to blindly attack any demon or creature that crawls out of Hades’s realm and wanders into the mortal realm?

How many times do we have to tell you? This is an inclusive environment for all beings.

You must have Camp Half-Blood confused with the other demigod camp on the opposite side of the country.

Again, if you spot a cacodemon, simply keep your distance and stay out of its path. Is that really so much to ask?

I just found one of those things gnawing on my shield. Had to kick it away. Those teeth were no joke.

Well, first, that’s not a question.

And second, sounds like someone isn’t following the proper equipment storage and maintenance procedures.

Why does it feel like you’re taking their side?

Hmm. We also wonder why it seems like we’re being more sympathetic and welcoming to our soft, adorable, harmless, and quiet little guests. Why not treat everyone as aggressive, hormonal brutes who very clearly haven’t showered in half a week?

Would that perhaps be more equitable?

“Adorable?!” These things are creepy!

Uh, that was a slip of the tongue . . .

So, are we all allowed to bring demons to camp whenever we want? Or is that a privilege only enjoyed by kids of the Big Three?

I am shocked and appalled by this unfair accusation of bias.

But the answer is still “no.”

I heard some other campers call these things Cocoa Puffs. Are . . . Are they edible?

No. Absolutely not.

And frankly, we’re greatly perturbed that you would even ask that.

We shouldn’t even have to tell you this, but please do not try to eat the cacodemons. Not even with milk. And certainly not as part of a balanced breakfast.

Must we also remind you that the consumption of a god is the highest crime you can commit against Olympus? (Seriously. They are extremely sensitive about that.)

The biggest takeaway here is this: These creatures may not look like gods, and they may not behave like gods, but be assured that they are still technically gods. Last we checked, you are only half a god.

Perhaps these cacodemons have more of a right to be on these campgrounds than you do. Maybe you should be granting them the same respect and authority you show to Mr. D.

Maybe you should be attending to their needs.

Maybe we should be more accommodating to their way of life.

Maybe you should be serving them!

Oh. Um. That’s cool. In that case, we’ll just leave them be. Thanks . . .

But just out of curiosity, where can I learn more about these intriguing Cocoa Puffs myself?

You can discover their full story in the Nico di Angelo Adventures: The Sun and the Star and The Court of the Dead from best-selling authors Rick Riordan and Mark Oshiro!