Chapter 11

The past few weeks had been awesome. Actually most of the month of December has been awesome. Okay if you can exclude the first few days where I razed the black fortress and almost got killed by Neptune this month has been great! It only took Nico and Bianca about a week to make it down to the legion and they did it through the snow like a couple of old time warriors! Nico fought his way into the first cohort where I then put my little brother in his place, and Bianca made it down to the prefect of the first cohort and lost to Reyna so it worked out well that both of my siblings were in my cohort! All children of the three really belong there anyways, but most people were just scared shitless in the fights against Nico, he used the shadows to reveal some of their fears and it was pretty freaky. But when he fought me, he knew he would have to go blade to blade with me, and it didn't work out to well for him!

As the month went on though I grew fond of my cohort and its members. We all had a great time during the war games and the fun activities leading up to the break for the holiday. Everyone was in good spirits by the time half the legion was dismissed to return home to some of their families. It had worked out perfectly this year, my father agreed to host my friends for the holiday and gave everyone a place to stay. Among them of course 4 of his kids and Reyna who was kind of like his daughter anyways, so really that only brought Jason, Piper, and Thalia in the picture.

Piper and Jason were a legit couple now and the two were pretty inseparable. It gave Thalia a great chance to tease her little brother to no end, and I always of course I helped her out! She was cocky and a to arrogant for my liking, but hey its Jason's family so I didn't mind having her around. But gods forbid if I had to live or share a camp with her for the whole year. We would probably destroy mountains and drain rivers!

My siblings and I had bonded well over the holidays, and I taught them all loads of neat tricks. The only one I regret showing Nico how to do was creating a tunnel straight to the underworld, he looked a little to giddy when I showed him that one! Other than that though my siblings and I were having the time of our lives together. It was great.

Reyna and I...Well Reyna and I have become much more complicated. I was now pretty much sure I had romantic feelings towards her and I had no idea how to tell her. I had seen no signs that she thinks of me the same way and its not worth my strong friendship to her to ruin it with my own stupidity. Of course I hadn't shared these thoughts with anyone, because I didn't want it to come out. But now I am always self conscious around her. I feel more protective of her now, and when the guys at camp flirt with her I have to steel myself over so I don't kill them in their sleep. Our friendship mentally had grown closer since she talked me out of my bounty on Neptune, we were once inseparable as it was, and now she rarely leaves my side for anything. Most would think we get tired of each other, but we don't. It is almost like she completes me these days, and without her I am missing part of me.

Little did I know though that things could change so fast.

It was Christmas eve and I was out shopping for Reyna's gift. I always tried to get all the family one nice thing this time a year. The underworld paid handsomely for bringing back souls so everyone always got a nice a little something. I used to hate Christmas, it was always sad when my mom felt horrible for not being able to get me anything nice. I always told her it was a gift just for us to be together, but it never made her feel any better about it. Then there was always Gabe who was always in particular bad mood around Christmas time, though we had no idea why.

Last Christmas though was great though. The gods don't celebrate it, but I always got my dad something and he always got me something just because everyone was in the spirits. Last year was so great though because Reyna was here and we thought it would be nice just to have a big deal Christmas. She had never had one and neither had I so it was really nice. Last year I got her a black charm bracelet and a few charms. Then for the holidays I had gotten a new charm for her as the year went on. Now that she has a few, I am looking to get her something new.

This year Reyna and I had gone shopping for everyone together and we just quietly decided we would go shopping for each other on Christmas eve. It was awesome, we had a great time picking out things for some of our friends and my siblings. Of course most of the stuff we were buying were stocking stuffers, and little stuff. Our real gifts were hand crafted or forged in the underworld!

The decision to go shopping for each other on our own had gone particularly well because there is a jeweler I met a few years ago in Eastern Texas, Wichita Falls to be exact, I saved him from Medusa she was wandering south looking for a son of Poseidon, and the poor guy ran into her. It was just lucky that I saved him. I was just in the neighborhood looking for Bonnie (as in Bonnie and Clyde), he was heading back to Dallas where he was born, damn that spirit was a wild one to. The jeweler was very grateful though, he was a son of Hermes and said if I was ever looking for jewelry when I got older he hoped he would be the first to be called. I remembered the guy as I was thinking where I was going to go get Reyna's gift. So I set out to Wichita Falls.

The shop wasn't exactly hard to find, I gave the locals his name and everyone seemed to know him. Word on the streets was he was the most rich and powerful guy around. Chris Land was the name, and making profits and deals was his game.

I walked through the door of the shop and I saw a younger gentlemen behind the counter. He didn't even raise an eyebrow when I came in he just stared at his magazine clearly unhappy about being at work on Christmas eve. I said, "I am looking for a necklace for a very special lady friend of mind, care to help me out?"

Chris just waved his hand, "Sorry kid this is a high end jewelry chain, Walmart is just a couple blocks away!"

I grinned, "Is that how you pissed off Medusa with your rude humor?"

Chris abruptly looked up, "Well look what the shadows dragged in! Perseus Jackson, my brother come give this old man a hug!"

I grinned. Chris and I had really connected a few years ago when he found out I was so close to his dad and I actually introduced the two. Chris was one of the few Greek demigods that actually grew old and became something. He puts off a pretty powerful scent so I was surprised that he wasn't bothered more regularly by monsters.

I brought Chris in for a hug, "Looking old man, is everything alright with the fam?"

Chris smiled, "Everything is great actually. You know it sucks working Christmas eve, but there is always a few last minute shoppers, I have done good business this time a year! So whats this I hear about a special lady friend of yours?"

I gave a weak smile, "Really special friend of mine, I planned on telling her how I feel tomorrow. We have been friends for a little over a year now and we were brought together in similar ways you and I were. But she has lived with me for the past year and we have really grown close. I figured when was a better time to tell her I really feel, but on a special holiday."

Chris beamed, "Then you came to the right place my friend. I have several beautiful necklaces that I can practically just give to you!"

I gave him a weak punch on the arm, "I didn't come her to bum you man, I will take a small discount, but I am all for helping you out! My father is the God of riches and he is generous when I do jobs for him in the underworld! They may be tough, but I make some good money!"

Chris' smile never wavered as he motioned me to follow him. We walked over to case of necklaces and looked at three particular ones. Chris held two behind his back while he held one in front of me. It was simple sterling silver heart necklace. It was pretty, but I was looking for something a little more special. The next one he pulled out was made of Imperial Gold, it was the same concept of the design just a simple heart necklace. I shook my head and he pulled out another, it was a pretty bronze key, it was nice, but not what I was looking for. I shook my head again. He brought out several more necklaces and nothing was fitting what I was looking for.

Chris frowned, "That's all I got man sorry. Maybe something else?"

I shook my head, "I appreciate it man, but I will go back to the drawing board on gifts! Thanks again!"

I began to walk out sadly, before Chris called after me, "Wait! I have one last one that came in a few days ago. I think this one will fit your fancy."

He walked to the back of the shop leaving me to eye the necklace's on the counter with sadness. I didn't want to fall short of my own expectations, but I don't think any of these are going to do. Suddenly Chris came out with a small black box. He held it smiling, "A woman of great power came in here the other day and just left this with me. She said someone would come for it, and when the time came I would know exactly who it was. I think she was talking about you for some reason Percy."

Chris flipped the box open and a beautiful silver necklace was there. It had a heart at the end of the chain, but that wasn't what caught my eye, it was the words on each side of the heart. On one side it said, "Semper" and on the other side it said, "Aeternum" I muttered, "Forever and always."

Chris just smiled, "This isn't just any kind of silver either here Perce, this is Olympian silver. The most rare as far as precious metals go, it is where the idea of adamantine came from. Its indestructible and very powerful. The person who left this with me, was either a God or direct descendant. I believe she wanted you to find this necklace."

I pondered on who it could've been. Proserpina? Ceres? Bellona? Bellona sure did seem the most likely, but why wouldn't she just give it to me? Why would she run the risk of me thinking of someone else. I just grinned, "How much?"

Chris gave me a small smile, "Just keep it. I didn't have to pay her for the necklace, so it wouldn't be right if I charged you!"

I grinned and reached for my back pocket and pulled out some golden drachmas, "Get your family something nice man, thank you for your help!"

Chris pulled me in for one last hug, "Merry Christmas Perce, its only because of you I am able to spend it with family. So thank you. If you are ever in the neighborhood with that girl stop by sometime I will treat the two of you to lunch!"

I beamed at my friend, "I'd like that man. You take care of yourself, I am only an iris message away if you ever need me!"

He patted me on the back and I walked into the shadows of the store going back home. Reyna would love it!

Line break

We all sat around a large Christmas tree in my living room. My father was going to join us after we all shared gifts with each other. It was our belief that Jupiter would also be stopping by at some point just to say hello and maybe drop off a few gifts to Jason and Thalia. We may be breaking a few ancient laws, but we weren't going to let that stop any of us. Not this year.

Reyna and I sat on the couch, while Piper and Jason sat on a love seat. Nico, Bianca, Thalia, and Hazel all shared the biggest couch, and we were in a formation around the tree. Lots of gifts were under there and we knew this could take some time.

I got my siblings a identical frame with a picture of all of us at the party on Olympus, and I got each of them a set of stygian iron throwing knives. They were enchanted and would always keep coming back kind of like Riptide. The knives were gifts from both Reyna and I, while we both got them something smaller other than those. I forged a shield for Jason, and had Reyna engrave it with a giant eagle on it. It was a beautiful craftsman ship and Jason was in awe that we had gotten something so nice for him. He brought Reyna and I in for a tight hug, and I knew my poor friend was going to cry if we did to much talking to him! I helped Jason forge these styigan iron ear rings that he gave Piper and she loved him for it greatly. I am sure she knew I had a hand in it, but I took no credit in it, because I gave her and Jason and large gift certificate to a restaurant one of my immortal brothers own. Piper who didn't get me anything felt a little bad, because she hadn't gotten anyone anything, but we all waved her off telling her it was no big deal. Originally we weren't sure if she would be able to come because of her dad, but he ended up blowing her off last night and Jason and I went to get her and brought her here. She seemed to be having a great time though and that was all that really mattered.

Other gifts were given and the group was more than cheery! Everyone was very grateful to Reyna and I who had also gotten everyone stocking stuffers, like candy and such. Reyna and I filled each other's because we knew all of our favorites. I had lots of blue stuff, and she had a lot of just out of the ordinary stuff, that most people wouldn't think of. For example she likes pocket knifes, I know a daughter of a war goddess likes weapons, so I went bought her lots of little switch blades and stuff at good prices. She also loves monkeys, I have no idea why she just really like monkeys so I got her a few beanie babies and a few movies that she had been wanting to watch. She was really excited by the time she was done looking through and everyone really was! I just grinned, because I was happy my friends were happy. My friends all felt a little bad that I had gone above and beyond, but I had assured them I had always wanted a family to go shopping for so I enjoyed it just as much as they did!

Everyone had opened their gift and Reyna and I had yet to give each other anything. We eyed each other knowingly and I gave her a wink. Our friends looked at us expectantly, but I just grinned standing up. I felt a presence in the shadows, "Ladies and gentlemen the god of the Underworld, our host, and my father, Lord Pluto and my mom Lady Proserpina!"

Suddenly the two popped in but they weren't the only ones. Lord Jupiter also appeared and came bringing gifts to his kids. My father smiled, "Perseus your gift is in my office and I will show you that later. It is very special this year. My wife has put together Reyna's but they are both from the two of us. Nico and Bianca already got there's and Hazel as well. So let us all be merry and just spend the day together, because isn't that what its all about!"

I pulled my dad in for a hug and he was the popular man of the day as all his kids came forward and did the same. Reyna hugged Proserpina and my father and her both looked very happy! Jupiter strolled over to us smiling, "Perseus, I have a gift for you, but I cannot give it to you just yet. There is something I must discuss with you before I leave, but first I have an announcement to everyone to make!"

Everyone quieted down as now Thanatos had come into the room as well. He looked grave, but tried not to show it. I saw right through his facade though. Jupiter cleared his voice, "To show some appreciation as well as give my brother a gift for the holidays, Neptune and I have decided, that we are going to allow my daughter to birth a child. A young Godling to forever serve the house of Pluto!"

My father looked at Jupiter in shock. He then did something that surprised us all. He walked over to Jupiter and pulled his little brother in for a hug, "Thank you brother! You have no idea how much this means to us!"

Proserpina squealed and jumped into her father's arms. They were both clearly happy, and the whole room lit up with excitement. My father was going to be able to birth a child! This was huge. We all began clapping and Jupiter smiled.

I walked over and grabbed a glass, "Allow me everyone to make a holiday toast!"

Everyone looked around for a glass of hot chocolate that was being filled by passing servants that had entered the room. When everyone had one I said, "You know I grew up without a family for the most part. I had waited my entire life for a moment like this. Where my whole family would gather around we would give and receive gifts and just be merry. I dreamed of a day like this. And now that it has come, its unlike any dream I could've ever had. A cheers to family, because isn't that what we are all really fighting for!"

A cheers went up and everyone began talking amongst themselves. Hours passed and Thanatos paced around the room anxiously. I was surprised that Jupiter and he were still here, seeing that they are so busy. Reyna was sitting next to me on the couch and she tilted her head on my shoulder. I smiled and said, "Come on let me give you my gift somewhere a little more private."

She looked at me in surprise, but nodded. I offered her my hand and she took it as I walked us out of the room and towards the dining room. It was large and empty, so it was perfect. My stomach however was in about a million knots turning out lots of butterfly's. I knew I was nervous, but man I feel like I am going to start shaking. Reyna looked at me funny, "Are you okay Percy? You don't look so good?"

I shook my head a bit and smiled at her, "Never been better in my life."

A silence went between us and I just stared into her eyes. I was looking for a true emotion, though I wasn't sure what I would find. I searched and searched, and truth be told I saw to many emotions for my mind to even comprehend. She then said, "Let me give you my gift first Percy."

I nodded as I struggled to find words. She pulled out a small interesting watch. The interesting thing about it was that it had a chimera in the center. I looked at in awe, as it looked like she had clearly crafted it herself. She was an amazing artist and I was baffled by her skill. She gave me a sheepish smile, "I thought this would always remind you of me. You know, if not for this monster we would have never met probably. I thought this watch could remind you, life could change in seconds, and nothing is set in stone."

I had a huge smile on my face as I pulled her in for a hug, "I love it Rey thank you."

She slid watch on my wrist and then clamped it down. She smiled admiring her work, "It suits you Percy!"

I grinned, "Now for your gift."

She blushed a bit and I reached in my back pocket and pulled out the black box. I reached out for her hand and put it on mine as I opened it towards her. Her eyes lit up as she saw the necklace, "Percy its so beautiful. It must have costed you a small fortune."

I waved her off not wanting to tell her how I came across it. She held it up and then read the words forever and always. I heard her whisper it under her breath. Her eyes filled up with tears and launched herself into my arms. I held her tightly not ever wanting to let go. We stayed like this for a moment and she sniffled, "Thank you Percy, this is the nicest gift I have ever had."

I smiled and felt my heart churned as I prepared to poor it out, "Rey, the necklace it means more to me than what might meet your eye."

She looked at me confused, and I began to explain, "Rey I've been trying to find a way to tell you this. Its been quite an emotional rollar coaster for me, but I lo-"

Suddenly a deep voice came in the room, "Perseus sorry to interrupt, but Lord Jupiter and I need you at once."

I looked at Thanatos exasperated, "Cannot it not wait five minutes?"

Thanatos glared at me, "No it cannot. Perseus this is of the up most importance."

I sighed and Reyna just smiled at me, "Go, you can tell me about it later."

I looked at her sadly. My perfect moment, had been ruined. I nodded sadly and walked out of the room. Thanatos immediately turned and I followed him. I growled, "This better be good Thanatos I was in the middle of something important!"

Thanatos gave me a grave look, "It is very important."

I gave him a suspicious look and followed him with no more questions. We went into my father's study surprised not to see my father, but Jupiter standing by a map. A map of Tartarus.

When I entered the room Jupiter said, "Shut the door Thanatos."

Thanatos did as he was told and stood guard by the door. I gave a stiff bow to Jupiter, "My lord, I hope your request held much importance."

Jupiter turned around to face me, "I am afraid it is."

I sighed and nodded patiently. Jupiter said, "Perhaps you should a take a seat."

I shook my head, "I will stand if its all the same to you."

Jupiter just nodded as he eyed Thanatos... Nervously? Or was it sadly? I couldn't really read the God of the skies at this moment. He suddenly spat out, "Your step father has been freed from his punishment."

My heart surged and I could feel my eyes pulse with dark black energy and power. I growled whirling on Thanatos, "How? When?"

Thanatos sighed, "I don't know. I was just going by his usual spot and realized he was missing. I like to check on him at least once a week, knowing that he was a true monster, so when I checked he was gone!"

The office began to shake a bit, I barked, "Then someone go find him! Or better yet, give me an idea where he is and I will go find him!"

Jupiter frowned, "You are still in the presence of gods Perseus, please mind your tongue."

I shot Jupiter a look and shadows shot out of the ground furiously. If looks could kill Jupiter would be sliced into thousands of pieces just like his father, "You are in the wrong place to be telling me to watch my mouth. You are in my domain, and your powers are useless here. I am your equal down here, God or not, I do not care."

Jupiter's eyes widened and he drew his bolt, I growled, "Fire that bolt at me, and I will see to it that your throne is toppled next."

Jupiter's eyes widened and he level the bolt at me before Thanatos intervened, "Jupiter, put it down. I warned you that he would react this way. The boy is in a considerable amount of pain. Now your promised to handle this well, and so for I am not to impressed."

Jupiter shook his head sadly, "You are right, I am sorry Perseus. We are working on his location right now."

I walked over to my fathers desk. Then I walked over to a bare wall. I then began pacing around the room as two immortals eyed me warily. I then made it back over to the bare wall and my anger was now uncontrollable, I took my fist and slammed it through the dark brick wall. Pieces of the brick broke off and I screamed, "How could this happen?!"

I looked at Thanatos, "Who is causing this? Who is allowing souls to be let out? You have to at least have a suspicion?"

Thanatos looked at me with concern, "Of course I have suspicions, but they could all be wrong. I honestly don't know Perseus. Please calm yourself!"

I started pacing a bit faster now. I was seething on the inside, but on the outside I just kept an emotionless facade. I then stopped, "Why couldn't this wait till tomorrow? This was supposed to be such a happy day, and now its ruined."

Thanatos and Jupiter looked at me sadly, "We didn't want you to be mad, because we didn't tell you right away. We believe it happened sometime in the last few days, possibly even as early as last night. Thanatos and Charon have scoured their domains and he is no where to be found."

I sighed, "Then the only reason you would come to me with this is if you wanted me to find him or you want me to go kill him."

Jupiter sighed, "Believe me when I was approached with the problem I had half a mind to find a different hunter. I believe this is to personal for you Perseus, and as a Roman personal things and missions are supposed to never cross paths. However, you are the only one qualified to handle something like this. If Gabe had help escaping then the Titans are planning to use him as a weapon against you I believe. You have no idea how desperate they can be."

I groaned, "I will go find him now...And Jupiter, please if I am to do this I am not a hunter, Ego Ultor."

Before either one of them could protest I darted into the shadows disappearing.

(A/N) The number of reviews last chapter was disturbingly low. But here is the update that I owed you guys! The next chapter, is why you all find out why Perseus needs to be so powerful. In the 5 years of FanFiction reading, I have never seen something like this so I believe my idea is original! I look forward to your feedback on this chapter and the next chapter! We are up to 30 reviews now, so if we hit that number I will update tomorrow the second the 30th review hits my phone :)!

My sincerest Apologies for updating the wrong story! Chapter 11 for Bane of Olympus was posted instead of Chapter 11 for the Roman Avenger! Forgive me!